Jonathan Edwards explains, “A true and faithful Christian does not make holy living an accidental thing. It is his great concern. As the business of the soldier is to fight, so the business of the Christian is to be like Christ.” There are three hallmarks of being a faithful Christian.

First, a faithful Christian pledges allegiance to Jesus. This is the issue of Lordship. 2 Corinthians 4:5 reads, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.” Philippians 2:9-11 reads, “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” In Luke 6:46, Jesus pointedly asks, “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” Are you yielding to Jesus?

Second, a faithful Christian pays attention to Jesus. This is the issue of Discipleship. Matthew 28:18-20 reads, “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.” A disciple is a learner. Matthew 11:28-30 reads, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Are you yoking with Jesus?

Third, a faithful Christian practices accountability to Jesus. This is the issue of Stewardship. Jesus gave the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 to teach you stewardship and accountability for the responsible use of your gifts and resources. Luke 12:48b reads, “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” Daniel Webster was asked, “What is the greatest thought that has ever passed through your mind?” He replied, “My accountability to Almighty God.” Hebrews 4:13 reads, “And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” Are you yearning for Jesus?

Proverbs 20:6 reads, “Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man?” In these days of fake Christians, let me encourage you, by the grace of God to be a faithful Christian.

Dr. Franklin L. Kirksey, of Robertsdale, is the author of "Don't Miss the Revival! Messages for Revival and Spiritual Awakening from Isaiah.