21 Apr Authenticity
What comes to mind when you hear the word “authentic?”
For some, the word may be associated with a list of synonyms such as real, true or genuine or some may equate it with being transparent or vulnerable. Others may think of it as simply anything opposite of fake or phony. If you are looking at artwork, authentic refers to something that is original and not an imitation. If you are looking for authentic food you are most likely searching for dishes that are native to the area in which they originate and preferably prepared by someone from that location. Bottom line, is that although we may all agree on a basic overall definition of authentic, the meaning is highly dependent on the context.
With that said, what does it mean to be an authentic person? In particular, what does it mean to be an authentic Christian? Below are a few things to consider.
Authentic Christians:
- Stay true to their faith and beliefs. Authentic Christians don’t tweak their beliefs based on where they are or who they are with. Their beliefs are unapologetically shaped by the Word of God.
- Stay true to their core identity. Authentic Christians know who they are and whose they are. They know that they have a God-given purpose so they strive to become all that God created them to be based on the inherent attributes and strengths that God has already placed in them.
- Stay true to their native origin. Authentic Christians know that they are not of the world. They seek to please God and not people; to live by the Spirit and not by the flesh.
- Stay true to their spiritual lineage. Authentic Christians not only wear bracelets saying WWJD, but they live it. Their goal is to become more and more like Jesus. Jesus exemplifies love, forgiveness and inclusion so they strive to do the same.
What does authentic mean to you?
Nancy E. Head
Posted at 08:13h, 27 AprilAuthentic, for me, means all that you’ve stated–plus a transparency that lets others see our struggles–and helps them feel safe sharing their own challenges.
Candice Brown
Posted at 08:19h, 27 AprilLove this! I’ve been practicing authenticity in my walk; was forced to do so in a season of grief when performing for others became impossible. It has revolutionized my faith. Thanks for this inspired article; wonderful advice.
Anne Mackie Morelli
Posted at 13:18h, 27 AprilWhat a great reminder that we are called to live authentic lives – ones which have Jesus at the center, where we stay true to who we were created to be, where we follow and obey his expectations for us in loving, forgiving, including and serving others.
Stephen Lewis
Posted at 15:25h, 27 AprilA-Men a powerful Self Check Message, thank you so much for this powerful short message!!
Beth Bingaman
Posted at 14:15h, 28 AprilThis is something I have been thinking a lot about lately. I appreciate all that you have said here. Thanks.
Julie
Posted at 08:34h, 29 AprilI was just talking to my son about this this morning! Thank you for reinforcing it!
Ava Pennington
Posted at 17:02h, 29 AprilYes, authenticity also includes transparency, as Nancy noted.
We don’t speak from the “mountaintop,” but rather as fellow travelers on the same journey.
Melissa Henderson
Posted at 06:47h, 30 AprilFor me, authentic means being honest with myself and others.
Jessica Brodie
Posted at 07:01h, 30 AprilGreat message. I’m focusing currently on what you pointed out: “Authentic Christians know that they are not of the world. They seek to please God and not people; to live by the Spirit and not by the flesh.” Thanks for the encouragement!
Lisa Murray
Posted at 07:58h, 30 AprilThoughtful post! I especially love the words, “Authentic Christians don’t tweak their beliefs based on where they are or who they are with. Their beliefs are unapologetically shaped by the Word of God.” I wrote a post this week about sex and dating, and this is the heart of the message for Believers everywhere. Blessings to you.
Yvonne Morgan
Posted at 08:54h, 01 MayI have found that not being authentic will drive others away very quickly. When sharing the gospel, others want to know the real you and the real struggles we face daily. God calls us to be real and transparent so the world sees Him
Afi Pittman
Posted at 10:46h, 03 MayI think authentic in this context can also mean that you’re aware of when you are not living like you should. And instead of trying to act as if you always measure up, owning up to when you deviate.