At Youth Camp a couple of weeks ago, Dave Ward shared a message in the middle of the week asking this question:
Are you a practicing Christian? Or a cultural Christian?
This message seemed like the one that got everyone really thinking and assessing their Christian life. Here are Dave Ward’s categories, or list, of what it looks like to be a “practicing” Christian.
Note: This list is not exhaustive, nor is it the Gospel. It is a synopsis of sorts to help one assess whether or not they are a Christian who is engaging in the practices Jesus commanded and promised.
Practices of Devotion | Individual
- Private prayer
- Reading the Scriptures
- Fasting
- Healthy living
- Sharing your faith
Practices of Devotion | Communal
- Communion
- Baptism
- Family and Church-wide prayer
- Christian conversation
- Attending public worship
Practices of Compassion | Individual
- Visiting the sick and imprisoned
- Serving the needs of the poor
- Earn, save, give generously
- Caring for the uncared for (orphans and widows)
- Hospitality
- Forgiveness and reconciliation
Practices of Compassion | Communal
- Opposing injustice
- Fighting oppression
