Why Discernment Matters in a World of False Christs
Introduction: The Warning About False Christs
If you’ve spent any time reading the Bible, you’ve probably come across warnings about “false Christs” and “false prophets.” It’s easy to think these warnings only apply to people outside the church, like cult leaders or strange movements far removed from our everyday lives. But what if the greatest danger isn’t just out there, but also within our own communities—even within our own hearts? Today, let’s talk honestly about how the Christ we follow might not always be the true Christ of God, but sometimes a version shaped by our desires or cultural expectations.
False Christs from Within: Spiritual Dangers Inside the Church
When we hear about “false Christs,” we often imagine dramatic impostors or misleading teachings from outside the church. However, the Bible’s warning is much broader. Sometimes, the most subtle danger is when the image of Christ gets distorted right where we worship, pray, and serve. This can happen when church communities—often with good intentions—start to focus more on what’s popular, comfortable, or personally appealing than on what’s true and holy. Without realizing it, we might begin following a “Christ” who fits our preferences, rather than the Savior who calls us to transformation.
Who Are We Following?: The Risk of a Christ Shaped by Personal Desires
It’s worth asking: Who is the Christ we’re following? Is He the genuine Son of God who challenges us, loves us, and leads us toward holiness? Or have we unintentionally re-imagined Him as someone who exists mainly to support our ambitions, affirm our choices, and make our lives easier? It’s a sobering thought, but sometimes our personal desires or the pressures of society can shape our understanding of Jesus. We might prefer a Christ who never confronts us, who always agrees with us, and who promises success and comfort with little sacrifice. But this isn’t the Christ revealed in Scripture.
Modern Misrepresentations: Christ as a Tool for Personal Gain
Look around, and you’ll notice that many modern portrayals of Jesus lean heavily into the idea that He’s here to help us achieve our dreams. Social media, popular books, and even some sermons can paint a picture of Jesus as a sort of spiritual life coach or a genie who exists to grant our wishes. While it’s true that Christ cares deeply for us, His mission was never about serving personal ambition. When we turn Him into a mascot for our own goals, we miss the heart of His message and the depth of His love. This false portrayal can lead us away from true faith and into disappointment, confusion, or even spiritual emptiness.
The True Purpose of Christ: Redemption, Holiness, and Restoration
Jesus didn’t come just to make us comfortable or successful; He came to redeem us, restore us, and invite us into a new life marked by holiness. Real redemption isn’t about getting what we want—it’s about being transformed into who God created us to be. Christ’s sacrifice wasn’t for selfish gain, but for reconciliation with God and the restoration of His image in us. When we embrace this truth, we find that following Jesus isn’t always easy or convenient, but it is deeply fulfilling and eternally significant.
The Sovereignty of God: Christ’s True Lordship vs. Convenient Faith
At the heart of genuine Christianity is the recognition of God’s sovereignty and Christ’s lordship. This means surrendering our desires, ambitions, and preferences to the One who knows us best and loves us most. A convenient faith—a faith that follows Jesus only when it’s easy or aligns with our plans—misses the point. The real Christ calls us to trust Him fully, to let Him lead even when it’s uncomfortable, and to seek His will above our own. This kind of faith isn’t always popular, but it’s the path to true life and lasting joy.
Conclusion: A Call to Discernment and Genuine Faith
In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to ask ourselves: Are we following the true Christ, or a version molded by our own desires and culture? Let’s be people who seek truth, who are willing to be challenged, and who embrace the Christ who redeems, restores, and reigns. By doing so, we honor God’s sovereignty and experience the fullness of faith He offers. Discernment isn’t just for theologians—it’s for all of us who want our lives to reflect the real Jesus.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 