The Distinction Between Christians and Bible Believing Christians: A Comprehensive Analysis

Understanding the distinctions between Christians and Bible believing Christians has been a subject of debate and discussion for many years. This article will explore the key differences, providing insights based on both personal experiences and scholarly perspectives.

Defining Christians

Christianity, in its broader sense, includes a wide range of individuals. They may practice Christianity within various denominations or go solo, following some form of religious practice. The term 'Christian' [1] encompasses those who follow the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ as outlined in the Bible, regardless of their specific denomination.

The Core of Bible Believing Christians

Bible believing Christians are distinguished by their unwavering commitment to applying biblical principles and precepts to all aspects of their lives. They are more likely to interpret and follow the Bible's commands literally, even when it comes to areas not explicitly covered. Their actions are rooted in a deep belief in the authority and clarity of Scripture, an attribute that often sets them apart from less literal Christian interpretations.

Experiences with Bible Believing Christians

From personal and anecdotal experiences, it appears that Bible believing Christians, particularly those from American fundamentalist and evangelical backgrounds, have a narrow view of what constitutes true Christianity. These individuals often present their form of Christianity as the 2only correct form, excludes others from the term 'Christian,' especially those within the Catholic tradition. They frequently redefine the term 'Christian' to include only those who share their specific belief systems.

These experiences highlight how some Bible believing Christians are less knowledgeable about the myriad practices, theologies, and histories of other Christian denominations. Their ignorance is often compounded by a tendency to believe in various anti-Catholic conspiracy theories. For instance, some may believe in wild and unfounded ideas such as the Pope being the Antichrist, or the Catholic Church being the 'Whore of Babylon.'

Commonalities Among Christians

Conversely, there is a universal truth that a person cannot claim to be a Christian without acknowledging the Bible as a central text. Both Christians and Bible believing Christians share a fundamental belief that one must believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their Son, as He is the cornerstone of the Christian faith described in the Bible. There is a commonality in the core belief of faith in Jesus Christ, which is the foundation for all Christian practices and doctrines.

Liberal Christians vs. Fundamentalist Evangelicals

It's important to note that among Christians, there are varying degrees of interpretation and application of biblical teachings. Some Christians, often referred to as liberal Christians, may hold more flexible and contextually-driven beliefs. They are less likely to confront others with their sense of righteousness and instead may prioritize harmony and understanding.

In contrast, fundamentalist evangelicals, who are often Bible believing Christians, tend to be more dogmatic and less tolerant of other interpretations. They may be more vocal about their beliefs and seek to convert or correct those who do not align with their views. This can lead to a more confrontational approach to Christian practice and belief.

Conclusion

While there are significant differences between Christians and Bible believing Christians, the core of both groups remains the belief in Jesus Christ as described in the Bible. The real distinctions lie in the application of those beliefs, the level of adherence to biblical principles, and the degree of openness to diversity within the Christian faith. Understanding these differences can help foster dialogue and mutual respect among believers of all denominations.

Note: This article presents a broad overview of experiences and perspectives. Personal beliefs and experiences may vary, and it is always beneficial to seek out a variety of perspectives to gain a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.

1 [1] Christian: A person who follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and believes in Him as the Son of God.

2 [2] Fundamentalist evangelical: A term often used to describe Christians who strictly adhere to the literal interpretation of the Bible and consider their form of Christianity as the only true path.

Keywords: christians, bible believing christians, fundamentalist evangelical.