Too often Christians begin to view each other as exactly the same. Falling easily into a mindset that says everyone should pray, speak, praise, and live in the exact same way. Creating a cookie-cutter version of our faith. In which every person who comes in is to receive the same shape we have received.
It is worth noting that this article in no way is speaking of very the clear teaching of scripture. Which tells us exactly what we are to believe and how we are supposed to live out those beliefs. For instance, the Bible tells us clearly that there is one faith, one Lord, one baptism. In the same vain we are not able to create or alter the plan of salvation but must follow that displayed in scripture. So in regards to what every Christian is expected to believe that could be described as cookie-cutter.
Ephesians 4:4–6 (ESV)
4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Acts 2:38 (ESV)
38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
But that’s not what we are really here to talk about in this article. Christians must ensure that they do not believe that in order to come to Jesus everyone has become the same. The truth of the matter is God Himself created us all to be different. So the way in which our faith manifests itself will defer. Just like we see displayed in scripture. We do not all serve God in the same way but must serve according to our individual gifting.
1 Peter 4:10–11 (ESV)
10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Our way of serving God is not the only way in which we as Christians can and will differ. While we are instructed to spend time in the Word, pray, worship, and share the Gospel. That does not mean that each of us must do those things in the exact same manner. It’s important that we escape the cookie-cutter mindset and fulfill the call of scripture in a way that works for us best.
Not always looking to imitate the ways that are working for others around us. But through trial and error finding our own way. Because when we imitate another and do not obtain the same results it can cause us to stop trying. Instead, we must at times break the mold and find our own way. Always making sure that our way stays within the confines of scripture.
Just because the methods may not look the same does not change the meaning of what we are doing. For instance, one person may choose to heavily mark in their Bible because doing so helps them to study. But another may never mark a page and simply read the word. The methods defer but the results are the same the scripture is being read as it is meant to be.
Joshua 1:8 (ESV)
8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.
2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV)
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
Or take the ways in which we praise God. One may jump and shout while another lifts hands and cries. Each worshiping God in a different way but both pouring their heart out to the Lord. Which is what the scripture is really telling us all to do in whatever way we know-how.
Psalm 86:2 (ESV)
2 Preserve my life, for I am godly;
save your servant, who trusts in you—you are my God.
So chose to break free of the cookie-cutter mindset. No longer trying to imitate the ways of another but find the way of fulfilling the instructions of the Bible that work for you. Meaning that you actually read, pray, worship, and share the gospel as a part of your daily life.
Also, be sure that you do not become a part of furthering the cookie-cutter mindset. It’s great to guide new Christians on their walk with God. Sharing with them the things that have worked for you. But always be sure to leave the door open for them to do things in their own way. Your way is right for you but that doesn’t mean it will be right for them. It is better for them to find their own way and follow scripture. Then to feel forced to do something your way and as a result, never do it.
We hope that you are able to see that Christianity is not cookie-cutter when it comes to how we live out our faith. Each individual believer is able to follow the scripture in whatever way works best for them. As long as it does not go beyond the bounds of the Bible.
We hope you will apply this in your life. Please share this article on social media if you found it helpful. So that we can help even more people. Thanks and God Bless!
Visit Justin’s personal website Here. Or see articles from other writers we feature Here. Also, be sure to stop by our prayer wall.