Don't Let Failed Christians Keep You From Christ

By Billy Graham, Christian Post Guest Columnist Saturday, November 26, 2011

Q: The best person I know also happens to be an atheist. How do you explain that, since it's Christians who are supposed to be kind and good? If I needed anything, she'd be the first person I'd go to. She's a lot more thoughtful than most of the so-called "Christians" I know. -- J.S.S.

A: I certainly agree with one thing you say: Christians are supposed to be kind and good. Jesus said, "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16).

When they aren't kind and good, it's because they've fallen short of what Jesus wants them to be. Jesus commanded us to follow Him and obey Him -- and when we do, we'll become like Him in our love for others and our moral integrity. A person who claims to be a Christian but is selfish and thoughtless may not be a Christian at all. The Bible says that when we truly follow Christ, we will be "pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere" (James 3:17).

Can people who don't believe in Jesus (or may even be atheists like your friend) also be kind and good? Yes, of course they can. Although they don't realize it or believe it, God created them, and He implanted within them something of His goodness and love. At the same time, they'd be even better people if they opened their lives to Christ's transforming power.

Don't let the bad example of a few who claim to be Christians but aren't really following Jesus keep you away from Him. God loves you, and He alone can take away your sins and give you hope for the future. Commit your life to Jesus Christ, and discover the joy of following Him every day.

Affectionately known as the "World's Preacher" for more than 60 years, the Rev. Billy Graham is one of the most influential and respected spiritual leaders of the 20th century. He has been a friend and spiritual advisor to ten American presidents and has preached the Gospel to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history - nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories - through various meetings. Hundreds of millions more have been reached through television, video, film, and webcasts. Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.