Moe Bergeron

In a world where religious affiliation often serves as a cultural identifier, the distinction between being "Christianized" and being "born of God" is of utmost importance. While the former can involve adopting the outward forms of Christianity, the latter speaks to a profound inward transformation that only God can accomplish. Understanding this difference is crucial for anyone seeking a genuine relationship with God rather than merely practicing a religion.

Christianized: A Religion of Form

To be Christianized typically means that someone has adopted the customs, beliefs, and practices associated with Christianity. This can include attending church, participating in religious rituals, and even embracing certain moral standards. Many people grow up in Christian homes or societies where Christian values are prevalent, and as a result, they may identify as Christians.

However, Jesus Himself warned against mistaking external adherence for true faith. In Matthew 15:8, He quotes the prophet Isaiah: "These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me" (BSB). This statement reveals the danger of a religion that is only skin-deep, where the heart remains untouched by God's transforming grace. It's possible to be immersed in Christian culture-to be Christianized-without ever experiencing the life-changing power of the gospel.

In the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23), Jesus describes different responses to the Word of God. Some seed falls on rocky or thorny ground, representing those who hear the Word and may initially receive it with joy but eventually fall away because their faith lacks depth. These individuals might be Christianized-they know the language, the rituals, and the expectations— but their connection to Christ is superficial, not rooted in a deep, living relationship with Him.

Born of God: A Transformation of Life

Being "born of God," on the other hand, signifies a radical transformation that begins in the heart and flows outward into every aspect of life. Jesus explained this concept to Nicodemus, a Pharisee, in John 3:3: "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (BSB). This new birth is not something we achieve through religious practices or moral effort; it is a work of the Holy Spirit, a divine rebirth that changes our very nature.

Born of God: A Transformation of Life

Being "born of God," on the other hand, signifies a radical transformation that begins in the heart and flows outward into every aspect of life. Jesus explained this concept to Nicodemus, a Pharisee, in John 3:3: "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (BSB). This new birth is not something we achieve through religious practices or moral effort; it is a work of the Holy Spirit, a divine rebirth that changes our very nature.

When someone is born of God, their identity is no longer rooted in cultural Christianity or religious duty. Instead, it is anchored in Christ Himself. Paul captures this truth in 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" (BSB). This new creation is characterized by a transformed heart, renewed desires, and a life that increasingly reflects the character of Christ.

The evidence of being born of God is seen in the fruit of the Spirit-love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These are not mere behaviors to be adopted but the natural outgrowth of a life that is connected to the vine, Jesus Christ (John 15:5). Such a life is marked by a deep love for God and others, a hunger for His Word, and a desire to obey His commands out of gratitude and reverence, not obligation.

The Critical Distinction

The distinction between being Christianized and being born of God is the difference between religion and relationship, between external conformity and internal transformation. Religion can make a person outwardly moral and respectable, but only being born of God can make a person spiritually alive.

Jesus' warning in Matthew 7:21-23 is sobering: "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!'" (BSB). These are people who were likely Christianized, who did religious things in Jesus' name, but were never truly born of God. Their lack of a genuine relationship with Christ is evident in their ultimate rejection.

A Call to Examine the Heart

This difference calls each of us to examine our own hearts. Are we merely Christianized, going through the motions of religion, or have we been born of God, experiencing the profound change that comes from a genuine encounter with Christ? True Christianity is not about checking boxes or fitting into a religious mold; it's about knowing and being known by God, walking in the newness of life that only He can give.

Being born of God leads to a life of joyful obedience, rooted in love for the Savior who gave His life for us. It is a life that stands firm, not because of our own strength, but because it is built on the solid rock of Christ Himself. This is the heart of the gospel-a message of transformation, not mere tradition; of new life, not just religious lifestyle.

May we seek to be more than Christianized. May we seek to be born of God, truly alive in Christ, and growing daily in His grace and truth.

"Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’" Matthew 7:21-23