In modern America, the term “Christian” has become increasingly fluid—so much so that it often says more about cultural affiliation than actual belief in the supernatural claims of the Bible. From Christmas festivities to church attendance, many Americans participate in traditions rooted in Christianity without embracing the core tenets of the faith. But what does it really mean to be a Christian, and how can we tell the difference between cultural Christianity and authentic faith in the risen Son of God?
A Christian Nation?
Surveys often suggest that the majority of Americans identify as Christian. But this identification is often superficial. A person may wear a cross, go to church on Christmas and Easter, and even claim moral values inspired by the Bible—all while denying or ignoring the supernatural essence of the Gospel. The problem is not new. Even infamous figures like David Duke have claimed the label “Christian” while promoting racism and hatred, values completely antithetical to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
This confusion arises because “Christianity” in America has long been entangled with nationalism, sentimentality, and holiday traditions rather than centered on the call to “take up your cross and follow Me.” Many embrace Christian customs—such as gift-giving at Christmas or Sunday church attendance—without ever encountering the resurrected Lord or understanding the radical nature of His message.
The Hollow Traditions
Cultural Christianity expresses itself through symbols and rituals devoid of transformative power. Consider Halloween: a celebration steeped in imagery of witches and warlocks, which many self-proclaimed Christians participate in despite the Bible’s clear condemnation of witchcraft and sorcery. Likewise, the tale of Santa Claus climbing down chimneys to reward children’s behavior may entertain young minds, but it has no foundation in Scripture and perpetuates a falsehood that blurs the line between fantasy and faith.
These traditions have become so ingrained in American life that even atheists may participate in them, while genuine followers of Christ are often viewed as fringe or extreme for believing in miracles, the Holy Spirit, or the authority of Scripture.
The Problem with Popular Preachers
The issue is compounded by religious leaders who represent Christianity in name but deny its power. A prominent example is John MacArthur, a respected Calvinist preacher who publicly rejects the present-day operation of the Holy Spirit. Though he professes faith in the Bible, MacArthur dismisses speaking in tongues, healing, and other supernatural gifts as relics of the past. In doing so, he strips Christianity of its spiritual dynamism and replaces it with a rigid theology grounded in the Reformation’s man-made doctrines—especially the teachings of Jehan Cauvin, better known as John Calvin.
Calvin, a controversial figure in church history, is known not only for his theological innovations but also for his role in the execution of dissenters. Yet Calvinists today, including MacArthur, justify this past while preaching doctrines that present God as the author of evil, contrary to Scripture’s testimony that God created all things good.
MacArthur and others like him may read the Bible, but they do not know the living Christ. Their faith is intellectual and doctrinal, not relational or spiritual. By preaching against the supernatural and rejecting the manifest power of the Holy Spirit, they effectively neuter the Gospel and encourage others to become cultural Christians—content with outward observance but lacking inward transformation.
Slavery vs. Sonship
MacArthur often uses the metaphor that Christians are “slaves of Christ.” While Scripture acknowledges that metaphor in places, the overall message of the New Testament is one of liberation and adoption. We are not called to remain in bondage, but to become sons and daughters of God.
“The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever.” (John 8:35)
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)
True Christianity is not about blind obedience to dogma or tradition, but about walking in the freedom, love, and power of the Holy Spirit. As Paul writes, we were called to freedom—not to indulge the flesh, but to serve one another through love (Galatians 5:13).
Knowledge Without Relationship
One of the great tragedies of cultural Christianity is the assumption that knowing about God is the same as knowing God. But the Bible teaches that even demons believe—and tremble. Intellectual agreement with doctrinal statements is not salvation. Salvation comes through repentance, personal faith in the finished work of Christ, and receiving the Holy Spirit.
Cultural Christians may know Bible stories, recite prayers, and even defend Christian ethics, but if they have not encountered the risen Lord Jesus Christ, they remain spiritually dead. They are like the Pharisees, whom Jesus rebuked for diligently studying the Scriptures while refusing to come to Him for life (John 5:39–40).
The Hope for Cultural Christians
The good news is that God is merciful. He does not overlook ignorance, and His grace extends even to those caught in cultural Christianity. Many people who participate in Christian traditions without understanding their spiritual meaning may, at some point, encounter a moment of clarity—a crisis, a testimony, or a whisper of conviction—that opens their heart to the truth.
The sacrifice of Jesus Christ was made for all. His death paid for every sin, and His resurrection guarantees the hope of eternal life for those who repent and believe. Some cultural Christians may find salvation on their deathbed; others may never have the chance. This is why the Bible urges us to seek the Lord while He may be found.
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2)
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