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Concluding Thoughts

This book was not written attempting to convince everyone to follow a path of radical Christianity. However, for those being stirred or led to grow deeper in their faith, it can be a helpful resource to understand some of the difficulties that may be encountered.

Some may have been offended by the strong description of denominations. However, if we apply biblical measurement criteria (people becoming Christ-like) to churches, would there be any that could hold their head high.

It has been said that the two most productive areas in which to tell people about Jesus are hospitals and prisons. The two least productive areas might be country clubs and night clubs. Maturing in truth allows one to see past the superficial things of this world to things of eternal value.

There are endless 'Christian' teachers who would tell you what you should do. However, Christianity is less about us doing and more about God working through us. The radical Christian is encouraged to grow in bible knowledge and discernment so that he can avoid the fruitless paths some would direct him towards, and rather be led by the Spirit of God.

Many, perhaps most, other Christians will not understand the desire of a radical Christian to dig deeper and draw nearer to God. Some may actively oppose your seeking and questioning. Nothing is to be gained from arguing with those who follow a different path. Rather those few you encounter who also seek are a rare and treasured encounter.

Jesus told Pilate that those who were 'of the truth' would hear his voice. This is because Jesus is truth and his words are truth. This is the resonance that helps the radical Christian sift through all of that which is called 'Christian' to find the occasional 'nugget' of truth that he can retain.

Like a prospector, the radical Christian searches for that which is of value. He may scour books, videos, tape messages, sermons, or any source of teaching or exposition that would help him grow in understanding the bible and drawing nearer to God. As he matures, the radical Christian grows in discernment and can avoid taking in the 'fool's gold' of that which is not of the truth or love. The time to seek the Lord is too precious to waste in arguments.

Many wars have been fought and lives lost as 'Christians' have disputed regarding various doctrines over the centuries. While the radical Muslim may wish to kill those with whom he disagrees, the radical Christian rather seeks those from whom he can learn. If the reader has made it this far, he has probably gotten past a common Christian reflex of blasting anything with which he disagrees. This type of 'bunker' mentality is common in those who have not matured.

They often see allegiance to a group or brand as 'faithfulness' rather than striving for Christ-likeness. They may see themselves on the defensive or as Christian 'warriors' to combat error. Sadly many Christian fall into the trap of self-righteousness. One of the symptoms of this condition is smugness and contempt for others.

In a way, one can see Christianity as under attack in the world today. However, the battle is the Lords, not ours. The goal of radical Christianity is to draw nearer our Lord and Savior, to be filled with the love and truth that is in Jesus, and having matured to bear fruit in service and ministry to others.

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. - John 15:8-9

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