Carnal Christians?

How does a pastor deal with “Carnal Christians” in his church?

Scripture addresses those who belong to Christ, and those who do not.  There are those who possess the Spirit of God, and those who do not.  But, is there a 3rd category?  Many, especially in certain circles in American Evangelicalism, would claim there is a 3rd category commonly labeled a “Carnal Christian” or a “Nominal Christian.”  This 3rd category is described as those who profess to know and follow Christ, but whose life does not reflect it.  They would claim to follow Christ just enough to escape hell, but not enough for Christ to affect any aspect of their life.  Some feel God is obligated to present a “get out of hell free card” as a result of a one time decision long ago that involved praying a prayer, or walking an aisle.  The most common proof text for this position is found in 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 and the way Paul addresses the Christians there in the Corinthian Church.

Paul is not writing to the Corinthian church affirming there is this middle category of a Christian, but writes in this way to confront the clear sin in their midst that forces Paul to address them as immature in their faith.

How do we deal with those who profess Christ, but whose lives do not reflect it in our church?

Read the entire article from Pastor Brian Croft HERE.