You know, in our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in appearances. Whether it’s our social media profiles, the cars we drive, or even the way we practice our faith, there’s often a temptation to present a polished, perfect version of ourselves. But as Christians, we need to ask ourselves: Are we living a genuine faith, or are we just putting on a “plastic” facade? This article explores the difference between real, deep-rooted Christianity and a superficial, “plastic” version that looks good on the outside but lacks true substance.
The Process vs. The Product
Let’s kick things off with a story from my childhood. Back in Louisiana, my dad once showed me a cotton plant just breaking through the soil. It was a tiny thing, yet it could lift a chunk of earth many times its weight. My dad said, “This shows the mighty power of God.” That simple moment stuck with me because it taught me that real growth—whether in plants or in our spiritual lives—is a process. Just like that cotton plant, our faith needs to develop strength and resilience over time. Unfortunately, many of us get caught up in the end product, focusing on looking like good Christians rather than actually growing in Christ.
This idea is similar to what I experience as an architect. When designing a building, it’s tempting to focus solely on the final product. But real quality comes from a comprehensive process that considers the client’s needs and the building’s purpose. Likewise, in our Christian walk, the process—our daily choices, our struggles, and our growth—is just as important as the end goal of being like Christ. The Bible emphasizes this in 1 Samuel 16:7, where God tells Samuel, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” God cares about our motives and the process of becoming more like Him, not just the finished product we present to the world.
Truth vs. Style
Another big issue is the difference between truth and style. In architecture, there’s always a temptation to go with what’s trendy or stylish. But real, lasting designs are based on solid principles, not fleeting fashions. The same goes for our faith. Many people get caught up in the superficial aspects of Christianity—wearing a cross necklace, putting a bumper sticker on their car, or even joining a church because it’s the “in” thing to do. But these outward symbols mean nothing if they don’t reflect an inward reality.
James 1:22–25 warns us not to be like people who look in a mirror and then forget what they look like. This passage challenges us to examine our lives in the light of God’s Word, the true mirror, and make changes accordingly. It’s easy to deceive ourselves, thinking we’re spiritually healthy because we do all the “right” things. But God calls us to a deeper, more authentic faith that goes beyond mere appearances. Real Christianity isn’t about looking good; it’s about being transformed from the inside out, even when that transformation is uncomfortable or inconvenient.
Freedom and Responsibility
Now, let’s talk about freedom in Christ. We often hear about the freedom we have as believers, but with that freedom comes great responsibility. Think about it like this: In modern office design, the “open-office landscape” concept offers great flexibility. But without clear guidelines and personal responsibility, that flexibility can lead to chaos. Similarly, our freedom in Christ isn’t a license to do whatever we want. It requires us to be responsible in our actions and words.
As a young Christian, I thought I could say anything because no one was really listening. But as I matured, I realized that people were paying attention, and I had to be more careful with my words. The same goes for our actions. It’s easy to follow a set of rules, but living under God’s grace means we’re called to follow biblical principles that aren’t always black and white. It takes discernment and maturity to live responsibly under God’s grace, and that’s something many Christians struggle with. We need to grow beyond a rule-based faith and embrace the freedom—and the responsibility—that comes with following Christ.
Under Attack
It’s important to remember that genuine Christian ethics will always be under attack. The world often tempts us with promises of profit, power, and prestige. But Jesus calls us to a different path—one of life, service, and humility. It’s not easy, and it requires daily surrender and commitment. As we let God’s Word shape our thinking, we begin to see the world from His perspective, and that changes everything.
In a society obsessed with image and success, real, genuine faith often looks countercultural. But that’s okay. Jesus told His followers to carry their cross daily, and that means making tough choices that go against the grain. It’s about setting boundaries based on God’s standards, not the world’s. And while it may be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. As we align our lives with God’s truth, we experience a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with Him and a more meaningful life.
So, what kind of Christianity are you living? Is it real, grounded in a genuine relationship with Christ, or is it just a “plastic” imitation that looks good on the outside? The choice is yours. Remember, it’s not just about the end product but the process of becoming who God wants you to be. Let’s commit to living authentic, transformative lives that reflect the real thing—true, vibrant Christianity.
Chuck Bollar
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