# How to Be a Good Christian Ellen White taught that being a Christian means far more than church membership or simply bearing the name. She wrote, "To be a Christian is to be Christ-like" (
HS 157.6), emphasizing that true Christianity is demonstrated through character transformation and practical living. At its core, she explained, "it is having the mind of Christ, submitting to the will of God in all things" (
1T 152.3). ## The Foundation: Christlikeness in Character The essence of Christian living centers on bearing Christ's image in daily life. Ellen White stated clearly: "God's word requires that we should be like our Saviour, that we should bear His image, imitate His example, live His life" (
5T 113.3). This isn't merely outward conformity but an inward transformation where the light from Christ penetrated the heartand "justice and purity and truth abiding in the soul temple" (
15MR 301.3). She emphasized that genuine Christianity produces visible fruit: "We may know; for the fruits will appear" (
15MR 301.3).
These fruits include "love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance" (YI January 24, 1901, par. 1). A Christian life is recognized not by profession but by practice—"it is the doers of his word, and not the hearers only, who will stand secure in the evil time" (BEcho June 1, 1887, par. 7). ## Practical Daily Living Ellen White gave specific counsel for living out Christian principles. She warned against self-centeredness, noting that "selfishness and worldliness are not fruits of a Christian tree. No man can live for himself and yet enjoy the approbation of God" (
5T 113.3). Instead, Christians should "seek to do good to others, and at the same time will so order their conversation and deportment as to maintain a calm, hallowed peace of mind" (
T31 109.3).
She addressed the challenge of controlling one's temper with practical advice: "Whenever little annoyances and trials arise, ask God in silent prayer to give you strength and grace to bear them patiently. There is a power in silence; do not speak a word until you have sent up your petition to the God of heaven" (
HS 157.6). This demonstrates that Christian character is developed through moment-by-moment dependence on God. ## The Importance of Time and Priorities A crucial element Ellen White highlighted is making time for spiritual growth. She counseled, "You must take time to be a Christian, not tax brain and nerve to such an extent that you cannot be Christlike under difficulties" (
8MR 329.1). This means prioritizing spiritual development over worldly pursuits and recognizing that we cannot "serve God and mammon" (
CTBH 91.1).
She also emphasized that Christian influence begins at home: "To be a Christian means to practice religion in the home. Where is it more needed?" (YI January 24, 1901, par. 1). Home influence, she noted, is "all-powerful for good" when "carefully cherished" but "can not bear the blast of rudeness or neglect without receiving a wound which can with difficulty be healed" (YI January 24, 1901, par. 1). ## Beyond Self to Service True Christianity extends beyond personal piety to active compassion for others. Ellen White taught that Christians should "unclose their hearts to the benign influence of His love and grace, that their compassion for others may overflow the boundaries of self and the enclosures of family walls" (
3T 531.2). She reminded believers that "we can pass through this world but once, that we can never return to repair the errors and mistakes we have made, how important that we go through it as we ought!" (
3T 531.2).
The Christian life requires continuous growth and self-examination. Ellen White observed that many "would have to learn what it is to be a Christian—that it is not in name; but it is having the mind of Christ" (
1T 152.3). This learning process involves studying to imitate the life of Christand recognizing that "it is a wonderful thing to be a Christian, truly Christ-like, peaceable, pure and undefiled" (
T26 197.2). --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:**
• What did Ellen White say about developing patience and self-control in daily trials?
• How can we maintain spiritual growth while balancing work and family responsibilities?
• What counsel did she give about showing Christ's love to difficult people? --- 📚 **thousands of passages found** containing these search terms — [Explore in Full-Text Search](/advanced-search?q=How+can++be+a+good++Christian%3F)
Ellen Chat