Dramas and documentaries about crime investigations fill our screens and podcasts. Investigators painstakingly study crime scenes for the smallest clues. Judges and juries weigh the evidence to decide if a person is guilty or innocent.

Sometimes, the evidence is overwhelming. Other times, a judge must dismiss a case because there is not enough evidence to support the charge.

Many years ago, I saw a poster that asked:

“If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”

This is a sobering thought. The Bible tells us that we will all stand before God on the Day of Judgment to give an account of our lives, Romans 14:12. It is far better to evaluate ourselves now and make changes than to wait for God to judge us unprepared.

What Would the Witnesses Say?

If investigators interviewed your family, coworkers, friends, and neighbors, what assessment (evaluation or judgment) would they make?

Would they describe you as a loving, honest person with strong moral values? Would they share stories of how you helped others, lived by godly principles, and stood by your convictions?

Or would they laugh at the idea that you are a child of God? Would they recall an uncontrolled temper, foul language, dirty jokes, or dishonest behavior?

During Jesus’ trial, Peter was accused of being a disciple. To prove he did not follow Jesus, Peter began to curse and swear, Matthew 26:74. Peter’s behavior convinced the crowd. What does your behavior tell others about your allegiance (loyalty or commitment)?

The Quiet Christian

Perhaps they would be surprised to hear you claim to be a Christian because you never show your faith.

I remember a cartoon showing a college girl talking to her mother before leaving for school. Her mother was worried about her daughter’s reputation.

The daughter comforted her by saying:

“Don’t worry, Mother. I won’t let anyone know I’m a Christian.”

Would the testimony of your friends and family clear you of being a Christian? Would they show that your lifestyle is not Christian at all? Or would the case be dismissed because there is simply not enough evidence to tell?

The Secret Camera Test

Imagine if your house had cameras and microphones, like a reality TV show. What would a close look at your home life reveal?

Would it show you taking time to study God’s word and praying fervently (Daniel 6:10-12)? Would the investigators see you treating your spouse or parents with love, dignity, and respect?

Would they see you raising your children with godly principles, teaching them to serve and love God (Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:6-9)? Would they find your temper under control and your speech edifying (encouraging and building others up) (Philippians 2:1-4)?

Or Would It Reveal a Different Story?

Would the cameras find you demeaning your family? Would they show a Bible that stays closed between Sunday services? Would they see days passing without a single prayer?

Would they capture you watching offensive shows, using vulgar language, or viewing inappropriate material online? Would they witness anger, abuse, or someone who only cares about material wealth?

The Verdict

What would a jury decide after seeing the evidence of your private life?

Would they determine that you are truly a Christian because your most private moments reflect your faith? Would they conclude that even though you make mistakes, you quickly try to correct them, seek forgiveness, and keep moving forward?

Or would they decide you are not a Christian because your speech and actions contradict your claim?

You will stand on trial one day. You will have to answer for every careless word and action in front of a Judge who knows everything.

Judge yourself honestly today before it is too late.