"When I Am a Christian."

A COLPORTEUR in Germany called at the house of a Jew in one of the villages. The father and mother were out, but a little boy sitting with the Scriptures before him, was reading intently a portion of St. Matthew’s Gospel. The colporteur addressed him, and asked, “What are you reading, my child?”
“I am reading the Sermon on the Mount.”
“Do you know who it was that spoke those words?”
“Certainly; it was the Lord Jesus Christ.”
“But who was the Lord Jesus Christ?” “He was the Son of God.”
“And do you believe that He was the Son of God?”
“Yes, certainly. Why should I not believe it?”
“But your father and mother do not believe that Jesus is the Son of God.”
“Then they will not be saved.”
“And how do you know that?”
“But you know, my boy, that not all who profess to be Christians are true and faithful believers, There are many nominal Christians.”
“What is meant by nominal Christians?”
“It means that not all who are called Christians love the Lord Jesus Christ, and adorn their profession by a holy and consistent walk, for many have a name that they live, but are dead.” Revelation 3:11And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. (Revelation 3:1).
“When I am a Christian, I will live as a Christian, and do everything which the Lord Jesus has commanded.”
“Then may God bless you, my child, and give you strength to be faithful to your purpose!”
The colporteur then gave him some tracts, and went his way.
The schoolmaster of the village informed him that he was a very dear child; that he was already a sincere believer, and his best scholar.
 
1. It is well to remember that the Lord Jesus Christ when on earth told the religious Jews, that except they believed in Him, they would die in their sins. John 8:2424I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. (John 8:24).