This is an adaptation from 10 Misconceptions of New Believers (http://christianity.about.com/od/newchristians/a/misconceptions.htm).

Even as I would pray this wouldn't be considered a myth, many can attest that it is. Many of us have experienced some of our most painful experiences at the hand (and mouths) of Christians. But then again WE have had our share in bringing those painful experiences to others as well (let's be real).

Sadly there are many people that turn from God due to the mistreatment of those counted as God's children. New (and 'old') believers alike must take personal responsibility for their actions and conduct before God and His people. In addressing this 'myth,' I don't want to focus on how bad or evil Christians can be (or have been), but rather an encouraging reflection for us to consider our purpose in life and service before God and the world.

One of the messages imprinted throughout the 1 John is the theme of love. 1 John was written to refute false teachings and reaffirm sound doctrine. Within the context of this short message, I will focus on the themes of love (God's love and how we are to love) - to address this 'myth.' John writes on other issues to encourage and establish sound doctrine, so please read 1 John to gain a greater understanding of the entire message...

There is more to living as a disciple of Christ than saying I BELIEVE and returning to the same pattern of living. For the Christian, love is foundational. Though we are housed in fragile shells of flesh, we must live out the commandments of our Lord. Many Christians don't understand that we are commanded to love God (with all our heart, mind, and soul) and love others as ourselves.

As we have received love from our Heavenly Father (through the giving of Son), we are commanded to reciprocate that love to God and others. As Christians, there are ways in which we don't walk in love, so let go through them quickly:

• Not obey God's Word (2:5)
• Hate your brothers (2:10; 3:10-15)
  
• Love the world (2:15-17)
• Have no pity on your brothers (3:17)

1 John 4:7-8 (KJV) - Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

John provides some greater insight into loving God and others, so let's go a little further. In order to walk in love:

• Walk in the light as He is light (having fellowship with God) - (1:5-7)
  
• Purify yourself (3:1-3)
• Love one another (3:11)
• Lay down your life for your brothers (3:16)
• Love with action and truth (3:18)
• Live in love - (4:16-17)
• Be made perfect in love - having no fear on the day of judgment (4:17-18)
• Love the Father and His child (5:1)
• Obey God's commands (5:3)
• Overcome the world (5:4-5)

1 John 5:5 (KJV) - Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

You want to overcome the world not be like it! The world hates, holds grudges, takes revenge, won't forgive, remains spiteful, has an attitude, and repays evil with evil. The world will not last forever, it will fade away...along with its passions, behaviors, and lusts.

John wrote these things so that we who believe in the Son of God will have eternal life. It is not important to 'keep it real' like the world but to love God and those He places within your life.

May your life make this myth out to be a lie! Live in the light! Love God! Love His people!