A Lesson From Alexander the Great

As some of you know, my family and I's latest task has been, as I like to call it, "church-shopping." Although this has been a long process and has definitely been teaching me patience, I also look at it as a blessing because each week I get to gather with groups of believers, see how different but alike each church really is, and hear many different pastors fantastically bring the word of God to their congregation. This morning in particular I heard a message that I won't likely forget anytime soon, but there was one thing in particular from it that I wanted to share. During the message the pastor told a story that went like this:

Alexander the Great was one of the best emperors in the known ancient world. He was a great warrior and conqueror. In fact, Alexander ended up conquering every known land in that time. In one particular battle for conquest, a 16 year old soldier was put on the front lines. As Alexander's army marched toward the enemy the boy turned and fled as fast as he could in retreat and terror. After the battle was won, he was found weeping behind a tree. The boy was brought forth to Alexander the Great, being charged with treason. Alexander looked upon the boy and a wave of compassion swept over him. "What is your name boy?" he asked. "Al...Alexander, sir," the boy stuttered ashamedly. "What did you say?!" Alexander shouted, straightening his countenance as he did so. "Alexander is my name." "WHAT IS YOUR NAME?!" Alexander the great was in a rage. "Alexander, sir!" The boy shouted back. Looking on the boy in ager, Alexander said to him, "Either change your name, or change your conduct."
The pastor then went on to say that this lesson can also be applied to numerous Christians today. Christians who claim to have Christ, but lack any spiritual transformation or sanctification, who altogether lack a reverent fear of almighty God. The same can be said to them.

"What is your name?"

"Ch....Christian, sir."

"What did you say?!"

"I said I'm a Christian, sir!"

"Either change your name, or change your conduct."