The Four Types of Christians (Part One)

As we journey through the New Testament, we encounter at least four types of Christians. In this first part, we will explore the first two: The Dead Christian and The Bound Christian.

1. The Dead Christian

"I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead." – Revelation 3:1

The Dead Christian is one who bears the name but not the transformation of Christ. They may attend church, claim faith, and go through religious motions, yet their heart remains unchanged. Jesus speaks to this condition in Revelation 3:2-3, urging them to remember, obey, and repent because their works are incomplete before God.

What is this incomplete work? John 6:29 tells us, “The work of God is that you believe in him whom He has sent.” True faith isn’t just acknowledging Christ—it’s surrendering to Him completely.

The apostle John further clarifies in 1 John 5:11-13:"God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life."

Without Christ, there is no true life. But the good news is that those who genuinely believe in Him are made alive. 1 Corinthians 15:22 states, “Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.”

2. The Bound Christian

"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature… serve one another in love." – Galatians 5:13

Unlike the Dead Christian, the Bound Christian has experienced salvation but remains trapped in sin. Though alive in Christ, they struggle with habits, desires, or mindsets that hinder their spiritual growth.

Romans 6:16 warns us that we become slaves to whatever we obey—either sin, which leads to destruction, or obedience, which leads to righteousness. Galatians 5:17 further describes the ongoing battle between the flesh and the Spirit, pulling believers in opposite directions.

However, we are not powerless in this struggle. When we submit to the Spirit, we begin to produce His fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-24).

Yes, we will stumble, but God's grace is always available. 1 John 1:9 assures us:"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Freedom from bondage comes when we fully embrace Christ’s lordship. Romans 6:17-18 declares,"Though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart… and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness."

What’s Next?

In the next part of this series, we will explore the final two types of Christians. Which category do you find yourself in? If you’re feeling spiritually stagnant or trapped in old patterns, know that God’s grace is sufficient to transform you.

Stay tuned as we continue this journey toward spiritual growth and freedom in Christ!