Biblical Answer

Can I Still Be a Good Person Without Being a Christian?

The question of whether a person can be good without being a Christian is a complex one. On the one hand, Christians believe that sin is a fundamental part of human nature, and that even the best of people are not without sin. As C.S. Lewis notes, "If you actually know any Christians, you will find that they are not good people. They are a pretty mixed bunch." However, this does not mean that Christians are inherently bad people. Rather, it means that they are imperfect people who are struggling with their own sin and seeking to follow Jesus Christ.

On the other hand, there are certainly people who live good lives without being Christians. These individuals may be motivated by a sense of morality, compassion, and justice, and may even be more altruistic and selfless than many Christians. However, the question remains as to whether this goodness is sufficient to earn salvation or to make a person truly good. Christians believe that it is not, and that true goodness can only be achieved through a relationship with Jesus Christ. As Lewis notes, "The only good thing about a good non-Christian is that he is a potential Christian."

Ultimately, the question of whether a person can be good without being a Christian is a matter of perspective. From a Christian perspective, the answer is no, because true goodness can only be achieved through a relationship with Jesus Christ. However, from a non-Christian perspective, the answer may be yes, because there are certainly people who live good lives without being Christians. The key issue is not whether a person is good or not, but rather whether they have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and are seeking to follow Him. As Lewis notes, "The whole purpose of becoming a Christian is simply to become a little Christ."