Biblical Answer

The Nature of Goodness

In the context of the question, being a "good person" implies living a life of moral integrity, doing what is right, and treating others with kindness and respect. However, from a biblical perspective, the idea of being "good" is not just about external actions or behaviors. The Bible teaches that true goodness comes from within, and it is a reflection of our relationship with God. In Mark 10:18, Jesus responds to a rich young ruler who calls Him "good" by saying, "No one is good except God alone." This statement highlights the fact that goodness is not something that can be achieved through human effort or willpower, but rather it is a gift that comes from God.

The Problem of Human Goodness

The Bible also teaches that there is no one who does good, not even one (Romans 3:10-12). This is not to say that there are no people who do good deeds or exhibit good behavior, but rather that even the best of our efforts are tainted by sin and imperfection. In other words, our goodness is always mixed with badness, and we are never entirely free from the influence of sin. This is why Jesus' statement in Mark 10:18 is so profound - it reveals that true goodness can only be found in God, and that our attempts to be good apart from Him are ultimately futile.

The Christian Perspective on Goodness

So, can you still be a good person if you're not a good Christian? From a biblical perspective, the answer is no. While it's possible to exhibit good behavior or do good deeds, true goodness can only be found in a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that our sinful nature is at odds with God's holiness, and that we need to be reconciled to Him through faith in Jesus' atoning sacrifice. Only then can we experience true goodness, not just as a behavior or action, but as a fundamental aspect of our being. In this sense, being a good Christian is not just about doing good deeds, but about having a heart that is transformed by God's love and forgiveness.