What constitutes one being an unbeliever? We would immediately speak about those "unchurched" or those who don't believe in God as some type of agnostic or atheist. While it is true these type of people are unbelievers, what about one that believes in God, could they be rendered an unbeliever? Could it be that those that were immersed into Christ, part of His brotherhood fall into the state of unbelievers? That's would be absurd in the mind of many.
The Hebrew writer warned those Jewish Christians, those who were immersed into Christ and part of His church, "Take care, brethren, that there not be in any one of you an evil, unbelieving heart that falls away from the living God." (Heb. 3:12) It must be a serious threat to become an unbeliever or this warning would not be written. Can one go from a believer to an unbeliever while still going to the assemblies and participating in "religious" things?
The test for believing/unbelieving is found in a whole hearted trust and obedience from the heart. If we read Heb. 3:12-4:2, we will find the nation of Israel was rejected because they were found in unbelief. They were disobedient (v.18). They still worshiped, followed the teachings of the Law but were unbelievers because the word of God was not united by faith in their heart (4:2). They witnessed the miraculous deliveries by the hand of the Lord yet still would not trustingly submit to His voice, His word. It cost them not able to enter into the promises of God because of their unbelief (3:19).
Let's test our faith from Rom. 12. "Never pay back evil for evil to anyone." (v.17) Never says the Lord, even if wronged. Paul spoke of lawsuits with brethren, even if they had a case, to just being wronged or defrauded (I Cor. 6:7). It was the attitude of Jesus. When we hold to resentments or bitterness, we are trying to pay someone back for the evil they have done us. Are you a believer or unbeliever?
"Respect what is right in the sight of all men." (v.17) Respect means to have a strong regard for doing the right thing no matter what in the sight of others. Are you a believer or unbeliever?
"If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men." (v.18) Sometimes we deal with calloused, hard hearted unbelievers. They may hold a resentment or some other attitude toward you. Trustingly looking to Jesus, we will follow what He asks and make sure we are at peace with them. Are you a believer or unbeliever?
"Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengence is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord." (v.19) Never! Revenge is never right. A believer knows God will always do justice and keep His word. Vengeance is the role of the Lord, not us. An unbeliever will make vengeance their role. Are you a believer or unbeliever?
"But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink." (v.20) The Lord wants us doing things that will soften the heart of those who hate us, are bitter or spiteful to us. Are you a believer or unbeliever?
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (v.21) If we react wrongly to those who act wrongly, we become part of the problem and help evil spread in this world. Are you a believer or unbeliever?
The test of our state of faith or lack of faith is seen in how we respond to the teachings of the Lord. Israel heard God's teachings, watched His works in dire situations and still, they became unbelievers. If they could that easily, what about us?
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