Is It Just a Hat?

I often see young men wearing various hats with sports team logos on them. It seems like the "Team of the day" is constantly changing. I am a big Chicago sports teams fan so whenever I see someone wearing a Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Blackhawks, or Bears hat I ask them, "Is that just a hat or are you a real fan of that team?" By asking that question I am seeking to know if they are a true fan or is it just the fad of the day.

You do not have to be a real fan to wear the hat. You can even hate the team but think the hat looks cool, or that it will give you street cred (whatever that means.) The colors of the hat may just match your other clothes. It may be that you got a good deal on the hat and decided to wear it that day. Last of all, you may just be having a bad hair day and want to cover up your rats nest! Whatever your reason for wearing the hat, it may not mean that there is any association or loyalty to that team at all. Its just a hat!

I find that this is an extremely relevant illustration of the way some believers wear their Christianity around town. They pretend to be a Christian for the spiritual cred it may bring them. It just may be fashionable in some social circles to be thought of as a "fan of Jesus." It may be that some boys will donn the apparel just to attract a certain girl they are interested in. There are many reasons why people will act like a Christian outwardly but inwardly be far from the Lord.

When I meet someone with a Chicago team hat on and I ask them if they are a fan or is it just a hat, it does not take very long for me to discern the answer. A real fan will engage in exciting chatter about the team and its current performance. They're glad to talk with me about the team whether good or bad. They seldom change the subject or try to get away.

When you meet someone wearing the Christian hat and try to start up a conversation about spiritual things and they try to dodge your questions or act bored to tears, it is a good indication that they are most likely "just wearing the hat." If they are a true loyal follower of Christ they will have no problem talking about their Lord.

Matt 7:20 - Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.