Stealth Christianity

Courtesy en.wikipedia.org

To some the very thought of an unseen Christian would cause extreme negative emotions.  If you feel that way, calm down, and read the benefits of such a believer.

Interest Leads to Questions

I have been fascinated with flight since I was young.  My second-grade science project was on how the design of airplanes' wings (called "airfoil") caused them to fly.  Naturally, such an interest only intensified at the thought of jet aircraft, especially those of the military variety.

Due to this interest, I recently watched part of a video touting the prowess of the F-22 Raptor (pictured above).  One of the main advantages of this aircraft comes from its stealth capabilities.  In short, stealth technology enables the pilot to detect the enemy's aircraft without the enemy detecting theirs.  After watching the video, a thought started rolling around in my head, "Is the thought of a 'stealth Christian' an oxymoron?"

An Incomplete Picture

As mentioned earlier, the very thought of a Christian who would purposely avoid detection would cause some people to get very upset.  They would probably quote Bible verses such as Matthew 5:14-15 about being a light and not hiding lamps under baskets, and Romans 1:16 about not being ashamed of the of the gospel.  However, such a view is incorrect because it is based off an incomplete picture of the purpose for being unseen.  Let me explain.

Unseen with a Purpose

People that hold the view that a stealth Christian avoids detection as a result of being afraid neglect Jesus' example.  Many times during His ministry Jesus told people to keep a secret.  One example can be found in Luke 5:13-14 where Jesus heals a man then instructs him not to tell anyone what had happened.  Jesus' reason for secrecy can be found in verse 15.  He didn't want people to crowd Him for physical healing, when they should be coming for spiritual healing as well, as found in the following account of Jesus and the paralyzed man.  Then the question remains how can we use this principle?

The Use of Stealth

The F-22 uses its stealth capabilities to take lives.  They're meant to get past the enemies defenses and killing them.  Stealth Christianity involves getting past a person's defenses and saving them through God's grace.  Stealth Christianity isn't about going around proclaiming your identity, it's about showing it through your life.  By living it people will often come to you.  However, it's not the only approach we can use.

Balanced Approach

Stealth Christianity involves getting entrance into people's lives, a "tip of the spear" to put one way.  Sometimes we need to be open about what we believe, and we must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit telling us when those times arise.  It all comes down to balance, and that only comes from God.


Can you think of other benefits of stealth Christianity?  Let us know in the comments section.