Who Is a Christian?
The poem explores the idea of what it means to be a Christian, arguing that it's not about outward appearances or actions, but rather about living a life of kindness, compassion, and love. The speaker describes various individuals who may not fit traditional notions of Christianity, yet embody its spirit through their good deeds and selflessness.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Social Critique, Philosophical Literature · 268 words
First lines
Who is a Christian in this Christian land Of many churches and of lofty spires? Not he who sits in soft upholstered pews Bought by the profits of unholy greed, And looks devotion, while he thinks of gain. Not he who sends petitions from the lips That lie to-morrow in the street and mart. Not he who fattens on another's toil, And flings his unearned riches to the poor, Or aids the heathen with a lessened wage, And builds cathedrals with an increased rent.
What this Textopian page supports
Who Is a Christian? is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Social Critique, Philosophical Literature, Inspirational, Ethical Literature
- Length: 268 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Who Is a Christian? by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Faith by Charles Kingsley
- Our Father In Heaven by Charles Kingsley
- Come Unto Me by George Macdonald
- A Sermon by George Macdonald
- Gods Way With Man by Charles Kingsley
- The Word Of God by George Macdonald
Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work explores themes of true Christian values and critiques superficial religious practices through poetic form.
- Social Critique — The text criticizes societal hypocrisy and the disparity between professed beliefs and actual behavior.
- Philosophical Literature — The poem delves into philosophical questions about the nature of true Christianity and moral integrity.
- Inspirational — The work aims to inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and strive for genuine kindness and faith.
Tags
faith · religion · Christianity · spirituality · belief · identity · morality · philosophy · community · values · ethics · devotion