What makes someone the "real deal" Christian? Do we ever ask ourselves, "Am I the "real deal" Christian?" This type of person is not one who just talks about what it means to be a Christian, but this person is actively living the life of a Christian. A real Christian is identified by what he does and who he is becoming. We do not live this type of life so we can earn salvation because salvation "is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8). But true faith should transform our conduct in how we live our lives and shows that our Christianity is real and alive. True faith will always show itself through real actions and real deeds. The "real deal" Christian is the person who is continually trying to follow Christ's example and live a life based on the example of Jesus. Mere people who want to seem like Christians just talk. Real Christianity is in the doing.

Mike Phelps

Pastor, United Church of God

Michael Phelps and his wife Laura, and daughter Kelsey, attend the Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Flint Michigan congregations, where Michael serves as pastor.  Michael and Laura both grew up in the Church of God.  They attended Ambassador University in Big Sandy for two years (1994-96) then returned home to complete their Bachelor's Degrees.  Michael enjoys serving in the local congregations as well as with the pre-teen and teen camp programs.  He also enjoys spending time with his family, gardening, and running.