Some people have had negative experiences with people who call themselves Christian and some people just hear a lot of stereotypes about Christians, so they may be defensive and even rude out of hurt, anger or fear. We are all imperfect, so forgive them. And always treat others with love and kindness, no matter how they treat you. Do not retaliate or lash out in anger, even though, as a human, you may feel that emotion. Instead, remember that Christ said to love everyone, even your enemies, to bless those who curse you and be kind to those who persecute you. Let them see that the Christians they knew or heard about don't represent every Christian. There are some very hateful and hurtful people out there and some do label themselves Christian, so this is an opportunity to open these people's hearts and minds, not through arguments or defensive comments, but through love. It doesn't matter what your reputation is in this life, but you will find it changes if your responses are loving.

Don't be ashamed of being a child of God! You have eternal life and they don't