A person holding a chamelon in their handIntroduction

So-called chameleon Christians are those which, when among Christians, will act as strong Christians; however, when among non-Christians, will act similar to non-Christians.  I chose the name "chameleon Christians" to describe these people since, as many people know, a chameleon is a lizard that will change its color to match its surroundings, thereby camouflaging itself.

Scripture readingWhat Scripture Says

But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. (Galatians 2:11-16)

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 10:32-33)

Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. (Mark 8:38)

Note

Situations exist where Christians must conceal what they are doing.  For example, if a Christian is attempting to enter a restricted-access country (a country that does not allow missionaries) as a missionary, they may need to conceal what they are doing when dealing with government officials.