Becoming a Christian means the beginning of a wonderful journey as a member of God's family.
The Bible says that Christians are "caused to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading" (1 Peter 1:3-4). The message and Scriptures below will help in the understanding of how to become a Christian and receive a living hope through Jesus Christ.
ADMIT THAT YOU HAVE SINNED.
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8).
Your sin separates you from God and leads to death. "God is light, and in him is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5).
"For the wages of sin is death . . ." (Romans 6:23).
You cannot get rid of your sin on your own. "He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy" (Titus 3:5).
BELIEVE THAT JESUS CHRIST IS THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN SAVE YOU FROM YOUR SINS.
"And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).
Jesus Christ, God's Son, led a sinless life, and yet chose to be in our place. "For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God" (1 Peter 3:18).
Jesus died on a cross and was buried. Three days later, God raised him to life again to prove that death was defeated. "Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures . . .he was buried . . . he was raised on the third day" (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). "Death no longer has dominion over him" (Romans 6:9).
God offers to forgive our sins, and he invites us to spend eternity in heaven with him if we accept Christ's sacrifice on our behalf. "Everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name" (Acts 10:43). "Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life" (John 5:24).
TURN FROM YOUR SINS AND INVITE CHRIST INTO YOUR LIFE.
"Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out" (Acts 3:19). "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
"If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9).
WHAT'S NEXT?
Here are some things you can do to grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ:
- Read the Bible to learn more about God and his plan for your life.
- Pray to God often to share your joys and problems and to confess your sins.
- Attend a Bible-teaching church where you can worship God and get to know other Christians.
- Share your faith. You have just received a wonderful gift. Tell someone!
