What is a Christian?

So what does it mean to be a Christian? The decision to follow Christ is the most important one we will ever make. Jesus likened it to being born again. Placing our trust in Jesus Christ and accepting His work on the cross for us is very much like beginning a new life.

First, we need to understand a few things:

God loves us, and has an eternal purpose for our lives – John 3:16; John 10:10.

As human beings, we all have a problem, for we are separated from God – Romans 3:23; Romans 3:23; John 1:8; Isaiah 59:2

God has the only answer through the death of His son Jesus upon the cross – John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Romans 5:8

We can receive God’s forgiveness when we respond to Christ – Revelation 3:20

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So what’s on offer?

If you decide to accept Jesus Christ as our Saviour and commit your life to him, your relationship with God is re-established, and he accomplishes several things for you :-

• Redemption – you are forgiven all of your sins – Ephesians 1:7

• Cleansing – you are cleansed of all your sin – Titus 3:5

• Regeneration – you are spiritually ‘reborn’ – John 3:5

• Justification – you have peace with God – Romans 5:1

• Adoption – you become a child of God – Romans 8:15

• Acceptance – you are received by the Father – Ephesians 1:4-6

• Eternal Life – you have hope in the everlasting life Jesus gives – John 5:24

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So what needs to be done ?

Jesus has already accomplished everything that is needed for your salvation. He wants a relationship with you and is waiting for your response. This is what you need to do:

• Admit – that you have not reached God’s purpose for your life – 1 John 1:9

• Be willing – to turn away from your sins – Acts 3:19

• Believe – that Jesus died on the cross to pay for your sins and then rose again from the dead – Romans 10:9

• Ask – Jesus to come into your life and be the Lord of your life – John 1:12

• Accept – God’s free gift of forgiveness – Ephesians 2:8-9

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A simple prayer you can pray:

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and in need of your forgiveness. I believe that you died for my sins, and now I want to turn away from them. I accept your forgiveness, and invite you to come into my life as my Lord and Saviour. I am now a follower of Christ. In Jesus name. Amen.

If you just prayed that prayer, and really meant it, Jesus Christ has now taken up residence within you. Your decision to follow Christ means God has forgiven you and that you will spend eternity with Him in heaven.

So what happens next?

We are excited for you and want to help you in your life-long journey with the Lord Jesus Christ. Here are five simple steps that may help you:

• Tell another Christian of your decision; such as the Vicar or one of the clergy team

• Attend the next available ‘Christian Basics’ or ‘Emmaus Discipleship’ course

• Talk to God in prayer – It is our communication channel with God

• Read the Bible – The Word of God is the basis for everything we do

Getting to know God’s Word will not only help you to grow in Christ, it will nourish your life and teach you God’s ways and His will for your life .

A daily reading plan like Scripture Union’s OUR DAILY BREAD may prove helpful.

• Develop friendships with other Christians

Friendships you make with people you meet at church services, as well as in a small group, or other similar activity, will provide an atmosphere of care and fellowship in which you can grow in relationship with one another and with God.