HOW TO BECOME A CHRISTIAN*Have you ever wondered what the phrase "born again" means? The Bible records that Jesus used the phrase in a conversation with a man named Nicodemus. This man approached Jesus at night. He was curious about Jesus and the kingdom of God.
Jesus told him, "Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). Nicodemus responded, "But how can anyone be born when he is old?" (John 3:4).
Nicodemus was a highly moral man who obeyed God's law. He was a respected leader of the Jewish community. No doubt he was a fine man. Yet something was lacking. Like Nicodemus, many people today confuse religion with new birth in Christ. Phrases like "I pray regularly" or "I believe there is a God" often are confused with a real new-birth experience.
New birth begins with the Holy Spirit's convicting a person that he or she is a sinner. Because of sin, we are spiritually dead. That means spiritual birth, as Jesus described it, is necessary. God loves us and gives us spiritual birth when we ask Him for it.
The Bible says all persons are sinners (Romans 3:23). Jesus died on a cross and was raised from the dead to save sinners. To be born again means a person admits to God that he or she is a sinner, repents of sin, believes in Christ, and confesses faith in Christ as Savior and Lord. Jesus told Nicodemus that everyone who believes in (places faith in) Christ would not perish (John 3:16). Jesus is the only one who can save us (John 14:6).
To believe in Jesus is to be born again. Confess your sins and ask Jesus right now to save you. "Whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Acts 2:21). After you have received Jesus Christ into your life, share your decision with another person. Then, following Christ's example, ask for baptism by immersion in your local church as a public expression of your faith (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:6).
*Family Bible Study: Life Ventures Learner Guide. Winter 2004-2005. LifeWay Church Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Pastor Associate Pastor/Minister of Music Church Ministries Church Founders
Home Page About Us Contact Information Find Us Links Upcoming Events