(Christianity 101) – – Keeping your Heart and Mind right
How to become a Christian…
Many different churches will tell you different things. Some will help you pray to begin your relationship with Christ (called a “sinners prayer”). That is only the beginning. Once you make a decision to follow Christ, it is THE decision that is priority over every other decision you make, every day. That first prayer is just and introduction, not a permanent label or a guaranteed one way ticket to heaven, no matter what. If you pray that prayer with a friend or in a church, then act on it. Talk to God every day, read your Bible, attend church, but most importantly, REPENT of sin. Denounce anything that would come between you and Jesus.
When you ask Christ into your heart it is instant, miraculous, and based on His work, not your good works. You can not promise to be good enough and then invite Him into your life. He will clean up all the junk, fix all the relationships and show you the way. Depend on Him.
- Admit your sin – Romans 3:23 – for all have sinned and fallen short
- Believe on Christ – Romans 10:9 – if you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth That Jesus is Lord, you will be saved.
- Confess Him as Lord – Rom 10:13 – “for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How to read your Bible…
Reading is different than “studying”. Read at least a verse everyday, try to read a chapter. Download the you version on your phone (http://youversion.com)
When you “study” it is different. Find a translation that reads clearly to you (I use the NIV). Look up a topic such as Love, Forgiveness, Serving, etc. Look up teaching outlines, youtube videos, ask your Pastor, discuss it in small groups, etc. We have put together another website dedicated to Bible study on hundreds of topics at http://bereanbibleclass.com
we should study to show ourselves approved to God – 2 Tim 2:15
How to pray…
Talk to God every day. Then be still, sit, wait, listen. Prayer is not a monologue, it is a dialogue. A two way conversation. Pray in private, in silence and then out loud when you can. Learn to pray in public when appropriate, when called on or before meals, etc. Do not just ask God for stuff and tell him what you want. Yes that’s a part of it but follow the pattern of the Lords prayer. Reciting it word for word is not the only way to pray it, but use it as an outline or a guide. Here’s some more info on it:
in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God
Phil 4:7
How to find a church…
Start going to a few. write down what you like and what seems weird. Talk to the Pastor at those churches. Tell Him what you need, and ask Him what they do. Read their websites and find out what they believe. Did you feel at home? were they friendly? Pray about it, do your homework and meet with leaders. God will lead you and when He does, commit. Go “all in” serve, give, be faithful, and invite your friends.
Jesus said…upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it – Matt 16:18
A Few Necessities:
- Do they make the Bible THE priority? Is it absolute truth? The final rule? (If not, then run for the hills)
- Is the Worship experience relevant? do you relate to the songs? can you engage? is it performance? (not good) is it authentic? (sincere, meaningful)
- Are there opportunities to get to know people in small groups?
- Are they more concerned with denominational / corporate business than the local church family?
- Are they passionate about reaching lost, unsaved people, or self serving?