WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A CHRISTIAN?
THE PROBLEM
Everyone has sinned against God. No exceptions.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
THE PREDICAMENT
The payment due to our sin is eternal separation from God. No excuses.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
THE PROVISION
God provided the remedy for our predicament. God sent His only son Jesus Christ to die on the cross as payment for sins we can never repay.
“But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
THE PREREQUISITE
We must ask for forgiveness and turn away from our sins. Just like any gift, God’s free gift of eternal life must be received through faith. It is by grace that we are saved. No one can earn it by good works.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it id the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
THE PROMISE
The Bible promises eternal life to anyone who will repent and believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for their sins. He has crossed over from death to life and will no longer be condemned.
“Truly, truly, I say to you, 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)
Do you believe the above affirmations from the Scripture? If yes, then you know what it takes to be a Christian! We encourage you to express this faith in a form of prayer to God:
“Lord Jesus, beginning today I ask you to become the Lord of my life. I believe that you died on the cross to pay for my sins. I confess that I am a sinner and I repent of my sins. Thank you for forgiving me and cleansing me from all my unrighteousness. Thank you for the gift of eternal life. Help me Lord to live a life pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!”