What is a Christian?

A Christian is a person who has accepted Jesus Christ as the Son of God and as Savior and Lord. Going to church, doing good deeds for others, and living according to moral principles does not make one a Christian. A Christian is one who has put his or her faith and trust in Jesus Christ and the fact that He died on the cross as payment for sins and that He rose again on the third day, thereby being victorious over death and giving eternal life to all who believe in Him.

The Bible says that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23). It also says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)

However, God loves us, He is merciful, He wants to have a personal relationship with us, and He has made forgiveness of our sins and eternal life in heaven available for everyone through the death and resurrection of his Son, Jesus. As John 3:16 explains, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Again, the Bible tells us in Ephesians 1:7, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." And John 1:12 says, "Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God."

This salvation and forgiveness of our sins is not anything that we have earned. It is a free gift from God. It's available to everyone, but it is not automatic. The Bible explains that we must accept the gift of salvation by repenting. "But unless you repent, you too will all perish." (Luke 13:3) To repent means one changes direction, turning away from sin and self and turning to faith in Christ. "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out..." (Acts 3:19)

How do we turn to God? The Bible says, "…if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)

Understanding the above, if you would like to be saved and receive forgiveness by trusting in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord, please pray the following two prayers.

Dear God: I know I am a sinner. Please forgive me. I do believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He died to save me from my sins. And I believe that He rose from the grave and is alive today. I want Jesus to come into my life and forgive me of my sins and save my soul. Amen.

Dear Lord: Thank You for saving my soul. Help me to follow Your ways and obey You. I want you to be the Lord of my life. Amen.

Now you are a Christian! What's next?

Tell another Christian what has happened in your life.
Get involved in a church that preaches the Bible, where you can fellowship with other Christians; tell them you are a new Christian, and they will help you learn more about God and having a personal relationship with Him. Click here for a list of churches in your Zip Code area.
Read your Bible and pray every day.