The Gospel

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A CHRISTIAN

Identifying as a Christian extends beyond mere religious affiliation or adherence to a set of values. It entails embracing the teachings of the Bible concerning God, humanity, and salvation. Let us explore these foundational truths as outlined in Scripture.

God is the Sovereign Creator

Contrary to contemporary perspectives that attribute human origins to evolution, Scripture asserts that we are the deliberate creation of a personal God, designed for fellowship, service, and devotion to Him. It is revealed in the New Testament that Jesus Himself is the Creator of all things (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16), hence, He holds dominion over all (Psalm 103:19). Consequently, our lives are under His authority, demanding our unwavering allegiance, obedience, and worship.

God is Holy

The absolute and immaculate holiness of God (Isaiah 6:3) precludes any association with evil (James 1:13). Correspondingly, God calls for holiness from humanity, as articulated in 1 Peter 1:16: “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

Humanity is Sinful

The holiness and justice of God necessitate the punishment of sin through death (Ezekiel 18:4). Mere behavioral modifications cannot address the profound issue of sin or its ramifications.

Jesus is Lord & Savior

As reiterated in the New Testament, Jesus is the Creator of all (Colossians 1:16), thereby possessing ultimate authority (Psalm 103:19). Consequently, our lives are under His authority, demanding our unwavering allegiance, obedience, and worship. Romans 10:9 affirms, “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved.” Despite the divine requirement of death for sin, God’s love provided a Savior who bore the penalty and died for sinners (1 Peter 3:18). Through His death, Christ satisfied the demands of God’s justice and holiness (2 Corinthians 5:21), enabling forgiveness and salvation for those who place their faith in Him (Romans 3:26).

The Nature of True Faith

Genuine faith is inevitably accompanied by repentance from sin. Repentance involves acknowledging one’s sinful nature before God, confessing sins, and actively turning away from them (Luke 13:3-5; 1 Thessalonians 1:9), while pursuing Christ (Matthew 11:28-30; John 17:3) and obedience to His teachings (1 John 2:3). Mere intellectual assent to Christ’s existence is insufficient; even demons acknowledge God’s reality (James 2:19) without love or obedience. True saving faith manifests in obedience (Ephesians 2:10; 1 John 3:24; 2 John 6; 3 John 4).

More Questions?

We’re here to assist you in discovering the answers you seek regarding how to be a Christian. Don’t hesitate to reach out with your inquiries, and we’ll connect you with someone who can guide you. Remember, a broken and contrite heart, the Lord will not despise! (Psalm 51:17)