The first step in becoming a Christian
Most people believe they are good, and honestly, they may be when they compare themselves to other people. However, God will not judge us based on comparisons with other people. He will judge us based on His standard (10 Commandments). His standard is perfection. Whenever we disobey God, it is called sin. Sin leads to death, and ultimately eternal Hell. If God judges us by His standards, all of us would be guilty and should spend eternity in Hell. But God is good and kind, and sent His Son (Jesus) into this world to pay for our sins…
Understanding what Jesus did…
Jesus came into this world as man, yet still was God. He was born 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem, through a virgin named Mary. He was tempted in every way that we are, yet He never sinned. The Jewish leaders falsely accused Him of blasphemy and sentenced Him to death. The Romans crucified Him on a cross. He became our substitute. Jesus (the sinless one), died for us (the sinful). Payment for sin was completed. Three days later, He rose from the dead. Jesus appeared to over 500 people at one time after He was resurrected.
What is our response…
Jesus said to receive forgiveness of sins, we must REPENT (ask forgiveness and be willing to turn from sin) and TRUST in Him. You receive forgiveness by FAITH in Christ. A transaction can be made: your sins were placed on Jesus while He was on the cross, and His righteousness can be placed in your account when you receive and trust Him by faith. All your past, present, and future sins will be forgiven. You will receive the gift of eternal life in Heaven. It is not based on how good you are but depends upon whether you are trusting Jesus as your LORD & SAVIOR. It is important to understand that a Christian is a sinful, bad person, saved & forgiven by a good and gracious God. Your actions will change, because you will WANT to do good to please God, because He has been so kind to save you. Jesus said that those who TRUST in Him should follow Him in obedience in water baptism. Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. Although we strive to obey Jesus and not sin, we are not perfect. Repentance from sin is a change of attitude toward sin (feeling convicted of your sins and asking for forgiveness).
To help you grow in your relationship to Jesus you should:
Attend Church
Read your Bible
Pray
Tell Others About Jesus
In Summary:
Understand your NEED for Jesus
REPENT & TRUST Jesus as your Lord & Savior by FAITH
Get BAPTIZED as an act of obedience
GROW in the faith