new life in Jesus
WHAT MUST I DO TO HAVE NEW LIFE IN JESUS?
1. Forgiveness of sin: Our sin separates us from God and places us in a bondage that controls and destroys our life. The first thing we must do to get right with God is to invite God's forgiveness, through Jesus Christ, for all our past sins. "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are Justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:22-24). Pray to God through the name of Jesus asking for the forgiveness of sins through Christ sacrifice for your sins. It may help to imagine yourself bringing the sins of your past to the cross of Christ and picture yourself dumping these sins off at the cross. Allow the saving, cleaning power of God to wash over you.
1. Forgiveness of sin: Our sin separates us from God and places us in a bondage that controls and destroys our life. The first thing we must do to get right with God is to invite God's forgiveness, through Jesus Christ, for all our past sins. "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are Justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:22-24). Pray to God through the name of Jesus asking for the forgiveness of sins through Christ sacrifice for your sins. It may help to imagine yourself bringing the sins of your past to the cross of Christ and picture yourself dumping these sins off at the cross. Allow the saving, cleaning power of God to wash over you.
2. Let go of your old life: "For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." (Romans 6:6) Our old life was characterized by sinful attitudes and actions that became a natural part of who we were. Our old life must go (crucified with Christ) as we take on the new life that Christ has for us. (See Ephesians 4:17-32)
3. Renewing the mind. "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2) The new life begins with new ways of thinking. We must allow God to change our attitudes, thoughts and perspectives.
4. The Spirit filled life: "Jesus replied, 'If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him and we will come to him and make our life with him. (John 14:23) "Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:38)
God's help is closer than you can imagine. God wants to take up residence in our life in the form of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, strengthens and counsels and guides us. Invite God to fill you with His Holy Spirit. Invite the Holy Spirit to take up residence in your life.
What Must I do to Grow in Christ?
1. Find a good church that is committed to Biblical integrity that will help you grow in your new life in Christ. Take in the Biblical teaching of the church and make yourself available to use your spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church. (See Corinthians 12:7) If you haven't been baptized, you should talk with the pastor about being baptized. (See also Ephesians 4:11-16)
2. Read God's Word
The Bible is given to us to instruct us and introduce us to God's will and plan for our life. God's word will:
1. Find a good church that is committed to Biblical integrity that will help you grow in your new life in Christ. Take in the Biblical teaching of the church and make yourself available to use your spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church. (See Corinthians 12:7) If you haven't been baptized, you should talk with the pastor about being baptized. (See also Ephesians 4:11-16)
2. Read God's Word
The Bible is given to us to instruct us and introduce us to God's will and plan for our life. God's word will:
- Help you to know God and understand his will for your life.
- Shape your thinking.
- Point out sin in your life.
- Instruct you in Godly living.
3. Pray regularly.
Prayer is fellowship with God. It is both talking with God and listening to him. Several aspects of prayer are:
Prayer is fellowship with God. It is both talking with God and listening to him. Several aspects of prayer are:
- Praise and adoration of God - Nehemiah 1:5.
- Confession - 1 John 1:8-9.
- Surrender - Matthew 6:10.
- Praying for others - James 5:16.
- Praying for victory over sin - Matthew 5:13.
- Personal requests - Matthew 5:11.
4. Fellowship with other Christians: Read Acts 2:40-47. One of the firsy things that happened after these 3,000 people turned to Jesus was that they began spending time together and ministering to one another.
Recommended Bible passages for Seekers and New Believers: John 3:1-21, Romans 6:1-23, John 14:15-27, Romans 8:1-17, Acts 2:37-47, Romans 12:1-21, Romans 3:9-31 and Peter 5:1-11. Here are some books of the Bible that may be good starters for new Christians and beginning Bible readers: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Romans, Ephesians, 1 Peter, Psalms