What is a Christian?

In the UK at the moment people have all kinds of different thoughts about what a Christian is. People say things like:

‘My parents brought me up as a Christian’

‘I go to church sometimes – mainly for family occasions’

‘I definitely believe there’s a God’

Do any of these things make someone a Christian? A Christian is somebody who follows Jesus Christ. That’s what the name means. Following Jesus involves recognising that he is God and giving your life to him.

Following Jesus

Jesus’ life is well documented historically. He was a Jew living in Palestine 2,000 years ago. As he grew older, it became apparent that there was something different about him. He was loving and accepting of even the most despicable members of his society. He started to perform miracles – healing diseases and calming minds. He taught about how to live, basing his teaching on loving one another and loving God. He taught that God is not a stern, angry deity, but that he wants to adopt us into his family as a loving Father.

Most importantly Jesus claimed to be God’s son. He said that the only way people could have a relationship with God – which is what we are all created to do – is through him. What did he mean? After he was unjustly murdered by the religious authorities for his claims, the most incredible resurrection in history took place. God brought him back to life!

All of us humans have done things wrong. We hurt one another, make selfish decisions, and ignore God. Because God is perfect, and we have ruined the wonderful life he created us for, he needed to punish our wrongdoing. When Jesus was killed, that was God inflicting our punishment on his own, blameless son instead. Jesus was a substitute for us. He paid for our wrongs so that we don’t have to. When he came alive again, many people saw him before he went up to heaven. He is still alive today, and those who follow him are filled with his spirit.

So how do I become a Christian?

First, you must believe what the Bible says about Jesus – that although you have lived short of God’s best, he took the punishment in your place by dying. ‘Faith’ is believing that Jesus is God and still alive today. Jesus has freed you from wrongdoing, and saved you from guilt and eternal punishment.

Secondly, you must surrender your life over to your loving Father, God. To become a Christian you must be prepared to admit that you have done wrong, and that there is a better way to live – God’s way. It’s like allowing Jesus to have the drivers’ seat in the car of your life.

So it’s not about whether you go to church or not. Nor does it matter if your friends or family are Christians. Just believing in God is not enough either. To become a Christian you must have faith in Jesus and turn away from your sin. It is a personal decision that no one else can make for you but will change your life for the better – forever!

If you want to make the decision to become a Christian today, click here for a prayer that might help you. Contact the friendly church office if you want to speak to somebody about your decision.