How Do I Become a Christian?
The simple, life-changing step of trusting Christ — explained from Scripture.
The Bible says becoming a Christian means turning from sin and trusting Jesus as Lord and Saviour: “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” (Acts 16:31); “if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart... thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).
What the gospel says
The good news is simple: all have sinned and fall short, but God loved us so much he sent his Son to die for us and rise again. Salvation is a gift received by faith, not earned by good works — grace, from first to last.
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.
How to respond
The Bible calls for repentance (turning from sin) and faith (trusting Christ). You can simply tell God, in your own words, that you know you've sinned, that you believe Jesus died and rose for you, and that you're trusting him as Saviour and Lord. Then begin to follow him — in his word, in prayer, and with his people.
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart... thou shalt be saved.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.
Quick answers
- Is there a special prayer I have to pray?
- No exact words are required — God looks at the heart. Many find it helpful to pray simply: admitting sin, believing in Jesus' death and resurrection, and asking him to be their Saviour and Lord.
- What do I do after becoming a Christian?
- Begin to grow: read the Bible (start with a Gospel like John), pray, find a Bible-believing church, and tell someone. Faith grows through God's word, prayer, and community.
- Can anyone become a Christian?
- Yes. The invitation is for everyone, whatever your past. 'Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.' No one is beyond God's reach.
