What Does it Mean to be a Christian?

Have you ever thought about how to have a more meaningful life on earth and then to spend eternity in heaven? People have various suggestions, but what does the Bible say?

1. “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Because of our self-centered will, we choose to direct our own lives. This is called sin or willful disobedience to God. The Bible says that every person is guilty of willfully disobeying God.

2. “For the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Our sin results in a debt that must be paid. Sin results in a broken relationship with God. The debt for sin was paid by Jesus when He died on a cross. We remain out of relationship with God and will spend eternity in punishment in a place called hell unless we accept the gift of salvation that Jesus offers.

3. “But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). God offers a free gift that cancels the debt we owe for sin. That gift is salvation and is free for all who come to faith in Jesus. All of us must place our faith in Jesus as Savior if we want to have a full and meaningful life now and spend eternity with God in heaven.

Personal faith in Jesus is the only way to be saved. Faith starts with admitting your disobedience to God. You then can ask Jesus to come into your life. In prayer ask:

“Lord Jesus, please forgive my sins. I open my heart to You. I repent of (turn from) my sin. I give you control of my life. Thank You for coming into my life. Amen.”

Now tell a Christian friend of your decision.