BECOMING A CHRISTIAN
AND BEING A CHRISTIAN

Matthew 11:28-30

Introduction

o     The choice to become a Christian is one involving a long term commitment.

o     Any unbalanced or incomplete approach will fail to achieve success.

o     The nature of the commitment is, therefore, a vital concern.

o     Consider the progression to ward union with Jesus and how this influences everything that follows.

HEAR

(Listening to God)

o     Becoming a Christian—II Timothy 3:16; II Peter 1:3.

o     Being a Christian—II Timothy 2:15; Psalm 1:2; Isaiah 1:18.

BELIEVE

(Trusting God)

o     Becoming a Christian—Hebrews 11:1, 6, 13, 27; Acts 2:36-37.

o     Being a Christian—I Corinthians 4:2; II Corinthians 5:7.

REPENT

(Changing Our Mind or Attitude)

o     Becoming a Christian—Luke 9:23; Acts 2:38.

o     Being a Christian—Romans 8:29; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 4:20-24.

CONFESS

(Saying the Same Thing as Jesus)

o     Becoming a Christian—I Timothy 6:12-13; Philippians 4:8; Mark 7:20-23.

o     Being a Christian—Matthew 10:32-33.

BEING BAPTIZED

(Dying to Living)

o     Becoming a Christian—Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:11-13.

o     Being a Christian—Romans 6:12-13; II Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 5:24; 6:14.

Conclusion

o     The pattern for becoming a Christian becomes the very guide for life as a Christian.

o     We are saved from our sins, but we are also saved for conformity to Christ.

o     As we understand and embrace these principles, we insure that true conversion will  occur.

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