Becoming a Christian isn’t complicated, but it is life-changing. We’ll explore what it means to be a Christian, how to become a Christian, and a simple example prayer to become a Christian.
I used to think I needed to have all the answers and do all the right stuff to become a Christian, but I was wrong. Becoming a Christian is simple, and you can start today. Let’s explore what it means to be a Christian and how you can start following Jesus’ way of life.
What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?
At its core, becoming a Christian means accepting the gift of salvation through Jesus. All of us have sinned and done wrong things in this life. When Jesus, the Son of God, died on the cross, He made things right between us and God. When we place our trust in Him, we receive God’s grace—not because we’ve earned it, but because of His love.
A Quick Intro to the Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus
Christians believe that Jesus is God and came to earth around two thousand years ago. He lived with kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, and taught His followers to imitate this way of living.
Jesus’ life centered on the two greatest commands of the Bible: to love God and to love others. His actions empowered and included the kinds of people who were often excluded by the religious power structure of His day. Jesus also boldly criticized religious leaders who used faith in God as a justification for injustice. Eventually, His enemies came together and formed a plot to kill Him.
Jesus was arrested and executed on a cross, paying the penalty for our sins. And three days later, Jesus rose from the dead, proving His power over death. Before returning to heaven, He encouraged His disciples (whom we might consider to be the first Christians) to lead people to follow His others-focused way of life.
What Did Jesus Do for Us?
The Bible begins with a series of ancient stories about how God made a good world, but it was corrupted by people acting out of pride, greed, and violence.
The Bible calls these choices sin. Sin is anything that doesn’t lead to the full life God made for us to live. It impacts all of our lives in big and small ways, and we’re all responsible for spreading sin in the world.
But God told His people that one day, He would save them from sin through a savior, whom they called the Messiah or the Christ.
Jesus showed us that genuine faith looks like simple, daily acts of kindness, care, and love.
That’s why Jesus came to earth. Jesus showed us what it looks like to live without sin. How? Not by following a bunch of rules or completing religious tasks. Jesus came to challenge a checklist-driven faith. He showed us that genuine faith looks like simple, daily acts of kindness, care, and love.
Jesus gave us an example of what it looks like to live free from sin and fully devoted to God. But that’s not the only reason He came to earth.
Jesus’ death and resurrection did more than just prove His power (though it certainly did that). His actions brought us freedom from sin, empowering us to live and love like Him.
What Does Jesus’ Story Mean for You?
You’ve sinned, but your core identity is not based on being a sinner. The foundation of your identity is being a loved child of God.
Maybe you’ve felt something stirring in your heart lately. A sense that something is missing. Maybe a longing for purpose. Christians believe God made us with a purpose, and that those feelings are an invitation from God to follow Him.
The first step to becoming a Christian isn’t about pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about being honest with yourself and open to the idea that Jesus Christ might be exactly who He says He is. That He died for your sins, that God raised Him to life, and that this changes everything.
How to Become a Christian
You don’t need to be doubt-free to start following Jesus. I certainly still have questions, but I trust the simple truth that following Jesus can change me and change the world.
Here are some of the beliefs that Christians often declare through prayer as a way of affirming their new way of life:
- Admit your need for God. We’ve all sinned and have fallen short. Becoming a Christian starts by recognizing your need for God’s help and forgiveness.
- Believe in Jesus Christ. Believe that Jesus is God’s only Son, that He died on the cross for your sins, and that God raised Him on the third day.
- Pray to receive Jesus as Lord and Savior. You can talk to God right now. Tell Him you want to receive His gift of eternal life and begin a personal relationship with Jesus. Ask Him to be in charge of your life from here on out.
- Follow Jesus daily. Faith is a lifelong journey. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you as you grow in your relationship with Jesus.
A Simple Prayer to Become a Christian
If you’re ready, here’s a simple prayer you can pray:
God, I know I’ve made mistakes, and I admit I need You. Thank You for loving me and for sending Your Son, Jesus, to die for my sins. I believe Jesus rose again so I could have eternal life.
Right now, I receive Jesus as my Savior. I want to follow Him and make Him the Lord of my life. Please forgive me, fill me with the Holy Spirit, and help me grow in faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you just prayed that simple prayer, I’m celebrating with you! My church has a completely free, helpful guide for new Christians. Let us know you prayed this prayer, and we’ll make sure you get a copy.
What’s Next?
You’re now part of God’s family! Here are a few next steps:
- Tell someone. Let a trusted friend, family member, or church leader know you’ve accepted Christ.
- Start reading the Bible. Begin with the Book of Mark to learn about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
- Pray daily. Talk to God regularly. He wants to hear from you.
- Attend a church. A local church or online church can help you grow, ask questions, and build community.
A guide to attending church for the first time.
You’re Not Alone in This
Jesus came so we could have life to the full. That includes you. No matter your background or what you’ve been through, the invitation is open.
You don’t have to understand everything right now. What matters is that you’ve taken a step toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. And that’s something worth celebrating.
Common Questions About Becoming a Christian
Is there a prayer to convert to Christianity? Yes, the prayer above is a helpful example prayer to become a Christian, regardless of your faith background.
What should I say to become a Christian? You can tell God that you trust in His Son, Jesus, ask for forgiveness, and invite Him into your life. The prayer above is one example.
What are the steps to become a Christian? Admit you need God, believe in His Son, Jesus, receive Him as Lord and Savior, and follow Him in daily life. This is helpful guidance, not a set formula.
How do I start my Christian life? Follow Jesus’ example by finding small ways to show love to others. Spiritual habits like talking to God, reading the Bible, and finding a church community help!
What does it mean to be saved? It means you’ve received God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ and entered into a relationship with Him that leads to eternal life.