For Bible references in this video, check the description on YouTube.
Before we get into whether you want to be a Christian, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about what a Christian is in the first place. The first incidence of people being called Christians was in the city of Antioch (Acts 11:26). Some historians believe the label "Christian" was used as a derogatory term placed on believers by haters because it can be translated as "little Christ."
Over time, people who believed in Jesus' teachings adopted the title of "Christian" as their own, and now it means "follower of Christ." And to "follow Christ" means to believe in, agree with, and live by the teachings of Jesus Christ. OK, now that we're on the same page...
The world has provided many different options on what to believe, how to believe, or if we ought to believe in anything at all. It’s almost like we can pick and choose which beliefs, morals, and standards we want. The Bible teaches that there is only one way to God, true personal joy, and fulfillment in life and that is through believing in Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).
Choosing to become a Christian is a very personal decision that cannot be made for you nor forced upon you. If you choose to become a Christian, it is a choice that should be made by your own free will.
What is it about Jesus Christ, His life, and His teachings that has convinced over 2.2 billion people worldwide to call themselves Christians?1 Jesus' message was so simple that sometimes it's hard to understand. Here's the basic rundown:
If you understand, believe, and accept these things as true, then you are saved from the penalty for your sin. God grants the gift of forgiveness and salvation from an eternity without Him to anyone who asks (John 3:16; Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8-9). It's as simple as that. God is offering you an amazing, undeserved gift, and you are welcome to take it—even though you've done nothing to earn it (Romans 5:8).
We have all made bad choices and will likely make many more, but accepting Jesus is the perfect choice. If you are ready to become a Christian, you can become one right this very moment.
Are you ready? Do you recognize you're a sinner in debt to God for disobedience? Do you acknowledge that your sin deserves punishment? Do you believe that Jesus, who is God in a perfect, sinless human form, took the penalty you owed on your behalf? Do you believe that Jesus came back to life to prove the penalty was accepted by God?
If you have answered yes to all of these questions, then tell God! He is listening right now, and the angels are ready to celebrate your decision. All you must do is believe that Jesus died for your sins, was buried, and rose again. If you have told God that you accept the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, then please let us personally welcome you into the family of God!
Once you have accepted Christ as your Savior, you will likely begin to find that God has been drawing you to His side for a long time (John 6:44). And once you have received the gift of salvation, it can never be taken away from you.
You are not expected to have everything figured out or to do everything perfectly immediately. (In fact, human perfection is a myth!) And now you have the Holy Spirit to help you learn to live your life in a way that glorifies God and truly have a joyful, abundant life (John 10:10).
Our relationship with God is a progressive journey that goes in all different directions—even sideways and backward sometimes. Talking to Him regularly (prayer) and studying His love letter to you (the Bible) will also help you grow in your faith and learn more about God, His character, and the story of His relationship with humanity.
As you continue your spiritual journey of discovery, we are here to help you! 412teens exists to help young believers establish a firm foundation in biblical principles and equip them with the wisdom, tools, and skills they need to live their new life with Christ. You have been born into a new family—God's Kingdom—and we are so excited that you're here. <3
RESOURCES: 1. "Spread of Christianity"; WorldData.info; https://www.worlddata.info/religions/christianity.php (Accessed 10-26-2023)
Choosing to become a Christian is a very personal decision that cannot be made for you nor forced upon you. If you choose to become a Christian, it is a choice that should be made by your own free will. Becoming a Christian is simple: "If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved" (Romans 10:9-10). All you must do is believe that Jesus died for your sins, was buried, and rose again. Once you have accepted Christ as your Savior, you will have the Holy Spirit to help you learn to live your life in a way that glorifies God and truly have a joyful, abundant life (John 10:10).
Vivian loves learning, studying the Word of God, and helping others in their walk with Christ. She is dedicated to helping people learn more about Jesus and is ready to help in any way she can. Her favorite things to do are spending time with her family and friends, cooking, drawing, and spending time outside. When she is not writing, you can find her soaking up the sunshine or going on an adventure.
Cat is the web producer and editor of 412teens.org. She is known as "412teens" on the 412teens Discord. She loves audiobooks, feeding the people she cares about, and using Christmas lights to illuminate a room. When Catiana is not cooking, gardening, or practicing creativity, she enjoys spending time with her two kids, five socially-awkward cats, and her amazing friend-amily.
