NEW BELIEVERS

What Is Meant By “New Believer”?

When I use the phrase “New Believer,” I am referring to individuals who either came to Christ recently or did so several years or even decades ago. Their life is usually marked by the following:

1. They haven’t been taught how to READ God’s Word for themselves, nor the importance of doing so!

2. They haven’t been taught how to STUDY God’s Word on their own.

3. They haven’t been taught how to PRAY, nor the importance of doing so!

4. They haven’t been taught the daily, weekly, or monthly DISCIPLINES of spiritual growth (e.g., bearing fruit, fasting, giving, godly living, etc.).

5. They haven’t been taught very much about the fundamentals of the faith (e.g., the Gospel, Christ, God, fellowship, Heaven, The Judgment Seat of Christ, Hell, Angels, Demons, The Great White Throne, purpose for church, etc.).

Reading God’s Word is vital because it represents His handbook/manual for living, as well as His love letter to His children. Within its pages, we learn of His promises to us and humankind in general.

Studying God’s Word is important because the Scriptures contain a great depth of meaning. Besides, as any good father, He promises to teach, guide, and protect us with His Word!

While the written Word speaks to us, prayer is how we talk with Him. And, like any good relationship, frequent and high-quality communication is primary.

Daily, weekly, and monthly disciplines are how we live a life that pleases Him! Remember, as Believers, we are both children of God and servants of God. As Children of the King, we have benefits that others (especially non-believers) do not. As Servants of God, we must serve our King with the life, resources, talents, and gifts He has given to us!

So, the life of a New Believer should focus on drawing nearer to Christ, learning more about Him and His eternal Kingdom, as well as becoming more like Him in speech (word) and deed (action). These things are primary because they solidify the relationship and prevent us from becoming “religious” – where we go to church services and try to become a “good person” who lives “a good life.”

If you have any questions or comments, please email me here.

In His Service,

Roy