Growing as a Christian
Next steps for new Christians
Becoming a Christian is a beginning, not a finishing line. These are the habits that have helped Christians grow in every generation.
1. Talk to God
Prayer is simply talking to God, and you can do it anywhere. Thank him, tell him what is on your mind, say sorry when you get things wrong and ask for his help. A few minutes every day is a good way to begin. More on how to pray.
In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
2. Read the Bible
The Bible is the main way God speaks to his people. Start with one of the Gospels, such as Mark or John, and read a short section each day. You can read the Bible free online at Bible Gateway or with the YouVersion Bible app. More on how to start reading the Bible.
Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light for my path.
3. Find a church
You are not meant to follow Jesus on your own. A church is a local family of Christians who meet to worship God, learn from the Bible and support one another. Look for one that teaches the Bible, keeps Jesus at the centre and makes you welcome.
There is a fuller guide on how to find a church in the UK, and another on what happens when you go for the first time. These directories are a good place to start:
- A Church Near You, the Church of England’s directory of its parishes
- Find a Church, a directory covering many denominations
It is fine to get in touch with a church before you visit and tell them you are new. Most will be delighted to hear from you. More on why church matters.
Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as you see the Day approaching.
4. Be baptised
Baptism is the sign Jesus gave to mark the start of the Christian life. Once you have found a church, ask its leader about being baptised, or about confirmation if you were baptised as a child. How to get baptised in the UK.
Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
5. Tell someone
Tell a friend or relative that you have become a Christian. If you know another Christian, start with them. Saying it out loud makes it real, and it gives other people the chance to encourage you.
6. Keep going
You will still get things wrong. Every Christian does. When that happens, don’t give up and don’t hide. Tell God, accept his forgiveness and carry on.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
There will be hard days and days of doubt as well. On those days, remember that your standing with God rests on what Jesus has done and not on how you feel.
For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from God’s love, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Explore with others
Many UK churches run short courses that cover the basics of the Christian faith in a relaxed setting, usually with food and plenty of time for questions. They are free, and they suit new Christians as well as people who are still making up their minds. More about Alpha and Christianity Explored.