Beginning

If you are new to a relationship with Jesus and taking your first steps in your spiritual journey, there are a variety of things that you can do to understand the basics of Christian faith and what it means to be a follower of Jesus.

Worship-Filled Life

We worship what we spend our time, attention, and devotion on. When you think about it, there are so many things in this world that people worship. Some worship our looks, career, or money, but the Bible calls us to worship God with our entire lives (Romans 12:1-2). As we are beginning in our faith, it’s important to reprioritize our thoughts from the things of this world and focus our thoughts on Jesus.

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.” Psalm 29:2 (NIV)

Attending a worship service is important for several reasons. First, it provides a dedicated time and space to connect with Jesus. When you take time out of our week to go to church, you are able to connect to God on a deeper level. Worship services provide a place for us to align our hearts with the heart of God, grow in our knowledge of Him, and connect in community with other Believers.

Grow in the Word

The Bible can help us deepen our relationship with God, gain insight into His character and teachings, and find guidance for navigating life’s challenges. It provides a solid foundation for building faith and discerning God’s will. Engaging in regular scripture study not only strengthens us spiritually but also fosters a deeper intimacy with God. 

Psalm 119:105 (NIV): “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

This book helps new believers learn what their decision to follow Jesus means. Each day includes daily thoughts from the Bible and ways to put them into practice. The devotional answers questions like “what does this mean?,” “what should I do?,” and “what does this change?” Use this tool to guide those beginning their journey of following Jesus.

Connect in Community

We weren’t made to do life alone. We need each other for fellowship, encouragement, and accountability. Through a life-on-life community, we can learn from one another, share experiences, and find friendship on their faith journey. Actively engaging with each other allows for deeper relationships to form, providing a network of support during both joyful and challenging times. 

Hebrews 10:25 (NIV): “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

By participating in a membership class, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the church’s beliefs, values, and opportunities for involvement. It’s not merely about attending services but about actively contributing to and being invested in the life of the community, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose in advancing God’s kingdom together.

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Live a Generous Life

Embracing a life of generosity is a fundamental aspect of living out one’s faith. Generosity reflects the heart of God, who abundantly gives to His creation out of love and grace. As followers of Jesus, we are called to emulate His example by sharing our time, talents, and resources with others. Living a generous life not only blesses those in need but also brings fulfillment and joy to the giver. 

2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV): “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

By participating in a class on spiritual gifts, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of how God has uniquely gifted them to serve others. Discovering and utilizing these gifts in acts of generosity not only enriches the lives of others but also fulfills our purpose in advancing God’s kingdom and demonstrating His love to the world.

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Serve Others

Serving others is not just an option but a calling deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself set the ultimate example of service through His sacrificial love and humility. As His followers, we are called to imitate His servant-heartedness by actively seeking opportunities to meet the needs of others and to share the love of God in tangible ways. Engaging in acts of service not only demonstrates our faith in action but also fosters unity and strengthens the bonds of community within the body of believers. 

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV): “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

By participating in a class on serving, you can gain a deeper understanding of the various ministries of the church and discern how their unique gifts and talents can be utilized to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Serving becomes not just a duty but a joyful expression of our gratitude for God’s grace and an integral part of our Christian walk.

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Share the Gospel

The Gospel—the message of God’s love, grace, and salvation through Jesus Christ—is the very heart of Christianity. As followers of Christ, we are called to share this transformative message with others, inviting them to experience the hope and joy found in a relationship with God. Sharing the Gospel isn’t just about conveying information; it’s about extending an invitation to encounter the life-changing power of Christ’s love. 

Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV): “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Inviting friends to church provides a welcoming environment where they can hear the Gospel proclaimed, ask questions, and explore faith in community. It’s a simple yet profound way to fulfill the Great Commission, spreading the Good News and making disciples of all nations.