What it means to be a Christian

What it means to be a Christian In this study we will notice: What is a Christian? Becoming a Christian What hinders me from becoming a Christian? Growing as a Christian What hinders me from growing? The Christian and the body of Christ The Christian and others Am I done yet? What it means to be a Christian?

Growing as a Christian

We are expected to Grow 1 Peter 2:1-2, desire the sincere milk of the word Hebrews 5:12-6:1, by this time you ought to be teachers… 2 Peter 3:18, grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Growing as a Christian

Reverence toward God To render proper respect to something or someone Proper and deep respect toward God. Consider who He is Psalm 111:9, Holy and awesome (reverend – KJV) is His name Hebrews 12:28-29, we serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear Growing as a Christian

Reverence toward God If we are to grow as Christians, it will begin with seeking to understand who God is and how to please Him. This attitude will impact every aspect of our lives – our worship, our daily conduct, and how we approach His word! Growing as a Christian

Reverence toward God 2 Peter 1:7, godliness 1 Timothy 4:7-8, exercise yourself toward godliness 1 Timothy 6:11, pursue …godliness 2 Peter 3:11, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness Growing as a Christian

Make up your mind! Mindset – “1. an attitude, disposition or mood. 2. An intention or inclination” (www.dictionary.com) A Christian makes up his mind that he is going to follow Christ. This will affect how he approaches scripture, processes instructions, how well he does what he does, how he deals with brethren and others. Growing as a Christian

Make up your mind! Philippians 2:5, Let this mind be in which was also in Christ Jesus Colossians 3:1-2, seek things above,… (when you find them), “set your mind on thing above…” 1 Peter 1:13, gird up the loins of your mind Growing as a Christian

Develop self-control One who is master over his emotions and conduct. He rules them rather than letting them rule him. Galatians 5:22-23, 2 Peter 1:6, as we strive to reach perfection As we learn the truth, implementing what is needed takes self-discipline Growing as a Christian

Develop self-control Will keep you from doing things you will later regret. Will control your tongue Will keep you from engaging in bad behavior Will help you get to services on time Will provoke you to pray and study Will help you chose God over worldly pursuits Growing as a Christian

Examination 2 Corinthians 13:5, Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves… If we genuinely want to grow, from time to time, we need to take a spiritual audit. Growing as a Christian

Examination An indicator is a device that shows a state or level of something. It lets you know where you are. A spiritual indicator is an indicator that helps me see where I am as a Christian in relation to where I ought to be Growing as a Christian

Examination Some spiritual indicators? What is my priority? How much do I study the Bible? How often do I pray? How important is it that I worship properly? Am I in control of my words? How important is the church to me? Do I really care about others? Do I understand repentance? Growing as a Christian

Occasionally, we need to step back and see where we actually are. Examination The life of a Christian is NOT mere lip service or a one-time irrevocable act. Occasionally, we need to step back and see where we actually are. Growing as a Christian

With diligence Most quality work requires diligence. Typically, just doing enough to get by is inadequate. The Bible is clear – Christians are to do their best and excel! 2 Timothy 2:15, present yourself approved to God Ephesians 4:3, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace Growing as a Christian

With diligence 2 Peter 1:5-11, giving all diligence, add to your faith… Qualities we need to be continually developing – virtue (integrity), knowledge, self-control, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love Growing as a Christian

With diligence 2 Peter 1:5-11, If these things are yours and abound You will be neither barren nor unfruitful (you will be productive) You will never stumble – to miss a step, to err (cf. James 2:10, 3:2) So an entrance supplied into the everlasting kingdom (heaven – Romans 2:7) Growing as a Christian

Let us examine these qualities in our lives. If we find ourselves lacking, let us repent and seek to realize them If we find them there, let us maintain and refine them

Are you growing as you a Christian?