1. What it means to be a
Christian

2. 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

3. Hindrances to Becoming a
Christian

4. Some simply don’t believe
We are living in times when fewer believe in the Bible or God.
Even more reject the necessity of the Bible
World religions, ecumenism and worldviews also contribute to religious confusion
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

5. Some simply don’t believe
But the Bible demands that we believe in God and the Son, as well as its teachings
2 Corinthians 4:3-4 the gospel is veiled to those who do not believe
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

6. Some simply don’t believe
Luke 8:5, 12 – the wayside
John 12:37-40, 6:64 – they did not believe Him
2 Thessalonians 2:12
There is not much we can do for a hardened heart until he rethinks his life
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

7. Faulty thinking
Contributing to unbelief, there are many who think wrong about their salvation and the gospel
Psalm 94:11, the thoughts of man are futile
Romans 1:21, man became futile in their thoughts
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

8. Faulty thinking Some say:
I’m not good enough – Titus 3:4-5, Romans 5:8
I’m good enough – Isaiah 64:6, Romans 3:10, Titus 3:5
I have plenty of time – James 4:14
I hate God – He is blamed for all that is wrong in one’s life and/or in the world
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

9. Faulty thinking Some say: I’m not lost – false plans Matthew 7:21-23
Obeying the gospel begins with proper thinking – 2 Corinthians 10:5, Acts 2:37
Faulty thinking will leave one lost!
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

10. They don’t want to deal with sin
To be a Christian, you must deal with your sins – Acts 22:16, 1 John 3:9, Romans 6:1-2
We have a sin problem with our society
John 3:18-19, Job 24:13-17, 2 Timothy 3:1-5
The love of sin has also watered down the truth (cf. 2 Timothy 4:2-4)
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

11. Consequences
Some understand the truth, but are not willing to accept the consequences
Becoming a Christian is politically incorrect, cf. John 12:43
It may cost you your job or other opportunities
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

12. Consequences It may cost you your family, Matthew 10:34-38
Accepting the truth might mean family is lost – cf. Luke 16:27-28
Will we pay the price? Luke 14:33. Jesus did! 1 Peter 2:24
John 15:18
Consider the cost of rejecting Him – Matthew 16:26
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

13. Hypocrisy God despises hypocrisy James 3:17
Right or wrong, when we are hypocritical it can drive people away
It gives “fuel” to our critics. Are we inconsistent as a society?
We can live without hypocrisy – Romans 12:9
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

14. Ignorance
Many don’t know what they need to do. Or they have been taught error
Ignorance will not save – Acts 17:30-31
In this we can do something! Let us not be the reason why some are ignorant!
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

15. “One thing you lack” Luke 18:22, the rich, young ruler
His love for money kept him from following Jesus
Many today have that “one thing” that keeps them from obeying the gospel!
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

16. Dealing with hindrances
Most of these require them to accept the need for change Romans 14:12
Knowing what hinders can help us prepare to help SOME overcome their hindrances – cf. 2 Corinthians 5:10-11
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

17. Dealing with hindrances
Let your light shine – Philippians 2:15 Even among our enemies – Matthew 5:44-48
Help them overcome ignorance and faulty thinking with the truth – 1 Peter 3:15, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

18. Dealing with hindrances
Teach if you can, some are still willing to study
We may need to back off for awhile! But don’t forget about them
Don’t let them drag you down spiritually – 2 Corinthians 6:14-18
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

19. Dealing with hindrances
Pray for them! They need it!
Put it in God’s hands – 1 Corinthians 3:6
(More on these tonight!)
Hindrances to
Becoming a
Christian

20. Are these reasons, or are they excuses
Are these reasons, or are they excuses? John 5:39-40, You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.

21. Don’t let hindrances keep you out of heaven!