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. Growing as a
Christian

4. 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

5. 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

6. Reverence toward God
If we are to grow as Christians, it will begin with seeking to understand how 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

7. 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

8. Make up your mind!
Mindset – “1. an attitude, disposition or mood. 2. An intention or inclination” (
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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

14. Occasionally, we need to step back and see where we actually are.
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?
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

15. 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

16. 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

17. 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

18. 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

19. Are you growing as you a Christian?