Before we begin

Have you put your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?

Your answer to this question matters more than anything else on this page. If you are unsure, keep reading—we will explain what it means to trust in Jesus.

✦ New to Christianity?

Start here. Take your next step with Jesus.

You do not need to have everything figured out. This page gives you a simple place to begin learning who Jesus is, what salvation means, and how to start growing in your faith.

Christianity begins with Jesus

Christian faith is not mainly about trying harder, becoming religious, or earning God’s approval. It begins with the good news that God loves us and sent Jesus Christ to rescue us from sin and bring us into a restored relationship with Him.

Jesus died for our sins, rose from the dead, and offers forgiveness and eternal life to everyone who turns to Him in repentance and faith.

A good verse to remember

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16

Six simple steps to begin

These are not steps to earn salvation. They are practical ways to begin knowing God and growing as a follower of Jesus.

1

Understand the Gospel

We have all sinned and cannot save ourselves. Jesus took the punishment for our sin and rose again so we could be forgiven and reconciled to God.

2

Trust in Jesus

Salvation is God’s gift, received by grace through faith. Turn from sin and place your trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

3

Begin to Pray

Prayer is simply talking honestly with God. Thank Him, ask for help, confess sin, and bring your questions and needs to Him.

4

Read the Bible

Start with the Gospel of John. Read a small section each day and ask: What does this teach me about Jesus, truth, and how I should live?

5

Find a Faithful Church

Look for a local church that teaches the Bible clearly, keeps Jesus and the gospel central, and helps believers grow in community.

6

Keep Growing

Following Jesus is a lifelong journey. Learn, obey, ask questions, serve others, and trust the Holy Spirit to make you more like Christ.

Where should I read first?

Begin with the Gospel of John. It was written to help people understand who Jesus is and believe in Him. Try one chapter a day, or read slowly and take notes.

After John, continue with Acts to see how the early church began, then read Romans for a deeper explanation of the gospel.

You do not have to grow alone

Questions are welcome. Growth happens through Scripture, prayer, healthy Christian relationships, and participation in a faithful local church.

A simple prayer to begin

God, I know that I have sinned and need Your forgiveness. I believe Jesus died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sin and place my trust in Jesus Christ. Help me know You, follow You, understand Your Word, and live the life You created me to live. Amen.

This prayer does not save you because of the words themselves. Salvation comes through genuine repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.