Since the death of Charlie Kirk many have come to see that following Christ will give you purpose and significance, even if it costs you your life. Since so many are considering Christ right now, Here are some simple helps for true seekers.
- Find a church that teaches the Bible and believes in a personal relationship with Christ. Ask the best Christians you know to help you. You may need to visit more than one. Tell a pastor or leader there what you are hoping to find and that you are needing some help. Be around those who love Jesus and this will give you understanding and added strength. God designed this.
- Find out as much as you can about what it means to become a true Christian. Here is one simple publication called Pursuing God: A Seeker’s Guide. It is a short, easy-to-read booklet. You may obtain a free copy here: https://www.ccwtoday.org/product/pursuing-god-a-seekers-guide/. If you scroll down that link, you will see how you can order a free copy, read a free pdf online, or listen to the audio book. This will answer many questions. Listen to Pursuing God here: https://www.ccwtoday.org/free-audio-video-books/#pursuinggod.
- Buy a Bible. There are several versions that are excellent, but an accurate and more readable version many Christians are using today is called the English Standard Version, or ESV. Start reading in the gospels (Mathew, Mark, Luke and John) which will show you a lot about Jesus, including the details about his death and resurrection. Ask questions so that you can begin to understand better. This is the publisher’s site which will show all the various editions you may consider: https://www.crossway.org/bibles/. You might find cheaper prices online after you decide which one you want. You may also like downloading the ESV audio app here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/esv-bible/id361797273
- When you are sure you are ready to count the cost to follow Jesus, ask to be baptized. Baptism is a way we show that we have died to the old life we used to live and are now raised to a new life. In the New Testament baptism was immersion into water (as a picture of dying to the old life), and coming up out of water (as a picture of our new life because of Christ). Declare through baptism that God has made you alive through Christ. Jesus commanded that we do this.
- Put away whatever keeps you from following Christ. It is true that you will not know complete freedom from sin until you die and go to heaven if you are one of his children. In the meantime, God will give you the ability to turn away. You will be happy to leave those sins behind you. We call this repentance.
- Pray. Prayer is simply talking with the Father. You may talk to him about anything. Pray for yourself and your growth as a seeker or new believer, and for others, and for wisdom and power. Be honest in your prayers; he knows everything about you and loves you.
If our ministry can help in any way, please let us know. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Write me at info@ccwtoday.org. Jim Elliff