How It Happened

Many years ago a coworker asked me if I was a Christian. I really did not know how to answer the question. I did not know what a Christian is. He suggested that I read the Bible. I bought a Bible and read the New Testament.

After I told him that I read the New Testament he asked me if I wanted to pray and ask Jesus into my life, confess that I am a sinner and want to be forgiven. On that day I was saved, or born-again.

Jesus said, as recorded by the Apostle John in his gospel “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” John 3:3 NIV

Have you ever met anyone who had not done wrong or harmed someone in some way? "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ. Romans 3:23-24 NIV

This is what baptism really is. It is baptism by the Spirit of God, or the Holy Ghost. This is what Christ Jesus did for us.

I hope you choose to read the 66 books of the Bible. A good place to start is: John, then Acts, Matthew, Romans, Mark, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Luke and then the rest of the New Testament. After that, start at Genesis and read straight through.

The Old Testament has the history of the Jewish people, predictions of the Messiah that would come; and much wisdom in the story’s, psalms, and proverbs, and more.

The New Testament is about how Jesus fulfilled the prophesy of the Christ, or Messiah. It talks about how he recruited his apostles, what he taught, the miracles of Jesus proving who he is, and witness testimony that he was crucified and his rising 3 days later, appearing and speaking to hundreds. The New testament is where we learn about the birth of Christianity, or those saved by grace through the sacrifice made by Christ Jesus.

“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV

If you have not accepted the Christ, Jesus as your Lord and Savior now is a good time. Just ask God.

Being a Christian is choosing to be reunited with our Creator through Jesus Christ.

To know God we must pray through Jesus Christ, our Savior and redeemer.

Meaningful prayers:

Dear Lord, I am a sinner, please forgive me, teach me, and lead in your many ways as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Dear Lord, I pray for your guidance, so that my path remains straight, so that my faith remains true, and so that I serve not myself but you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Our Lord's time is near and now is the time to get that Bible and read beginning with the New Testament. Sincerely seek the truth with openness and you will grow spiritually and gain comfort in these troubling times. God's hand is held out for us and all we need to do is grasp it; so praise God, for our Lord's blessing and forgiveness for transgressions is ours. Take God's hand and walk in peace, knowing always of your place which was promised. Pray always, confessing sin to the Lord and to strengthen your relationship with God, study the Bible, associate with others who love God in fellowship, and trust in the Lord's promise of salvation through forgiveness.

Bible quotes are from the New International Version translation. It is strongly suggested that you use also the King James Version for study and verse/chapter comparison for better understanding. Bible students do well using both together.

Copyright 2009, William Timothy Giles