BECOMING A TRUE CHRISTIAN
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: John 3:1-7
Supporting Texts: Romans 10:9-10, Acts 2:37-38, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 2:20, Luke 9:23
INTRODUCTION:
While many people identify as Christians by culture or background, Jesus was clear that becoming a true Christian begins with a spiritual rebirth. Being a true Christian is not inherited—it is a decision that involves a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. It is more than religious activity; it is a supernatural transformation by the Spirit of God.
When Nicodemus came to Jesus, he was a religious leader who knew the Scriptures, yet Jesus told him plainly that unless a man is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God. This shows that no amount of morality, tradition, or knowledge can replace the new birth experience.
To become a true Christian, one must follow the path laid out in Scripture: repentance, faith in Christ, transformation by the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to follow Christ daily. Let us explore how we can walk this path and become the Christians that God has called us to be.
1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR NEED FOR SALVATION
Becoming a true Christian begins with the realisation that you are a sinner in need of a Saviour.
a) Everyone Has Sinned (Romans 3:23)
All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory.
b) Sin Separates Us from God (Isaiah 59:2)
Our iniquities have made a separation between us and God.
c) Realisation is the First Step to Redemption (Luke 18:13)
The tax collector’s humble prayer brought him justification.
d) Without Christ, We are Spiritually Dead (Ephesians 2:1)
Only Jesus can bring us from death to life.
Biblical Example: The prodigal son realised his need and returned to the father with humility (Luke 15:17–20).
2. REPENT AND TURN TO GOD
True Christianity begins with repentance—a change of heart and direction.
a) Repentance Means Turning from Sin (Acts 3:19)
Repent and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out.
b) God is Willing to Forgive All Who Turn to Him (1 John 1:9)
If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive.
c) Godly Sorrow Produces True Repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10)
Worldly sorrow leads to death, but godly sorrow brings change.
d) Repentance is Proven by Actions (Matthew 3:8)
Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.
Biblical Example: Zacchaeus’ repentance led to a changed life and restoration (Luke 19:8–9).
3. BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST AS YOUR LORD AND SAVIOUR
Faith in Jesus is the foundation of true Christianity.
a) Salvation Comes Through Faith Alone (Romans 10:9–10)
Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth.
b) Jesus is the Only Way to God (John 14:6)
No one comes to the Father except through Him.
c) Faith Leads to Righteousness (Romans 5:1)
We are justified by faith and have peace with God.
d) Believing in Christ Means Trusting and Following Him (John 1:12)
To all who received Him, He gave power to become children of God.
Biblical Example: The thief on the cross believed and was assured paradise (Luke 23:42–43).
4. BE TRANSFORMED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT
Becoming a true Christian means living a new life in the power of the Holy Spirit.
a) You Must Be Born Again of the Spirit (John 3:5–6)
That which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
b) The Holy Spirit Produces New Life (Titus 3:5)
We are saved by the washing and renewal of the Holy Spirit.
c) A True Christian Shows the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23)
Love, joy, peace, and others are the evidence of inner change.
d) Transformation is a Continuous Process (2 Corinthians 3:18)
We are being changed from glory to glory.
Biblical Example: Saul became Paul after his conversion and was radically transformed (Acts 9:17–22).
5. FOLLOW JESUS DAILY WITH COMMITMENT
Christianity is not a one-time decision—it is a lifelong journey of obedience.
a) Take Up Your Cross Daily (Luke 9:23)
Follow Christ wholeheartedly, even when it costs something.
b) Abide in Christ to Remain Fruitful (John 15:5)
Apart from Him, we can do nothing.
c) Obedience Proves Discipleship (John 8:31)
Continue in His Word, then you are truly His disciple.
d) Endure to the End (Matthew 24:13)
Those who endure shall be saved.
Biblical Example: The early disciples followed Christ despite persecution and changed the world (Acts 2:42–47).
CONCLUSION:
Becoming a true Christian is not about religion, but relationship. It starts with acknowledging your need for God, repenting of sin, believing in Jesus, being born of the Spirit, and choosing to follow Christ daily. This life leads to peace with God, a transformed heart, and eternal hope.
As you embrace the path of true Christianity, the Lord will walk with you, strengthen you, and use you to bring others to Him. It is the most fulfilling life anyone can live.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, open my eyes to my need for salvation.
2. I repent of every sin and turn to You with my whole heart.
3. I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour.
4. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and transform my life.
5. Help me to follow You faithfully all the days of my life.
