WHO IS GOD?
God is introduced to us in the first chapter of the first book in the Bible in which He forms the earth, creates life, and starts the world as we know it. God is the eternal being who has no beginning or end and has always been in existence. It’s hard for us to understand this concept sometimes because as humans, we think that everything starts somewhere and ends somewhere. But God lives outside of time and knows the past, present, and future. The Bible tells us that there is only one God and that there are no other gods before or after Him. You might notice in this scripture that God said, "Let us create mankind in our image", and that's because God was not alone. God is one being separated into three distinct parts. He is Father, He is The Son, and He is the Holy Spirit.
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day” Genesis 1:1-5 NIV
“Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” Genesis 1:26-27 NIV
When you put God first in your life, you will see things begin to fall into place. You can definitely live life on your own, but it’s not an easy task. Even some of the wealthiest people in the world lack peace, love, and joy in their lives. Putting God at the very top of your priority list is not only pleasing to Him but will also attract many more godly people into your life who will encourage you and pray for you when you need it. Those who seek God above all else never seem to lack anything in their lives because God provides all of their needs. His resources in heaven are unlimited, and His love for humanity exceeds the universe. When we truly understand the importance of God in our lives and the heart He has for all of us, our lives will be transformed. We will be compelled to share His love and knowledge with others so that they may also experience the Father’s love. Let God be the author of your life and see where your story goes!
Foundational Scriptures about Jesus
Many people have accepted Christ into their lives but fail to live how He lived and to practice His teachings. Saying you accept Jesus isn’t a free ticket to heaven if you decide not to follow God and continue living without Him as you did before. Christianity is a constant journey in which your personal relationship with God grows. A Christian should be a follower of Jesus’ teachings. Accepting Jesus is just the first step.
Foundational Scriptures about God
- God Is Love - 1 John 4:7-8
- God Is Faithful And Patient - 2 Peter 3:9
- God Blesses Us - James 1:17
- God Is Light - 1 John 1:5
- God Is Perfect And Protects Us - Psalm 18:30
- God Is Our Provider - Matthew 6:26
- God Is All Knowing and Our Creator - Isaiah 40:28
- God Wants To Save Us, Not Condemn Us - John 3:16-17
- God Wants To Prosper Us - Jeremiah 29:11
- God's Main Focus Is Our Soul - Matthew 10:28
- God Corrects Us Because He Loves Us - Hebrews 12:5-7
- God Looks At Your Heart, Not Your Appearance - 1 Samuel 16:7
- God Should Come First - Matthew 6:33
When you put God first in your life, you will see things begin to fall into place. You can definitely live life on your own, but it’s not an easy task. Even some of the wealthiest people in the world lack peace, love, and joy in their lives. Putting God at the very top of your priority list is not only pleasing to Him but will also attract many more godly people into your life who will encourage you and pray for you when you need it. Those who seek God above all else never seem to lack anything in their lives because God provides all of their needs. His resources in heaven are unlimited, and His love for humanity exceeds the universe. When we truly understand the importance of God in our lives and the heart He has for all of us, our lives will be transformed. We will be compelled to share His love and knowledge with others so that they may also experience the Father’s love. Let God be the author of your life and see where your story goes!
WHO IS JESUS?
Humanity was made to have fellowship with God and rule over His creation. God gave man free will, and as people multiplied, some decided to go their own independent ways apart from God. Even Adam and Eve—who were the first to be created by God— rebelled. Through this rebellion, sin was introduced. Sin goes against everything that God intended us for, and the close fellowship we once had with God was broken by sin. Over time, people created their own gods and worshiped idols. In the Old Testament, we see constant sacrifices and battles. People also have encounters with God and ask for forgiveness in the Old Testament. God required sacrifices for forgiveness, and if we still needed to do that today, there would probably not be any animals left on the planet. Jesus came to change all of that. But in order to see what He did, we must first understand what it was like without Him.
Sinful humanity cannot be connected to a perfect and holy God. In order for us to be connected to God, we must first be cleansed of all unrighteousness and sin through sacrifice. God does not go against His own Word. He wrote the historical law that said atonement for sins could only come through sacrifice. God loved us so much and wanted to be close to His creation that He sent the ultimate sacrifice. God sent His spirit to create His Son to be sacrificed for all the sins of humankind. The Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus by the Holy Spirit, and that was the beginning of a fulfilled prophecy.
Throughout the New Testament, we see the story of Jesus, the things He did, the things He said, and the massive legacy He left. Everything that Jesus said and did went against the religious beliefs at that time. Religious officials still believed in the harsh way of the law from the Old Testament, but Jesus knew that God sent Him to change the way and offer new hope.
Sinful humanity cannot be connected to a perfect and holy God. In order for us to be connected to God, we must first be cleansed of all unrighteousness and sin through sacrifice. God does not go against His own Word. He wrote the historical law that said atonement for sins could only come through sacrifice. God loved us so much and wanted to be close to His creation that He sent the ultimate sacrifice. God sent His spirit to create His Son to be sacrificed for all the sins of humankind. The Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus by the Holy Spirit, and that was the beginning of a fulfilled prophecy.
Throughout the New Testament, we see the story of Jesus, the things He did, the things He said, and the massive legacy He left. Everything that Jesus said and did went against the religious beliefs at that time. Religious officials still believed in the harsh way of the law from the Old Testament, but Jesus knew that God sent Him to change the way and offer new hope.
Foundational Scriptures about Jesus
- Man Is Sinful - Romans 3:23
- Man Is Separated - Romans 6:23
- Jesus Is the Son of God - John 20:31
- God Sent Jesus To Save Us - John 3:16
- Jesus Died In Our Place - Romans 5:8
- Jesus Connects Us Back To God - John 14:6
- We Receive Christ Through Faith - Ephesians 2:8-9
- Accepting Christ Covers All Sin - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Many people have accepted Christ into their lives but fail to live how He lived and to practice His teachings. Saying you accept Jesus isn’t a free ticket to heaven if you decide not to follow God and continue living without Him as you did before. Christianity is a constant journey in which your personal relationship with God grows. A Christian should be a follower of Jesus’ teachings. Accepting Jesus is just the first step.
WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit has no physical attributes in our world and therefore cannot be seen. But just like the wind cannot be seen, the Holy Spirit can be felt and experienced, and there is evidence that the Holy Spirit exists. In the Bible, we see the Holy Spirit described as a dove, as fire, and as wind. The Holy Spirit is the power of God that moves in this earth and raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Before the day of the Crucifixion, Jesus told the disciples that after His death God would send them a helper to assist them in their commission to spread the Gospel to the nations.
“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” Acts 2:1-4 NIV
In chapter 2 of Acts, we see that the outpouring of Holy Spirit fell upon those who were in the upper room. The Spirit has not stopped pouring into God’s people and still works through common Christians. We have to understand who He is and what He does because the Holy Spirit is our connection to God and God’s power. Without the Holy Spirit, we are powerless.
Foundational Scriptures about the Holy Spirit
Foundational Scriptures about the Bible
The Bible shows us not only the history of where we came from and the way things were, but it also gives us a clear picture of the life of Jesus and how He ministered. Jesus is the perfect example of how we should live our lives, and the Bible is the only way to learn how Jesus lived so that we may model our own lives after Him. The Bible also convicts people of their sins, corrects people when they’re wrong, and inspires believers to love God and others just like Jesus did.
But there is a permanent solution for our problems! God sent his son Jesus to teach us how to live righteously before he died for us on the cross! Jesus paid the ultimate price by giving his life on the cross and taking the punishment for the sins of all mankind. The Bible says that God will forgive those who place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their Personal Lord and Savior. Accepting Jesus and asking God to forgive us of our sins, keeps us from hell and allows us to join God in heaven when we die. The Bible tells us that there is only one God and that way is Jesus. "Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6. Through Jesus, God forgives all of our past, present and even future sins! This is all possible by placing our faith and trust in Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
If you want purpose, peace, and freedom from sin, then you can receive Jesus right now by praying this simple life-changing prayer: Dear God, I turn away from my sins and ask you to forgive me. I confess with my lips and believe in my heart that Jesus is your Son. I believe that He died on the cross and rose from the dead as the sacrifice for my sins, so that I may have eternal life. Jesus, I ask you into my life as my Lord and Savior forever. Amen!
Church cultures, practices, beliefs, and structures vary greatly depending on denomination, location, and leadership. This doesn't mean that tons of churches are wrong, it just makes us different. Diversity in the Body of Christ is crucial because we are told in 1 Corinthians 12 that we are many members of One Body. Bodies need multiple parts to operate in their individual functions in order for things to flow smoothly. If everybody part was exactly the same, we would be missing a huge chunk of our potential!
We all have personal preferences and individual needs according to our season in life and callings. Some people prefer traditional pews and dressy outfits while others prefer individual chairs and a casual environment. Whether you enjoy hymns or modern music, keep in mind that there are more important things to be looking for. Don't get so caught up in your personal preferences of appearance and style that you completely forget to look for what truly matters. Pay attention to leadership and the fruit of the ministry!
In chapter 2 of Acts, we see that the outpouring of Holy Spirit fell upon those who were in the upper room. The Spirit has not stopped pouring into God’s people and still works through common Christians. We have to understand who He is and what He does because the Holy Spirit is our connection to God and God’s power. Without the Holy Spirit, we are powerless.
Foundational Scriptures about the Holy Spirit
- Holy Spirit Brings Life - Matthew 1:18
- Holy Spirit Lives In Us And Comforts Us - John 14:16-18
- Holy Spirit Teaches Us and Reminds Us - John 14:26
- Holy Spirit Helps Us Live With Godly Character - Galatians 5:22-23
- Holy Spirit Gives Us Supernatural Gifts - 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
- Holy Spirit Gives Us Spiritual Insight - Joel 2:28
WHERE DID THE BIBLE COME FROM?
The Holy Bible is where Christians receive the written Word of God. It consists of 66 books which are 39 Old Testament and 27 are New Testament. The Bible carries not only historical text and timelines but also the true inspiration ordained by God that gives us answers about how to live. In God’s Word, there are countless stories about how God moved in the lives of people through miracles, encounters, revelation, and His prophets and leaders. The Bible sets a standard of living, gives us insight on the tools available for us to live holy and blessed lives. It also commissions us to spread what we have learned to all who need to be saved by Jesus and receive spiritual guidance and encouragement.
The Holy Bible was written over a period of sixteen hundred years, penned over sixty generations, and composed by more than forty authors who were divinely inspired by God and the Holy Spirit. The books now contained in the Bible were written in different parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. The original books were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek before being compiled and translated into Latin in AD 400. By 1966 the Holy Bible had been translated into 240 different languages. Today the entire Bible is available in 531 languages, and at least a portion of the Bible is translated into 2883 languages. Today, there are different English translations of the Bible available for purchase. Because it was originally written in different languages, there are different sentence structures and interpretations of specific words in English.
The Holy Bible was not just written for historical information and knowledge. The Bible was written in a way that can be understood. There are many spiritual truths in the Bible that are easily understood because they are explained with metaphors and natural concepts. In some cases, scripture helps interpret the meaning of other scripture. When interpreting scripture, the context of the surrounding verses should also be taken into consideration. No doctrine should be formed from an uncertain passage or a metaphorical explanation. The entire purpose of the written Word of God is to guide humankind into spiritual growth and point them to their Savior: Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
The Holy Bible was written over a period of sixteen hundred years, penned over sixty generations, and composed by more than forty authors who were divinely inspired by God and the Holy Spirit. The books now contained in the Bible were written in different parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. The original books were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek before being compiled and translated into Latin in AD 400. By 1966 the Holy Bible had been translated into 240 different languages. Today the entire Bible is available in 531 languages, and at least a portion of the Bible is translated into 2883 languages. Today, there are different English translations of the Bible available for purchase. Because it was originally written in different languages, there are different sentence structures and interpretations of specific words in English.
The Holy Bible was not just written for historical information and knowledge. The Bible was written in a way that can be understood. There are many spiritual truths in the Bible that are easily understood because they are explained with metaphors and natural concepts. In some cases, scripture helps interpret the meaning of other scripture. When interpreting scripture, the context of the surrounding verses should also be taken into consideration. No doctrine should be formed from an uncertain passage or a metaphorical explanation. The entire purpose of the written Word of God is to guide humankind into spiritual growth and point them to their Savior: Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Foundational Scriptures about the Bible
- The Bible Is Inspired By God - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
- The Bible Changes Lives - Hebrews 4:12
- The Bible Encourages Us - Hebrews 10:24-25
- The Bible Delivers God’s Truth - Acts 17:11
The Bible shows us not only the history of where we came from and the way things were, but it also gives us a clear picture of the life of Jesus and how He ministered. Jesus is the perfect example of how we should live our lives, and the Bible is the only way to learn how Jesus lived so that we may model our own lives after Him. The Bible also convicts people of their sins, corrects people when they’re wrong, and inspires believers to love God and others just like Jesus did.
NEED TO ACCEPT JESUS?
Did you know that God loves you? He created you, wants a relationship with you, and ultimately wants to spend eternity in heaven with you! In order for you to have a relationship with God, you must first ask Him into your heart. Why? Because He created us and He loves us. God has freely given us the gift of eternal life and all we have to do is accept Him. We live in a broken and fallen world full of addictions, poverty, death, and destruction. Often times we fail to recognize that God is waiting for us to look to Him for guidance and for support. The daily things we deal with in life can distract us and confuse us. Guilt, shame, and sin drive us away from a merciful, gracious, and loving God.
"For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard." Romans 3:23 NLT
But there is a permanent solution for our problems! God sent his son Jesus to teach us how to live righteously before he died for us on the cross! Jesus paid the ultimate price by giving his life on the cross and taking the punishment for the sins of all mankind. The Bible says that God will forgive those who place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their Personal Lord and Savior. Accepting Jesus and asking God to forgive us of our sins, keeps us from hell and allows us to join God in heaven when we die. The Bible tells us that there is only one God and that way is Jesus. "Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6. Through Jesus, God forgives all of our past, present and even future sins! This is all possible by placing our faith and trust in Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9 ESV
If you want purpose, peace, and freedom from sin, then you can receive Jesus right now by praying this simple life-changing prayer: Dear God, I turn away from my sins and ask you to forgive me. I confess with my lips and believe in my heart that Jesus is your Son. I believe that He died on the cross and rose from the dead as the sacrifice for my sins, so that I may have eternal life. Jesus, I ask you into my life as my Lord and Savior forever. Amen!
NOW WHAT?
Do not be discouraged when things get crazy and some of your friends become upset with you for becoming a Christian. The Bible says "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me." Matthew 5:11 When you first give your life to Christ, the devil will try to distract you and move you away from God when trials come your way.
God gave us His Word as a defense against the devil! Join our church if you don't attend one already and join a Bible study group! As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ it is important that you belong to a group of believers. Why? A Christian on their own will not be as effective for God compared to a Christian within a body of believers. Christians need to be held accountable to one another and that can't be done outside of a church or study group. So, don't just attend a church--belong to one, get involved and serve Christ with the gifts He's blessed you with.
Prayer is how we communicate with God. God loves His children and loves to hear from us! There is no formula for praying correctly. Prayer is simply talking to God as you would talk your best friend. So pray out loud and consider what a blessing it is to communicate with God. He knows your needs and desires of your heart before you tell Him, but He loves to hear it from us anyways! Once you begin to pray on a frequent basis, you will see how God truly listens and answers you through people, places, and "coincidental" events.
We share the "Good News" of Jesus Christ because the Bible tells us to! "Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus wants us to share His love and grace with everyone and gave us sense of urgency for those that do not know the Lord. We are saved by grace to do good works, so we can help others in need!
God gave us His Word as a defense against the devil! Join our church if you don't attend one already and join a Bible study group! As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ it is important that you belong to a group of believers. Why? A Christian on their own will not be as effective for God compared to a Christian within a body of believers. Christians need to be held accountable to one another and that can't be done outside of a church or study group. So, don't just attend a church--belong to one, get involved and serve Christ with the gifts He's blessed you with.
Prayer is how we communicate with God. God loves His children and loves to hear from us! There is no formula for praying correctly. Prayer is simply talking to God as you would talk your best friend. So pray out loud and consider what a blessing it is to communicate with God. He knows your needs and desires of your heart before you tell Him, but He loves to hear it from us anyways! Once you begin to pray on a frequent basis, you will see how God truly listens and answers you through people, places, and "coincidental" events.
We share the "Good News" of Jesus Christ because the Bible tells us to! "Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20
Jesus wants us to share His love and grace with everyone and gave us sense of urgency for those that do not know the Lord. We are saved by grace to do good works, so we can help others in need!
FINDING THE RIGHT CHURCH
No church is perfect and our perception of a specific church can be different from others depending on what we're looking for. If you want to know more about a church you would like to visit, you can start by checking out their official ministry website, social media pages, or call their office and ask questions. Don't be moved by the size of the church itself, some of the most amazingly spirit-filled and spirit-led churches are small in number but great in power! Below are listed 10 traits of godly leadership and 10 traits of a healthy church. Our personal preferences can vary, but the core of what matters in a good church is plain and simple.
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Godly Leadership Traits
1. Recognizes value in people 2. Communicates with other leaders effectively 3. Has godly character and morals 4. Uses their influence to help others 5. Is skillful and knowledgeable in their area of ministry 6. Is not threatened by the success of others 7. Serves others without expecting anything in return 8. Always remains teachable and humble 9. Is approachable and friendly 10. Always looking out for the best interest of people |
Healthy Church Traits
1. Uncompromised Biblical teachings 2. Impactful worship experience 3. People have passion for the Lord 4. Heartfelt altar and prayer moments 5. Disciples are being made 6. Loving sense of family and community 7. New leaders are being developed 8. Outreach and community involvement 9. Effective communication 10. Visitors become members |
Church cultures, practices, beliefs, and structures vary greatly depending on denomination, location, and leadership. This doesn't mean that tons of churches are wrong, it just makes us different. Diversity in the Body of Christ is crucial because we are told in 1 Corinthians 12 that we are many members of One Body. Bodies need multiple parts to operate in their individual functions in order for things to flow smoothly. If everybody part was exactly the same, we would be missing a huge chunk of our potential!
We all have personal preferences and individual needs according to our season in life and callings. Some people prefer traditional pews and dressy outfits while others prefer individual chairs and a casual environment. Whether you enjoy hymns or modern music, keep in mind that there are more important things to be looking for. Don't get so caught up in your personal preferences of appearance and style that you completely forget to look for what truly matters. Pay attention to leadership and the fruit of the ministry!
- If you're a new believer, see if the church has resources or classes for you to grow
- If you left another church due to "church hurt", speak to leadership about receiving counsel and inner healing
- If you left another church due to personal reasons, speak to leadership and share your heart with them
- If you have been distant from God for a while, speak to leadership about receiving counsel and discipleship
"Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:23-25 NLT
Wherever you get plugged in, make sure you can agree and come into alignment with the official Vision and Mission of the church, as well as their Core Values. Choosing to root yourself in a church that you don't agree with is a recipe for chaos and spiritual warfare. Pray deeply about where you belong and let God guide you. Once you're rooted in a church, follow the Lord's direction and do whatever he asks of you. Whether you're just quietly receiving, volunteering, or leading a ministry, do it with all your heart and support the ministry to the best of your ability. Not every church is a good fit for you, stay sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and go where he leads!
