The New Christian

I. Introduction: Paul wrote the Corinthians “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new.” The new Christian starts a new life with a clean slate and a new direction. In the past lessons we have studied how to become a Christian. In this lesson we will learn what it means to be a Christian.

[!NOTE] Primary Scripture Reading: 1 John 1:5-10

II. I must abide in Christ

A. Recognize Jesus as the Head of the Body and our Lord

B. Galatians 3:26-29 – We are baptized into Christ’s body1 Corinthians 6:18-20 – we belong to Christ We must recognize and follow Christ’s dictates as leader of the body

C. Abide in the doctrine

D. Jesus has expressed his will through His doctrine, or teachings.

E. 1 John 2:3-6

F. Obedience is a test of our love for God By following the commands of Jesus we will live as He lived. He who does not follow the commands does not have Christ2 John 9 – abide in the doctrine in order to abide in God He who does not abide in the doctrine does not have God

G. Abide in the relationship

H. 1 John 1:5-10

I. If we walk in the light, we live in fellowship with God. If we walk in the darkness, we have no fellowship with God God will not depart from us or abandon us but we can leave Him.

III. I must grow in Christ

A. It is not enough to abide in Christ, we must also grow in Christ

B. 1 Peter 2:2 – We grow by nourishing ourselves with God’s word

C. 2 Peter 1:5-11 – We grow by becoming like Christ.

D. Add godly characteristics to our lives and let them abound If we do these things we will not stumble and will ensure our reward Hebrews 5:12-14 – We grow by practicing what we learn

E. If we do not grow in Christ we will become useless and lose our reward

F. Hebrews 10:35-39 – God is not pleased with those who draw back Hebrews 5:11-12 – We can become sluggish and disobedient

G. Growth is not an option for the physical baby or the spiritual child: both must grow or perish

IV. I must glorify God

A. Holiness

B. 1 Peter 1:13-17 – We must be holy as God is holy Colossians 1:9-10 – Walk worthy of the high calling of the gospel Colossians 3:5-10 – put off unholy living

C. Worship

D. We glorify God in song, prayer, and attention to His word

E. John 4:24 – God is seeking those who will worship Him

F. Worship is the natural outflow of the grateful heart to almighty God

G. Lord’s Supper reflects the love and thankfulness for Jesus’ death Do all acts of worship Do all in the name of the Lord

H. Not worshipping shows a lack of reverence and casual view towards God

I. Hebrews 10:25 – Not forsaking the assembling together Malachi 1:9-13 – God does not have to accept what we offer

V. I must do God’s work

A. Edification

B. Romans 14:19 – Do what makes for peace and edifies others Ephesians 4:16 – It is the responsibility of each Christian to encourage his brothers and sisters to be faithful. Romans 14:13 – We cannot be a stumblingblock to our brethren

C. Evangelism

D. 2 Timothy 2:2 – Commit to faithful men who will teach others.

E. Salvation is a wonderful gift we have been given and we should desire to share it with others.

F. People are eager to share a special recipe or recommend a restaurant. People get excited about a movie or a book and encourage you with great zeal to see it. We have a life changing relationship that gives us purpose, peace, joy, strength, a spiritual family, courage in the face of death, and the remission of sins yet are often reluctant to share it with others.

VI. Conclusion: Summary of main points. Some are reluctant to become Christians because they think they cannot do it; however, with God’s strength and our brethren’s encouragement we can grow in Christ and be useful in His kingdom. Come to God as a helpless sinner; He will save you and lead you to godliness.