Now What? A Guide for New Believers. 

Congratulations! You’ve taken the monumental step of placing your faith in Jesus Christ. Now that you’ve made this life-changing decision, you may be wondering, “What’s next?” This article will guide you through five essential steps to deepen your faith and grow in your relationship with God.

Essential Number 1 — Be Assured of Your Salvation

“I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” — John 10:28

One of the first things you should do after believing in Jesus is to anchor yourself in the assurance of your salvation. As John 10:28 assures us, Jesus promises eternal life to those who believe in Him. Rest in the knowledge that once you belong to Him, nothing can snatch you from His hand. This assurance provides a solid foundation for your journey of faith.

Action Step: Memorize John 10:28. 

Essential Number 2 — Get Baptized

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” — Matthew 28:19

Following Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19, baptism is the outward expression of your inward faith. It symbolizes your identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, and marks your entrance into the community of believers. By obeying this command, you publicly declare your commitment to following Jesus and joining His mission to make disciples.

Action Step: Go to https://www.knoll.org/baptism and step up your baptism!

Essential Number 3 — Begin Reading Your Bible

“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” — Psalm 119:11

The Bible is God’s Word and the primary way He communicates with us. Psalm 119:11 reminds us of the importance of storing God’s Word in our hearts. Start by immersing yourself in the Gospels, which tell the story of Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Starting with The Gospel Of Matthew, then Mark, Luke and John, aim to read one chapter each day, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to you through Scripture.

Action Step: Begin the Gospel Reading Challenge. 

Essential Number 4 — Pray Every Day

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Prayer is essential for nurturing your relationship with God. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, we are encouraged to pray without ceasing, rejoicing always, and giving thanks in all circumstances. Establish a daily habit of prayer, where you can pour out your heart to God, seek His guidance, and express gratitude for His blessings. Remember the acronym CHAT: Confession, Honor, Ask, and Thanksgiving. This simple structure can guide your prayers and deepen your intimacy with God.

Action Step: Begin to pray daily, using the CHAT prayer method.

Essential Number 5 — Commit to Community

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” — Hebrews 10:24-25

God designed us to thrive in community, both with other believers and with Him. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us not to neglect meeting together but to encourage one another in love and good works. Joining a local church provides opportunities for fellowship, worship, discipleship, and service. Additionally, consider connecting with a Community Group where you can grow alongside others who share your faith. Together, you can support and challenge one another as you walk this journey of faith.

Action Step: Join a Community Group (knoll.org/community)

As you begin this new chapter of your life as a believer, remember that it is a journey filled with joys, challenges, and opportunities for growth. By following these essential steps—assuring your salvation, getting baptized, reading your Bible, praying daily, and committing to community—you will lay a strong foundation for a vibrant and flourishing faith. May you continue to grow in your relationship with God and experience the abundant life that Jesus promised to those who believe in Him.

I'm Cheering for You!

Pastor Chris