If you are a new believer, you have just experienced the beginning of your new, eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)
16 “For 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. In addition to the wonderful blessings of knowing Christ, you might be thinking, “Now what? What is the next step?” We are providing some “Next Step” suggestions for you below.
1. Begin reading the Bible.
There are many translations and numerous places to start. While there is no perfect translation, we recommend you choose a Bible that is easy for you to understand and is faithful to the original text of the Bible. To sample some of today’s popular translations, you can go to websites such as BibleGateway.com or YouVersion.com. We recommend that you begin your reading with the Gospel of John or one of the other Gospels to read for yourself what Jesus taught and did during His time on earth.
2. Begin praying.Prayer is simply talking with God. If we desire to know God more deeply, we must communicate with Him regularly. Throughout each day, you can give thanks to God, ask Him to answer your daily needs, and pray on behalf of others. It’s also important to pray together with others who follow Christ, encouraging each other, praising God, and seeking answers to everyone’s requests.
3. Be baptized.
Baptism symbolizes your new life in Christ and proclaims that you are now committed to Jesus. Even Jesus was baptized (Luke 3:1-22), and He calls His followers to also be baptized. Baptism was practiced by the very first followers of Jesus in Acts 2:41.
At the Vineyard, we have baptism celebrations throughout the year. Check the calendar for the next scheduled Baptism event. Or you can ask any of the staff to help you find out when the next baptism event is scheduled.
4. Build friendships with others Christians.
The Christian life is designed to be enjoyed with others. Jesus invested much of His ministry with 12 disciples as His closest friends. He likewise calls us to live in community with one another. The New Testament has over 50 “one another” verses that refer to loving one another, serving one another, encouraging one another, and praying for one another. Each of these commands requires relationships with other Christians. A great way to build these relationships is by attending one of the Small Groups that are ongoing at the Vineyard.
5. Help others.
As you begin your new life as a Christian, you will find a new love inside you giving you a desire to help others. There are many opportunities for Serving available at the Vineyard.
6. Take your Next Step at the Vineyard.
As a believer, becoming a part of the church is an important part of your life in Christ. Find out how to take the next step in getting plugged in at the Vineyard by visiting the Next Steps page.
