A disciple of Jesus Christ is a student or follower of Jesus who is committed to learning His ways. Becoming a Christian is becoming a disciple.
Is Jesus Christ your Savior and Lord? Here is the "roadmap" for becoming a Christian.
1. Understanding the Core Message
At the heart of Christianity is the Gospel (which literally means "good news").
The Problem: Humanity is separated from God by "sin" (actions or attitudes that fall short of God’s character). Sin results in death and condemnation.
The Solution: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, bridged that gap through His life, death, and resurrection.
The Gift: Relationship with God isn't earned by being "good enough"; it’s a gift received through faith.
2. The "ABC" Steps
Many people use this simple framework to describe the internal shift of becoming a believer:
A - Admit: Acknowledge that you aren't perfect and need God’s grace. This is often called repentance—a change of mind and direction.
B - Believe: Trust that Jesus is who He said he is and that His sacrifice covers your past.
C - Confess: Declare your faith in Jesus Christ.
3. The Role of Baptism
Baptism is a sacrament that serves as a "sign and seal" of God’s covenant of grace. Rather than just a personal public statement, it’s a visible mark of belonging to God’s family.
Because God’s love reaches out to us before we can even process it, we baptize both infants (as children of believers) and adults. The water symbolizes being washed clean and joined to the body of Christ, emphasizing that grace is a gift from God rather than a reward for our own efforts.
4. Joining a Community
Christianity is rarely practiced in a vacuum. Most believers are drawn to a church to:
Worship God with other Christians, giving thanks for all He has done for us in Jesus Christ.
Grow in the knowledge of God's Word and be equipped for discipleship.
Enjoy the support and encouragement of the church family and share in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper.
Engage in mission and outreach with other believers.
Church membership isn't like joining a social club or a non-profit organization. It’s the public response to God’s grace—a way of saying, "I belong to God, and I belong to this specific family of believers."
Want to know more?
Be sure to view the "Christianity Explained Logically" video under the Forms, Policies, & Learning on our website. And our Pastor would LOVE to talk with you. :)
The process is generally straightforward but involves a few intentional steps. If you feel led to join this church family, please talk with Pastor Randall to begin. Here's how it works:
Pastor Randall will hold a New Member Class (sometimes called "Inquirers' Class"). This is a low-pressure way to learn all about the Christian faith and New Bethlehem Church. Pastor Randall will discuss the Vows of Discipleship and Membership so that you understand the core tenents of faith and are comfortable moving to the next step.
The Session (the governing body of elders) is responsible for receiving new members. You’ll have a brief, friendly meeting with them. The pastor will ask you the Vows of Discipleship and Membership (discussed above).
Depending on your background, you join in one of three ways:
Profession of Faith: If you’ve never been a member of a church or baptized, you join by declaring your faith in Jesus Christ.
Reaffirmation of Faith: If you were active in another church but haven't been lately, you simply reaffirm your faith in Jesus Christ and commitment to His church.
Letter of Transfer: If you are moving from another Christian denomination or another Presbyterian church, your "membership record" is simply transferred to New Bethlehem.
Presbyterians recognize all Christian baptisms. If you were baptized as an infant or in another denomination (Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, etc.), you will not be re-baptized. If you have never been baptized, this sacrament will be performed as part of your joining process.
Finally, you’ll be introduced to the congregation during a Sunday service. You’ll stand at the front, answer the Vows of Discipleship and Membership, and the congregation will welcome you. Our deacons will hold a New Member's Reception after the worship service.