Many people view Christianity as just a religion, a set of rules, or a cultural tradition. But true Christianity is much more than that—it is a relationship with Jesus Christ and a commitment to follow His teachings and the example of the early apostles. Jesus didn’t come to establish rituals or empty traditions; He came to restore mankind’s relationship with God through the gospel of repentance, obedience, and discipleship.
The Gospel Begins with Repentance
Jesus’ first message in His public ministry was repentance. He declared, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). Repentance is not just feeling sorry for sin; it is a complete change of heart, turning away from sin and surrendering to God. Without repentance, there is no true salvation.
The early apostles preached the same message. Peter, on the day of Pentecost, told the crowd: “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38). True Christianity begins with a heart transformed by repentance, leading to a life of obedience.
The Fear of the Lord Leads to Obedience
A genuine relationship with Jesus is marked by the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” This fear is not about terror or dread; it is a deep reverence and awe for God, recognizing His holiness and authority over our lives.
When we truly fear the Lord, we seek to obey His commands. Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Obedience is not an option for a true disciple; it is the evidence of genuine faith. Many today want the blessings of salvation without surrendering to God’s will. But the Bible is clear—faith without obedience is dead (James 2:17). True faith produces a desire to walk in righteousness and align our lives with God’s will.
Discipleship: Teaching Others to Follow Jesus
Jesus did not call us just to believe in Him—He called us to follow Him and make disciples. His last command before ascending to heaven was:
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20).
Discipleship is the heart of Christianity. It is not enough to attend church or read the Bible occasionally; we are called to grow in our knowledge of Christ and help others do the same.
The early apostles demonstrated this by devoting themselves to teaching and mentoring new believers. Paul told Timothy, “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). Christianity is meant to be passed down through faithful discipleship, equipping others to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
Knowing the Word and Teaching Others
One of the greatest responsibilities of a believer is to know the Word of God and teach it to others. Many today struggle in their faith because they lack biblical knowledge. Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). Just as physical food nourishes the body, God’s Word nourishes our spirit.
Paul instructed Timothy, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). We cannot teach others if we ourselves do not know the truth. This is why daily study, meditation, and application of Scripture are essential.
Teaching others to follow Christ is not limited to pastors or church leaders. Every believer is called to share the truth. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we must be bold witnesses for Christ, leading others to the truth of the gospel.
Living a Life That Reflects Christ
Christianity is not just about knowing Christ—it’s about becoming like Him. The early apostles lived lives of holiness, love, and sacrifice. Paul said, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Our lives should reflect Jesus in our words, actions, and character.
A true relationship with Jesus transforms every aspect of our lives. We no longer live for ourselves but for His glory. When we walk in obedience, disciple others, and remain grounded in His Word, we experience the fullness of life in Christ.
Final Thoughts
Christianity is not just a label—it is a lifestyle of devotion, obedience, and discipleship. It begins with repentance, is sustained by the fear of the Lord, and is expressed through obedience and teaching others. Jesus is calling His followers to rise up, know His Word, and make disciples.
Will you answer the call? Will you commit to truly following Jesus and leading others to Him? Now is the time to deepen your relationship with Christ and live out the gospel in every area of your life. Walk in obedience, share the truth, and be a disciple who makes disciples.
