Being a Christian

The term, "Christian," was first used by the pagans in Antioch to describe those who were following the teachings of Jesus Christ (Acts 11:26). It was meant as a derogatory term against those who were acting like "little Christs" in their actions and attitudes. A Christian is someone who is a follower of the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Many people claim to be Christians, but their claim is true only in a cultural sense, not a Biblical one. A true Christian is conscious that apart from Jesus Christ they are hopelessly separated from God (Ephesians 2:12), because they have broken God's laws and are guilty before Him (James 2:10; Romans 3:9-23) and incapable of doing righteousness (Isaiah 64:6). They are aware of Christ's death and resurrection and understand the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice in dealing with their sin (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). They have received grace from God by which the Holy Spirit enables them to believe the facts of the gospel and then to volitionally place their faith in Christ alone to provide forgiveness of sin and everlasting life (John 3:16; 4:16; Acts 4:12; 16:31; Ephesians 2:8-10).

As a result of salvation, a true Christian will serve the Lord (Ephesians 2:10) and strive to be obedient to Him (John 14:21) out of a changed nature (2 Corinthians 5:17) and a response of love for what God has done (1 John 4:19).

Grace Bible Church exists to glorify God by making disciples of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19,20). We desire to help those still lost in their sins to place their faith in Jesus, and we desire to help those professing to be Christians live in obedience to Christ and for His glory.