To understand what it means to become a true Christian, to accept Christ personally, we’ll examine the very first sermon ever uttered on the subject found in the book of Acts at an event called “Pentecost” where the church first began.
- “Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ -- this Jesus whom you crucified.” Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?”
- —Acts 2:36-37
The critical first step in the process is believing and acknowledging that God has made Jesus both your Lord (King) and Christ (Savior).
Peter arrived at this point in his conversion experience by the Sea of Galilee when after following Jesus’ ministry for awhile, it became real to Peter personally when he finally recognized that Jesus was no mere man or prophet or teacher.
- “But when Simon Peter saw that, he fell down at Jesus’ feet, saying, ‘Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!’”
- —Luke 5:8
Just as this acknowledgment pierced the hearts of those hearing Peter’s words and so changed their life, so you must believe that Jesus must become your personal King and Savior above all else. It’s the dual recognition of Christ’s authority over your life and that He is the only One that can provide salvation through the forgiveness of your sinful life.
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