Become a Christian

King Agrippa said to Paul, "In this little you are persuading me to become a Christian!"
~ Acts 26:28 (author)

For Herod feared John [the Baptist], knowing him to be a holy and just man, and kept him safe. And hearing him, he did many things, and gladly heard from him.
~ Mark 6:20 (LITV)

"Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"
~ Mark 8:34-36 (NKJV)

Paul spoke compellingly to King Agrippa, whom historians describe as mild and unsuspicious, without hostility to Christians. John the Baptist evidently convinced Herod to do many things. Both kings listened agreeably to their preachers. Both stopped short of turning to God in faith.

It's been said that three kinds of people come to church: the curious, the convinced, and the committed. The first come if it's convenient. The second are sufficiently convicted to become a Christian. The third are compelled to do whatever Christ asks, wherever it leads, at any cost.

To become a Christian isn't about showing up in church to listen agreeably to the preacher. It shouldn't be about going only a step further to become converts—genuine believers willing to settle for the basic salvation package. The premium plan costs absolutely everything. But only in full surrender to Christ do we now know and enjoy the fullness of kingdom riches.

Oh Lord our God, You give us the death and blood, the life and love of Your Son. We could be content with no more, yet You bid us to boldly ask for everything. Please help us understand the sacrifices You ask of us. Please reveal to us the much greater rewards You are giving in their place.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy