What makes a person a Christian?
Q. What makes a person a Christian?
A. God’s grace in Jesus Christ is what makes a person a Christian. The hymn Rock of Ages reminds us of this fact as it states, “Could my tears forever flow, Could my zeal no langour know, These for sin could not atone – Thou must save, and Thou alone: In my hand no price I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling.” This verse tells us that our regrets, our sorrow, our efforts, our undying zeal would never achieve what is necessary to be saved. Our sin and rebellion has earned us eternal punishment. The Bible tells us our sin has ruined us to the extent that even our best deeds are like ‘filthy rags.’
To secure salvation, God poured out judgement upon His sinless Son Jesus Christ. Jesus paid the price for our salvation and as a result God welcomes us as His children. God confronts the individual convicting them regarding their sin, the righteousness of Jesus Christ, and the reality of the judgement to come. Having been convicted and convinced of his/her need for forgiveness and the amazing gift of Jesus Christ, the individual then repents and trusts solely in Jesus for eternal life. The Bible tells us, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 19).
From beginning to end, what makes a person a Christian is Jesus Christ our Lord. Hebrews 12:2 states, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy set before Him endured the cross.” Jesus provides all that is necessary for salvation. God sees the Christian as one who stands in Jesus’ perfection, is forgiven, and has the free gift of eternal life.
I would encourage you or anyone to consider what God has accomplished through Jesus on the cross. Do you desire to escape the judgement and worship the God of Heaven and Earth? Repent and believe asking Jesus to make you a Christian.