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Believer Stage

New Believer's Survival Kit

Collect All 6 Essential Tools for Your First Days as a Christian

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

— 2 Corinthians 5:17

Welcome to God's Family! 🎉

If you just accepted Jesus as your Savior, EVERYTHING CHANGED. You are a new creation. Your sins are forgiven. You have eternal life. The Holy Spirit lives inside you. You are God's child now—and nothing can ever change that.

What Just Happened?

Four permanent realities of your salvation

You Were Justified

God declared you righteous

God looked at your sin. Instead of condemning you, He declared you righteous—covered by Christ's righteousness. God doesn't see your sin anymore. He sees Christ's perfection. You're acceptable to God.

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." — Romans 5:1

You Were Adopted

You became God's child

You're not just forgiven. You're brought into God's family. God is your Father. You have inheritance rights. You belong. You have standing in God's family. You're not an orphan or outsider. You're loved as God's own child.

"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God." — John 1:12

The Holy Spirit Lives in You

God's presence within you

God's Holy Spirit now lives IN you. Not just around you. IN you. You have God's presence with you always. You have power to resist temptation. You have guidance for life decisions. You're never alone.

"In whom ye also trusted...ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise." — Ephesians 1:13

You Have Eternal Life

You're guaranteed forever

Your salvation isn't probationary. It's not "try it and see if it works." It's permanent. Forever. You're secure. Death doesn't end you. You will spend eternity with God.

"And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." — John 10:28-29

How to Use This Survival Kit

This is your practical manual for your first year as a Christian.

1

Week 1

Start with the 6 Essentials, Bible Reading & Prayer sections

2

Week 2

Explore Church & Baptism guidance

3

Week 3

Read Dealing with Doubt & Temptation

4

Week 4+

Use First Year Roadmap & reference specific sections as needed

💡 Pro Tip: Don't try to read everything at once. Come back to specific sections as you need them. This is your spiritual survival kit—keep it handy and reference it constantly.

Immediate First Steps

Take action in your first 24 hours

Step 1: Tell Someone Within 24 Hours

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." — Romans 10:9

Who to Tell:

Christian friend
Person who led you to Christ
Family member (if supportive)
Pastor
Anyone who will celebrate with you

What to Say:

"I became a Christian [today/last night]. I trusted Jesus as my Savior. I wanted you to know."

Why This Matters:

Solidifies your decision
Creates accountability
Starts your testimony
Brings community encouragement
Acts of obedience strengthen faith

Step 2: Assure Your Salvation Immediately

The devil will attack with doubt immediately. Here's how to fight back with truth:

❌ Lie the Devil Whispers✅ God's Truth
Did it really work?God promised eternal life to believers. You believed.
You weren't sincere enoughGod sees your heart. You genuinely wanted Jesus.
You felt something, but maybe...Salvation is based on God's Word, not your feelings.
You'll mess up and lose itNothing can separate you from God's love (Romans 8:39).

✓ Your Salvation DEPENDS On:

Jesus' finished work on the cross
God's promise in His Word
Your faith in Christ

✗ Your Salvation Does NOT Depend On:

How strongly you felt
Whether you cried
Your current behavior
Other people's approval

KEY VERSE TO MEMORIZE:

"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life." — 1 John 5:13

You can KNOW you're saved. Not hope. Not guess. KNOW.

Your First 24 Hours Checklist

Do these things immediately after conversion

1

Hour 1

Tell someone you're a Christian
Thank God in prayer
Read John 3:16-18 (small affirmation)
2-12

Hours 2-12

Download a Bible app or get a physical Bible
Pick up one Christian book (start with this guide)
Find a church for Sunday
Tell one more person
24

Hour 24

Pray and read a passage (John 1:1-14)
Commit to church Sunday
Find a Christian friend to spend time with
Write down your decision (date, time, situation)

6 Essentials Every New Believer Must Know

These foundational truths will anchor your faith and give you confidence

You have eternal life RIGHT NOW (John 5:24)

Nothing can separate you from God's love (Romans 8:38-39)

You are sealed by the Holy Spirit until redemption (Ephesians 4:30)

Your sins are forgiven—past, present, and future (Colossians 2:13-14)

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." — John 5:24

Common Questions New Believers Ask

You're not alone—these are the questions everyone has at first

Bible Reading - Your Spiritual Food

You cannot grow without Bible reading. Period. It's non-negotiable.

Why Read the Bible?

God's Word
God's actual revelation, not just good advice
Your Spiritual Food
Like physical food sustains your body
Your Guide
Shows you how to live
Your Source of Strength
Reminds you of God's faithfulness
Your Foundation
Builds your faith in Christ
Your Weapon
Protects against temptation and deception

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." — 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Where to Start: Don't Start at Genesis!

❌ Biggest New Believer Mistake:

Opening to Genesis 1:1 intending to read straight through. You'll power through Genesis, Exodus, maybe Leviticus. By Numbers you're bored. By Deuteronomy you've quit.

✅ Better Approach:

Start with the New Testament in this order:

1
Month 1: Meet Jesus
John (21) • Mark (16) • Acts (28)
2
Month 2: Your New Life
Ephesians (6) • Philippians (4) • Colossians (4) • 1 John (5) • James (5)
3
Month 3: Your Foundation
Romans (16) • Galatians (6) • 1 Peter (5)

The S.O.A.P. Method

How to read Bible passages with deeper understanding

S
Scripture

Write down one verse that stands out or speaks to you

O
Observation

Notice details - Who's speaking? What's happening? What stands out?

A
Application

How does this apply to me? What should I do or believe?

P
Prayer

Respond to God about what you learned

Example with John 3:16:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Observation: God is the actor - He loved, He gave. Result: believers have eternal life.
Application: God loves ME personally. I believed, so I have everlasting life.
Prayer: "God, thank You for loving me so much You sent Jesus. Help me share this good news today."

42-Day Bible Reading Challenge

A behavior becomes a habit after 42 days of repetition. If you read the Bible daily for 6 weeks, it becomes automatic.

Days 1-7
No excuses. Every single day. Set a phone reminder.
Days 8-21
Getting easier now. You're forming the habit.
Days 22-42
This should feel automatic. You're almost there!

Prayer - Talking with God

Prayer is simply talking to God. You don't need fancy words or religious language. Just honesty and a willing heart.

What You Don't Need vs What You Do Need

✗ You DON'T Need:

Fancy words
Religious language
Perfect grammar
A special location

✓ You DO Need:

Honesty
A willing heart
A few minutes
God's attention (which you always have)

"Pray without ceasing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Prayer isn't a one-time event. It's an ongoing conversation throughout your day.

The ACTS Prayer Model

A simple framework for meaningful prayer

A
Adoration
Worship God
• "God, You're holy and righteous"
• "You're more powerful than anything I face"
• "Your love is unfailing"
• "Jesus, You're my Savior. I worship You"
C
Confession
Admit sin
• "God, I sinned today by [specific sin]. Forgive me"
• "I was selfish/dishonest/angry. That was wrong"
• "I knew better but did it anyway. Help me change"
T
Thanksgiving
Thank God
• "Thank You for saving me"
• "Thank You for my family/health/job"
• "Thank You for providing for my needs"
• "Thank You that You never leave me"
S
Supplication
Ask for needs
• "Please give me wisdom about [decision]"
• "Help me resist [temptation]"
• "Please heal [person] and comfort their family"
• "Guide me in [situation]"

💡 Pro Tip: Spend 2-3 minutes on each part. Total prayer time: 10-12 minutes daily.

7-Day Prayer Challenge

Start your prayer habit with this simple challenge. Pray for just 5-10 minutes daily using the ACTS model.

Each Day:
✓ Pick a quiet time and place
✓ Use ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication)
✓ Be honest with God
✓ Write down one thing you prayed about
PHASE 5

Church & Baptism - Your Spiritual Family

You weren't meant to follow Jesus alone. The church is your family, and baptism is your public declaration.

Finding a Church Home

Why Church Matters:
Community: You need spiritual brothers and sisters
Teaching: You need solid biblical instruction
Accountability: You need people who will help you grow
Service: You have gifts to contribute
HEBREWS 10:24-25 (KJV)
"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."
What to Look For:
✓ Preaches the Bible as God's Word
✓ Clearly teaches salvation through Jesus alone
✓ Worships in spirit and truth
✓ Has opportunities for discipleship
✓ Practices loving community
🎯 ACTION: Visit 3 Churches
Don't settle on the first one. Visit at least 3 churches, pray about each one, and ask God to show you where He wants you.

Baptism: Your Public Declaration

What Is Baptism?
Baptism is an outward symbol of an inward reality. It's how you publicly declare:
Your old life is dead (going under water)
You have new life in Christ (coming up out of water)
You are identifying with Jesus' death and resurrection
MATTHEW 28:19 (KJV)
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost"
Common Questions:
Does baptism save me?
No. Baptism doesn't save you—only faith in Jesus saves. Baptism is your public declaration of faith.
When should I get baptized?
As soon as possible after believing! In the New Testament, people were baptized immediately.
What if I was baptized as a baby?
Infant baptism is different. Believer's baptism is your own personal decision after you believe.
🎯 NEXT STEP: Schedule Baptism
Talk to your church about getting baptized. Don't wait—this is your first act of obedience!
PHASE 6

Dealing with Doubt & Temptation

You WILL face doubt and temptation. Here's how to stand firm when spiritual warfare hits.

When Doubt Hits

Understand This:
Doubt doesn't mean you're not saved. Many strong believers experience doubt. The enemy uses doubt to make you question what God has done.
The Lie Satan Tells:
"Did you really get saved?"
"You don't feel any different"
"You're still sinning"
"God couldn't forgive what you've done"
The Truth You Stand On:
✓ Salvation is based on God's promise, not your feelings
✓ God's Word doesn't change based on emotions
✓ Jesus paid for ALL your sins—past, present, future
✓ You are sealed by the Holy Spirit
1 JOHN 5:13 (KJV)
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God."
🛡️ WHEN DOUBT COMES:
1. Remember the moment - Recall when and why you trusted Christ
2. Read God's promises - John 10:28-29, Romans 8:38-39
3. Talk to a mature believer - Don't fight alone
4. Reject the lie - "Satan, I am saved by God's Word, not my feelings"

Fighting Temptation

Temptation vs. Sin:
Temptation:
NOT a sin. Jesus was tempted (Hebrews 4:15) but never sinned.
Sin:
Giving in to temptation. Acting on the wrong desire.
The 4-Step Battle Plan:
1
RECOGNIZE THE ENEMY
Satan wants to destroy you. Every temptation is a spiritual attack. Name it: "This is Satan trying to make me fall."
2
FLEE - DON'T FIGHT
Joseph literally RAN from Potiphar's wife (Genesis 39). Sometimes the best strategy is to physically remove yourself from the situation.
3
USE THE SWORD (GOD'S WORD)
Jesus defeated Satan by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4). Memorize verses that combat your specific temptations.
4
CALL FOR BACKUP
Text a Christian friend. Call your mentor. Don't fight alone—that's when you lose.
1 CORINTHIANS 10:13 (KJV)
"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."
⚔️ WHEN YOU FALL:
1. Confess immediately (1 John 1:9)
2. Don't wallow in guilt - You're still God's child
3. Learn the pattern - When/where/how did it happen?
4. Build a new strategy - Don't just try harder, try different
PHASE 7

Your First Year Roadmap

A quarter-by-quarter guide to building a strong foundation in your first 12 months as a believer.

Q1
MONTHS 1-3

Foundation Phase

Primary Focus:
Establish daily habits and understand the basics
Key Goals:
✓ Daily Bible reading (start with Gospels)
✓ Daily prayer habit (5-10 minutes)
✓ Find and join a church
✓ Get baptized
✓ Tell 3-5 people about your decision
✓ Complete "New Believer 101" materials
Success Metric:
You know the Gospel and can explain why you're saved
Q2
MONTHS 4-6

Growth Phase

Primary Focus:
Deepen your relationship with God and get involved
Key Goals:
✓ Join a small group or Bible study
✓ Start serving in one ministry
✓ Develop consistent prayer life (15-20 min)
✓ Read through one full NT book with notes
✓ Memorize 5-10 key verses
✓ Share your testimony with someone
Success Metric:
You're connected in community and growing in knowledge
Q3
MONTHS 7-9

Discipleship Phase

Primary Focus:
Learn to feed yourself spiritually and help others
Key Goals:
✓ Begin personal Bible study (not just reading)
✓ Learn basic biblical theology
✓ Find or become a mentor relationship
✓ Lead someone to Christ (if possible)
✓ Study spiritual disciplines
✓ Start giving financially
Success Metric:
You can study the Bible independently and help others grow
Q4
MONTHS 10-12

Ministry Phase

Primary Focus:
Step into leadership and multiplication
Key Goals:
✓ Lead a small group or Bible study
✓ Disciple one new believer
✓ Serve in a leadership role at church
✓ Develop your spiritual gifts
✓ Create your 5-year spiritual growth plan
✓ Be ready to share the Gospel clearly
Success Metric:
You're reproducing - helping others become disciples

By the End of Year 1, You Should:

KNOW
• The Gospel clearly
• Basic Bible overview
• Key doctrines
• How to study Scripture
BE
• Baptized
• In community
• Growing daily
• Serving others
DO
• Share your faith
• Help others grow
• Serve in ministry
• Give generously
PHASE 8

Troubleshooting & Support System

Common problems new believers face and who to turn to when you need help.

Problem: "I don't feel saved anymore"

Diagnosis: You're confusing feelings with facts
Solution: Salvation is not based on feelings. Go back to God's promises in His Word. Read John 10:28-29, Romans 8:38-39. Memorize these. Speak them out loud when doubt comes.
Who to call: A mature believer or pastor who can remind you of God's unchanging promises

Problem: "I keep falling into the same sin"

Diagnosis: You're trying to fight sin in your own strength
Solution:1) Confess immediately (1 John 1:9)
2) Identify the trigger - when/where/why does it happen?
3) Build a new strategy - accountability partner, remove access, Scripture memory
4) Remember: Victory comes through the Spirit, not willpower
Who to call: An accountability partner of the same gender who will ask you the hard questions

Problem: "The Bible doesn't make sense"

Diagnosis: You're trying to understand everything immediately
Solution:1) Start with the clear passages (Gospels, Romans)
2) Use a study Bible with notes
3) Ask questions in your small group
4) Remember: Spiritual truth is spiritually discerned (1 Cor 2:14)
5) It's okay not to understand everything - even mature believers don't!
Who to call: Your small group leader or someone who loves studying Scripture

Problem: "My old friends are pulling me back"

Diagnosis: You're trying to live in two worlds
Solution:This is one of the hardest parts. You need to:
1) Be honest with old friends about your new life
2) Invite them to church, but don't compromise
3) Build NEW friendships with believers
4) Know when to lovingly distance yourself
5) Remember: "Bad company corrupts good morals" (1 Cor 15:33)
Who to call: Someone who has successfully navigated this transition

Problem: "I'm overwhelmed and don't know where to start"

Diagnosis: You're trying to do everything at once
Solution:Start with the "Week 1" basics ONLY:
• Talk to God 5 minutes daily
• Read one chapter of John per day
• Tell ONE person about your decision
That's it. Master the basics before adding more.
Who to call: A mentor who can help you build a realistic growth plan

Build Your Support System

You need different types of people speaking into your life. Here's who should be in your corner:
1. A Mentor (older/mature believer)
Role: Teaches you, answers questions, guides your growth
How to find: Ask your pastor or small group leader to connect you
Meet: Weekly or bi-weekly for coffee/meals
2. An Accountability Partner (same gender)
Role: Asks tough questions, fights temptation with you
How to find: Someone you trust who is serious about growth
Meet: Weekly, or text daily for quick check-ins
3. A Small Group (community)
Role: Your spiritual family, weekly encouragement
How to find: Join one at your church (don't wait!)
Meet: Weekly for Bible study, prayer, life together
4. Emergency Contacts (crisis help)
Role: People you can call 24/7 when you're struggling
How to find: Ask 2-3 mature believers if you can call them anytime
Use: When temptation is strong or doubt is overwhelming
🎯 ACTION THIS WEEK:
Identify ONE person for each role above. Write their names down. Reach out to them THIS WEEK and ask if they'd be willing to walk with you.

You're Not Alone in This

Every single believer—including me—has struggled with doubt, temptation, confusion, and feeling overwhelmed. That's why God gave you the church. You are part of a global family of billions of believers who are cheering you on.
HEBREWS 12:1-2 (KJV)
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith"
Keep your eyes on Jesus. He who began a good work in you WILL complete it. (Philippians 1:6)

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