Blake Long

Dear New Christian,

First and foremost: welcome to the family. You are now a child of God, and nobody—or nothing—can take that away from you (Rom. 8:39). Being part of the family of God is the greatest privilege one can know.

As a new Christian, everything has changed for you. You are truly a new creation in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17); as such, that comes with new temptations, new desires, and new things to navigate.

Being a Christian isn’t easy; I’m hoping you already know that. I’m praying you understand that being a Christian—following Jesus daily—is the hardest thing you will ever do. But it’s worth it. Jesus is worth it.

There are a few things you should consider when living life as a Christian, but I want to focus on one thing in this letter: the local church.

Joining a local church is paramount to your sanctification—becoming more like Jesus—as a Christian. And not just any local church, but one that strives to do things according to the Bible. Don’t just join any ole’ church; find one that preaches the whole Bible, disciples well, cares about church discipline, gives thought to what songs are sung, creates an environment of grace, and more. In short, find one that is biblical.

Friend, no local church is perfect. You will quickly find things you disagree with—and that’s okay. What matters is that the church preaches the gospel (centrally).

You will come to learn, I hope, that you cannot survive as a Christian without the local church. You need the church; and the church needs you! As a new Christian, you need to seek out a mature Christian in your local church who can be close to you. Don’t be afraid of getting “in the weeds.” Be okay with being personal with select individuals. That’s how you grow.

If you neglect the local church and discipleship, you’re only robbing your own spiritual growth. You can’t do it on your own. The local church is a gift from God! Don’t just be a mere consumer, but be an active participant.

We live in a day and age—definitely since COVID—when the local church is downplayed. Don’t buy into that hype. The church is needed. The church, as has been said, is essential. Every Christian needs it.

So, new Christian, be committed to the local church. Be there anytime you can. Be intentional about serving and using any gift(s) God has given you. If you’re introverted like I am, mingling with others in church and getting to know others will be difficult. Sometimes it will go against every fiber of your being. When that happens, resist. Don’t give in. Even if you’re awkward; even if the other people are awkward. Go out of your way to get to know people.

Friend, God instituted the church to be a little slice of Heaven on earth, for these are the people you’ll spend eternity with there. Don’t shy away from the local church. Remember that it’s not perfect because it’s made up of sinners—including you.

Don’t let that push you away. As a new Christian, the local church is the best place for you to be.

Your brother in Christ,

Blake

P.S. If you’re looking for a comprehensive look at what you should do now that you’re a Christian, pick up Aaron Armstrong’s book I’m a Christian—Now What? A Guide to Your New Life in Christ.