InstaStudy

Foundations for New Believers

A guide to understanding the core principles of the Christian faith and building a strong spiritual foundation.

1. The Essential First Steps

1.1 Repentance and Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; John 3:5
  • Repentance is turning away from sin and toward God.
  • Baptism by immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins.
  • This act is an outward expression of an inward change, a burial of the old self.

1.2 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46
  • The Holy Spirit is the promise of the Father, the Spirit of God dwelling within us.
  • The initial sign of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • This experience empowers believers for service and witness.

2. The Nature of God

2.1 Understanding God's Nature

Verses: 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:5-6
  • There is one God, the Father, the source of all things.
  • Jesus Christ is the manifestation of God, His only begotten Son, through whom all things exist.
  • The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, the power and presence of God in the world and in believers.

2.2 The Deity of Jesus Christ

Verses: John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9
  • Jesus is fully God, the Word made flesh.
  • In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  • He is not merely a good man or a prophet, but God manifested in human form.

3. The Importance of God's Word

3.1 The Authority of Scripture

Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21
  • The Bible is the inspired Word of God, the ultimate authority for faith and practice.
  • It is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness.
  • We must study it diligently and apply its teachings to our lives.

3.2 Living by God's Word

Verses: Psalm 119:105; John 17:17
  • The Word of God is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.
  • Sanctification comes through the truth of God's Word.
  • Obedience to God's Word is essential for spiritual growth and maturity.

4. Prayer and Fellowship

4.1 The Power of Prayer

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Matthew 6:6
  • Prayer is communication with God, a vital part of our relationship with Him.
  • We should pray without ceasing, making our requests known to God.
  • Prayer can be both private and corporate, a time of seeking God's will and receiving His guidance.

4.2 Fellowship with Believers

Verses: Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42
  • We should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the habit of some.
  • Fellowship with other believers provides encouragement, support, and accountability.
  • We grow spiritually as we share our lives and experiences with one another.