-
The Bible
Romans 13:9
Romans 13:9 states:
“The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not covet,’ and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” 1 2.
This verse emphasizes the importance of love as the fulfillment of the law. Do you have any specific thoughts or questions about this passage?
biblegateway.com
Bible Gateway passage: Romans 13:9 - New International Version
The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
-
2 Replies
-
Can you please write a comprehensive guide about the Bible for people who never read or understand the Bible all of their lives? How do you start learning how to use the Bible, how to pray, understand about God and Jesus, and become a Christian and get baptized. I do believe in a higher being but am clueless about God, Jesus, and the purpose of the Bible. Religion is something that I cannot see, touch, hear, feel, and has concrete solid proof. I really want to learn and become a Christian. Thank you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9oh4YO8N7M&list=PLj5bwUbNaBZC_hS10Zn-Ezm7MKLNeQgtp
-
This reply was modified 7 months, 1 week ago by
Gustan Cho.
-
Absolutely, and thank you for your heartfelt message. What you’re feeling is very real—and very common for anyone starting their spiritual journey later in life. No matter if you’ve never picked up a Bible or can only dimly remember hearing the name of Jesus, it is never too late. This guide is written just for you, in clear, patient steps, and created to be found by others like you who are looking for the same light.
Beginner’s Guide to the Bible, God, Jesus, and Becoming a Christian (2025 Update)
Introduction: You’re Not Alone
If you are sixty or older and just starting to look at Christianity, you are not too late—you are right on time. Countless people discover faith after long years of searching, of pain, or of simple curiosity. The Bible is not a book only for scholars. It is a gift for any person, no matter where they have walked before. This guide is your first step.
What Is the Bible and Why Is It Important?
The Bible is a library of sixty-six books written over fifteen hundred years by more than forty different people. It is split into two main parts:
- Old Testament (Genesis–Malachi): Tells the story of creation, the early years of humanity, and God’s continuing relationship with the people of Israel.
- New Testament (Matthew–Revelation): Tells the story of Jesus, shares His teachings, covers the early church, and promises us eternal life.
Why Should I Care?
- It shows us who God is, who Jesus is, and teaches us to live with peace, purpose, and love.
- It lays out God’s plan for us to be saved—how we can be forgiven and have life with Him that never ends.
Steps to Start Reading the Bible TodayStep 1: Begin with the New Testament
Open the Book of John (it’s the 4th book in the New Testament). It tells who Jesus is in a simple and loving way.
Step 2: Pick a Simple Translation
Grab a Bible in a translation that’s easy to read, like:
- NLT (New Living Translation).
- NIV (New International Version).
- ESV (English Standard Version).
Step 3: Read a Little Each Day
Spend 5–10 minutes reading. You don’t have to get it all. The Bible isn’t a textbook; it’s a way to get to know God better.
How Do I Pray if I’ve Never Done It?
Just talk to God like you would to a friend—be honest, be real, and let your heart speak.
Here’s a simple prayer plan:
A.C.T.S.
- Adoration – “God, You are good, gentle, mighty.”
- Confession – “I’ve messed up. I’m sorry.”
- Thanksgiving – “Thank You for breath, family, today.”
- Supplication – “Teach me. Show me Your way.”
No need for fancy words. Talk to God like you would to someone who loves you deeply.
Who Is Jesus and Why Does He Matter?
Jesus is God’s Son who came here to:
- Live a flawless life.
- Show us how to love God and each other.
- Take the punishment for our sins.
- Come back to life so we can live forever with Him.
Jesus said:
- “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6
- He didn’t start a religion.
- He invites us into a friendship.
What Does It Mean to Be a Christian?
Being a Christian isn’t about being flawless. It’s about:
- Trusting Jesus Christ as your Savior.
- Believing He died for your sins and rose again.
- Deciding to live by His teachings.
You don’t buy your way into heaven by being good. Salvation is a gift you take hold of by faith.
- “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” – Ephesians 2:8
What Is Baptism and Why Is It Important?
- Baptism is a public way of saying you believe in Jesus and want to follow Him.
- It’s like a wedding ring that shows you’ve committed.
- It does not mean you’ve got it all together.
- It shows you’ve been forgiven and have a new life.
How Do I Get Baptized?
- Find a local Christian church.
- Talk to a pastor or minister about wanting to be baptized.
- Many churches have courses for first-time baptism.
How to Find a Good Church Community
You need people walking the same path to cheer you on and keep you growing.
- Look for love.
- Do the people treat each other and newcomers with kindness?
- Listen to the teaching.
- Is the Bible taught in a way you can understand?
- Get involved.
- Join a group or attend a potluck to meet others.
- A healthy church is like a family.
- It’s there to help you take the next steps with Jesus.
Look for a church that:
- Teaches the Bible every week.
- Helps you grow closer to Jesus.
- Welcomes new believers without judging you.
- Try a few different places.
- Ask whatever is on your mind. You don’t have to decide right away.
What If I Still Have Doubts or Questions?
That’s okay. Real faith is built on questions, not blind trust.
Here are some common questions newcomers have:
- “How can I know God is really there?”
- “If God is good, why is there so much hurt?”
- “Have I done too many wrong things to be forgiven?”
The Bible has answers to all of this. And keep in mind:
Faith is a journey. It takes time.
Helpful Tools for Beginners
- YouVersion Bible App — Free, easy Bible plans to read daily.
- The Bible Project (YouTube) — Short, fun videos that explain the Bible.
- Alpha Course (alpha.org) — 11 easy sessions to learn about Jesus.
- GotQuestions.org — Bible answers to thousands of your questions
Next Steps for You
- Say your first honest prayer: “God, I want to know You. Please show Yourself to me.”
- Read the Book of Joh: in an easy-to-understand Bible.
- Go to a church service this Sunday—just sit, watch, and soak it in.
- Talk to someone at the church if you have more questions or need to chat.
- They’re ready to listen.
- Set a date for your baptism** when you feel excited to show the world you believe in Jesus.
Final Encouragement
You’re not too old for this. You’re not too late. God loves you right now, just the way you are—not the way you think you should be.
He wants to walk with you, giving you peace, forgiveness, and a purpose. Following Jesus isn’t a set of rules; it’s a love letter from God, the One who made you.
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” —James 4:8
Need help finding a church or a pastor near you?
Just tell me your town, and I’ll help you discover a friendly church community close by. If you want, I can also write a short prayer to kick off your journey.
You’re not alone in this, and the best part is just beginning.
-
This reply was modified 7 months, 1 week ago by
Log in to reply.