The choice to become a Christian is one involving a long-term commitment. Any unbalanced or incomplete approach will fail to achieve success. The nature of the commitment is, therefore, a vital concern.

Consider the progression toward union with Jesus and how this influences everything that follows.

Hear
Listening to God
Becoming a Christian—II Timothy 3:16; II Peter 1:3.
Being a Christian—II Timothy 2:15; Psalm 1:2; Isaiah 1:18.

Believe
Trusting God
Becoming a Christian—Hebrews 11:1, 6, 13, 27; Acts 2:36-37.
Being a Christian—I Corinthians 4:2; II Corinthians 5:7.

Repent
Changing Our Mind and Attitude
Becoming a Christian—Luke 9:23; Acts 2:38.
Being a Christian—Romans 8:29; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 4:20-24.

Confess
Saying the Same Thing as Jesus
Becoming a Christian—I Timothy 6:12-13; Philippians 4:8; Mark 7:20-23.
Being a Christian—Matthew 10:32-33.

Being Baptized
Dying to Living
Becoming a Christian—Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:11-13.
Being a Christian—Romans 6:12-13; II Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 5:24; 6:14.

Conclusion
The pattern for becoming a Christian becomes the very guide for life as a Christian.
We are saved from our sins, but we are also saved for conformity to Christ.
As we understand and embrace these principles, we insure that true conversion will occur.