How do I help new Christians start their journey?

Answer:

"By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, "I have come to know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked" (I John 2:3-6).

To reach heaven, we have to keep God's commandments, but that implies that we have to know what God asks of us to do. We also need to understand how to be a Christian by learning how Jesus lived his life on earth. The wisdom that God teaches us protects us from sin and guides us in the way we should go.

"My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body and refreshment to your bones" (Proverbs 3:1-8).

When someone becomes a Christian, I sit down with them and ask what they think they need to know more about. I ask them what parts of the Bible they are least familiar with. I also ask about what parts of life they struggle most with. Based on the answers, I picked an area of study. If someone is motivated to study something because of interest or need, they are more likely to stick with it. Here are some:

• Mark is a good start for someone who has heard of Jesus but doesn't know the details of his life. The short book is easy to read, and the student feels successful in completing something.
• James helps ground someone in the concepts of moral living and dealing with struggles.
• Proverbs is an excellent book for young men.
• I've used Genesis when dealing with someone who knows almost nothing about the Bible.
• Strangely, Revelation is a commonly requested book because it is difficult to understand. I've taught it to several new Christians, and it worked well.