When someone gives their life to Christ, it’s a moment of celebration and new beginnings. But it’s also the start of a journey that requires support, guidance, and intentional growth. New believers often face spiritual questions, internal battles, and a world that may not understand their newfound faith.
As fellow Christians, we are called not just to lead people to Jesus but to walk with them as they grow.
Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Discipleship is not optional—it’s part of our mission. In this article, let’s explore how you can help new believers grow in their relationship with God, stay grounded in truth, and live out their faith with confidence.
Why Helping New Believers Matters
Accepting Jesus is the starting line, not the finish. Without proper support, new believers can:
- Become confused by false teachings
- Feel isolated or discouraged
- Drift back into old habits or beliefs
Walking with them strengthens their foundation and shows them what genuine Christian community looks like.
Romans 15:1 – “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.”
1. Be Present and Available
The most powerful thing you can offer is relationship.
- Reach out regularly—text, call, or meet for coffee.
- Listen without judgment as they process their questions or struggles.
- Celebrate spiritual milestones with them.
Consistency builds trust, and trust opens the door for deep spiritual growth.
2. Encourage Regular Bible Reading
New believers need to know that God speaks to them personally through His Word.
Tips:
- Suggest starting with the Gospel of John to know Jesus more deeply.
- Share a simple Bible reading plan.
- Read and discuss a passage together once a week.
Avoid overwhelming them—help them grow in bite-sized steps.
Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
3. Teach Them How to Pray
Prayer may feel unfamiliar or intimidating to a new believer. Show them that prayer is simply a conversation with God.
Help them learn by:
- Praying with them in a natural and honest way.
- Sharing simple prayer models like ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
- Encouraging them to talk to God throughout the day, not just in formal times.
Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition… present your requests to God.”
4. Invite Them Into Christian Community
Faith flourishes in fellowship.
- Introduce them to your church or small group.
- Go with them to a Bible study or event.
- Help them connect with believers their age or in their life stage.
Isolation is dangerous, especially early on. Christian friendships provide strength, accountability, and joy.
5. Answer Questions Honestly
New believers will have many questions, such as:
- What does it mean to be saved?
- Can I still struggle with sin and be a Christian?
- How do I hear God’s voice?
If you don’t know the answer:
- Say, “That’s a great question—let’s find out together.”
- Use trusted sources like Bible commentaries or church leaders.
- Don’t fake it—be humble and helpful.
Honest dialogue builds faith and invites deeper exploration.
6. Model the Christian Life
Your life is one of the most powerful tools God will use to help someone grow.
- Let them see how you worship, study Scripture, make decisions, and respond to challenges.
- Be real about your struggles and how God helps you overcome them.
- Share your own faith journey—your story can inspire and guide theirs.
You don’t have to be perfect—just authentic and intentional.
7. Encourage Spiritual Disciplines
Introduce new believers to basic disciplines that strengthen faith:
- Daily Bible reading
- Personal prayer time
- Journaling
- Worship and gratitude
- Fasting (when ready)
Frame these as ways to connect with God, not earn His favor.
8. Protect Them from Legalism or Extremes
Some new believers may fall into religious legalism or be swayed by emotional or unbiblical teachings.
Help them stay grounded in:
- Grace over performance
- Relationship over religion
- Truth over trends
Point them to Jesus—not just rules or routines.
Colossians 2:6-7 – “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him…”
9. Walk Through Struggles Together
Following Jesus doesn’t remove life’s difficulties—it gives us strength to face them.
- Encourage them when faith feels dry or confusing.
- Help them process spiritual attacks or discouragement.
- Remind them of God’s faithfulness, even when emotions waver.
Your support during hard times shows what real discipleship looks like.
10. Encourage Them to Share Their Faith Early
Even as a new believer, they can begin telling others about what God is doing in their life.
- Help them share their testimony in simple ways.
- Let them see evangelism as relational, not intimidating.
- Walk with them in this process—pray together for friends and family.
This builds boldness and reinforces their own commitment.
Final Word: Discipleship Is a Journey, Not a Program
Helping new believers grow is a long-term investment. It takes time, grace, and love—but the rewards are eternal.
1 Thessalonians 2:8 – “We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well…”
So be patient. Be present. Be faithful.
God uses ordinary people to build extraordinary faith. And you might just be the encouragement someone needs to become a lifelong follower of Christ.