There are few moments in the life of a Christian that compare to the feeling that comes at the moment of salvation. You have finally given in to the call to repentance (Acts 2:38) and put on Christ in baptism (Gal. 3:27), washing away all the guilt of sin (Acts 22:16).
That feeling, however, can easily fade away if you were not taught how to live after that moment. We were called to a purpose. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:10). So, once we have put on Christ, there is an expectation for us to get to that work.
What can be expected of brand-new Christians? 1 Peter 2:2 tells us, “…as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby…” This means that there is time needed in study before spiritual maturity can begin. The Hebrews writer expands on this, saying, “…solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their sense exercised to discern both good and evil” (Heb. 4:14). This is a warning that those inexperienced are at risk of being swayed by false doctrines.
So, does this mean that new Christians should just hide in their closet, studying until they memorize a certain amount of Scriptures? Absolutely not! There is work that can be done by even the youngest of Christians.
In Acts 9, we read of the conversion of Paul. After such a radical change of heart, we would expect this new Christian to require a fair amount of study and training before attempting to take on the work of the gospel. But, that is not what we see in Paul.
In verses 20-22, this brand-new babe in Christ did the exact opposite of what we expect. “Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues…” (v. 20). What would Paul know about preaching the gospel? He didn’t go to a school of preaching. He was a filthy sinner with the blood of Christians on his hands. Nevertheless, verse 22 tells that he was able to confound the Jews “…proving that this Jesus is the Christ.” This new Christian was useful.
When we rise from the waters of baptism, we may ask, “Well…now what?” The answer is the same that it was for Paul and all other Christians, “Go and make disciples” (Matt. 28:19-20). A wise preacher once told me that if you know enough to obey the gospel, then you know enough to teach the gospel. God has work for you to do! You don’t need a degree or be perfect to teach someone the gospel. All you need is the courage to tell someone what Christ has done for you.