Formula vs. Relationship

In today's culture, answers to "how to" questions are usually technical or procedural. In other words, follow these steps (1-2-3 and you're done!). It is normal to carry over this expectation to other questions like: "How do I respond to God?"

But, in this case, the question of "How do I respond to God" should be framed more like: "How do a start a relationship with someone?" This is because God is a person. And the answer is quite simple: Responding to God or starting a relationship with Him is similar to the way you would start a relationship with anyone.

You would obviously first become aware of the person and meet them in some way. It could be in person, by email, on Facebook, or by phone. At this point, in our culture, this person might be considered an "acquaintance."

To actually start an ongoing relationship, you would meet with the person again and have a conversation somehow. You might have to call them on the phone. Or, you might have to meet them somewhere and share a cup of coffee. You might possibly have them visit your home and you would invite them in. You might share a meal together.

Therefore, to answer the question of how to respond to God, or how do I start a relationship with God, the New Testament uses the same type of relationship metaphors:

• Inviting someone into your home
• Calling someone
• Being open to a friendship or "receiving" someone

So, keep in mind, that God is a person, and that starting a relationship with Him is like entering into a relationship with a person.

Entering that relationship simply requires a response.

To see a list of ways that a person could respond to God, see Responding to God.