FAQ

Q

To become a believer, can I "pray to receive Christ"?

A

First, interestingly, the phrase "pray to receive Christ" does not appear anywhere in the New Testament.

However, as noted in Responding to God, the New Testament describes responding to God in various ways, including "calling" and more. It could be argued that praying is a type of "calling" and also expresses trust and faith. Therefore, "praying to receive Christ" certainly fits into that model, especially receiving Him (John 1:12).

Q

Does a person gradually become a Christian?

A

Based on New Testament theology, there is an initial moment of belief or receiving initiated by each person in a point in time. Before that time, you could certainly gradually investigate Christ, but there must be a point in time response.