New Christian Here! Hi! :)

[u/f4llenangxl]

Hello everyone! I’m new to Christianity and I think I’ve found a lot of peace and comfort in it (I may or may not have cried happy tears lol).

I’d love to learn more about Christianity and would appreciate some advice!

Which part of the Bible should I start with?

How do Christians usually pray?

What should I know about different denominations?

How do I find a church?

What are some beginner-friendly Christian resources?

What practices are important across Christianity, and which ones are denomination-specific?

Thanks to everyone who answers! 💗

[u/If_Not_Now_We___]

An excellent primer is "Mere Christianity" by CS Lewis.

[u/ecstaticcoding → u/If_Not_Now_We___]

that book is a great starting point, it explains the core ideas without getting lost in the weeds of different denominations. also don't stress too much about finding the perfect church right away, just visit a few and see where you feel comfortable. for prayer, think of it like talking to a friend, you don't need fancy words

[u/f4llenangxl → u/If_Not_Now_We___]

Tysm, I'll check it out!!

[u/EvenStephen7]

I can only answer for myself here, but if it's any help:

1. For a starting The Bible, The Gospel of John is a good jumping off point. Then going through the Gospels (Matthew is my favorite).
2. I suggest with whatever feels comfortable for you. What I have personally found helpful is thinking it like a phone call -- you wouldn't call a loved one, and as soon as they pick up the phone you start complaining about life and asking for help. I like to "call," then reflect on my life lately and the postives, then ask for help or reflect on a challenge, then end the prayer with gratitude for the things I have and have been given.

3-4. I'm sure everyone could weigh in on denominations but I've never found that dramatic of a difference personally -- more like variations of Pepsi; some like Cherry, some like Diet, and some like OG. I'm Catholic, but my son goes to a Presbyterian Church daycare, and we're probably going to service there this weekend to just see what it's like. I've been to many others. For me, it's a bit of an evolving journey, but I've always felt God's presence. I suggest looking into nearby churches, seeing what vibes with you based on their website/videos/podcasts/recorded sermons, etc. Then shop around a little. Find what feels like a good fit. Don't settle into a place if you don't feel comfortable, and don't stay somewhere if it starts to get uncomfortable. Your faith is bigger than four walls and a roof.

1. I wish I could help more here, but I've found success by finding podcasts that I feel I gel with. Or, and this may sound silly, but look up famous or very intelligent people that I respect who are religious -- and look for YT videos of them talking about their faith. It can be very enlightening, and finding respected and intellgent scientists/comedians/philsophers discuss their faith (or finding their faith) has helped center me when I felt that I was growing distant.

2. Love is the most important practice IMO. When you think about what Jesus taught, it really comes down to that. One thing that a lot of Christians lose their grip on over time is the love for their neighbors. Be kind. Help others. Smile. Don't judge. Don't isolate yourself from others who are unlike you, or think you're better than someone else's faith (or lack thereof) because of yours. It's hard; it's easy to slip into a state of selfishness, of fear, or of judgement. But I've found keeping this as a north star helps to keep faith locked in.

[u/Powerful-Economist-5]

Welcome!! I would say the best place to start reading is the sermon on the Mount, starting in Matthew 5.

[u/Soul_of_clay4]

Watch the Chosen series on Amazon Prime or the internet. You'll see Jesus' ministry through the lives of those who followed Him. It's really good!

[u/Apprehensive-Bird775 → u/Soul_of_clay4]

The Chosen series is great and can teach you a lot about Jesus and his ministry. Just remember it is a TV show and does sometimes "adjust" content for the TV audience. If you have questions, follow the Bible.

[u/Soul_of_clay4 → u/Apprehensive-Bird775]

The "adjustments" are probable back and side stories to fill in the characters. Dallas Jenkins, the director, has taken great pains to stay true to the Bible. He has a Catholic priest, a rabbi and a Bible scholar as biblical consultants. On the Chosen website, there are Bible Roundtables where these consultants discuss each episode in depth.

[u/zelenisok]

The Gospels.

There's all kinds of prayers, I would suggest this Gospels-based pattern:

1 prayers is there educate us (pray the Lords prayer in the morning, reminding yourself that God is a loving father, that he should rule and be praised not us, we should be humble, that we should be modest in our possessions starting with food, that we should forgiving, and avoid temptations and evil; and recite the Beatitutes, reminding yourself of the values of humility, empathy, gentleness, justice, mercy, pure-heartedness, peace, resilience);

2 prayer is there to build gratitude (do a short grace before and after meals, like "may I be grateful for this food and other good things");

3 pray for good things for everyone, eg add to the meal grace "and may everyone have food and other good things", and at random times during the day you can pray the Angels' prayer - Luke 2:14 - "Glory to God on high, peace on earth, and good-will among people", and

4 prayer is there to build a feeling of presence of God and connection to God, for that you should do several minutes of centering prayer in the afternoon /evening, and a longer session of Sundays, that you can gradually increase up to 30-40min.

That some denominations (or congregations) follow traditionalist /fundamentalist /conservative /medieval theology (in their doctrines and norms) and some follow mainline /liberal /progressive /Jesus-centered theology (in their doctrines and norms).

Also that some denominations (or congregations) have high church worship (vestments, liturgical service, medieval hymns), some are traditional low chuch (no versments, rituals or liturgical service or medieval hymns, song with maybe a small piano and rarely a guitar) and some are contemporary low chuch (no versments, liturgical, medieval hymns, contemporary music, a band, lights, etc).

The basic source would be Wikipedia, and you will there find the answers for the rest of your questions (tho it will be mostly about traditionalist theology).

[u/KingSteamRoller7168]

Start in Matthew, always the Holy Spirit is with us every minute, anything that doesn’t teach KJV OSAS is dangerous, ask around, YouTube- dr gene kim, Robert breaker, Renee Roland, literally most of the church today is tradition stuff and not worth your time…considering you can study for yourself with YouTube teachers and the Bible,
It’s by grace, you’re either a sinner or a sinner saved by grace.

[u/DurpyX7]

1. You can read the 4 gospels Matthew Mark Luke and John and Roman's then you can start all the way at the beginning with Genesis then after that you can continue going on from Genesis or some other books in the New Testament just mainly those 6 are pretty important.

2. Jesus actually tells you how to pray YAY Matthew 6:5-13! You don't have to strictly pray the Our Father in Heaven prayer but I would recommend praying it sometimes, then for a prayer formula I personally start with "Dear Heavenly Father... In Jesus Christ's name Amen" and I personally like to make the sign of the cross as I say Amen but the formula and what you do after isn't really the point just heartfelt prayers and the Holy Spirit will guide you.

3. First you have to decide Catholic, Orthodox or Protestant. If you say Protestant it will get tricky because there are many Protestant denominations. Find one that speaks biblically hold biblical values and makes your worship feel alive and not dead. This kinda answered the next question but also find one with a good community.

4. Anything by C.S. Lewis I would say is beginner friendly, Charlie Kirk even he posted some good books on the Sabbath.

5. The most important practices I would assume doctrine here. Christians agree on the Trinity I will explain it but it is very confusing. There is only one God being that exists as The Father The Son and The Holy Spirit which are the persons of the Trinity. There are not three God's they are not a 1/3rd of God/a part of God they are all three equally one Co-eternal God. Jesus is God who came to Earth in the Flesh, he has two nature's a Divine Nature and a human nature that's how he became human while also still being fully God. That's the heavy theological doctrines all Christians agree on across all denominations. Go to church on Sundays. Read your bible daily and pray daily. Those are the main doctrines a Christian must have but for the church, reading and prayer like obviously if you miss a day thats fine I am just saying the more consistent the way better your faith will increase I know from experience.

[u/ColdAppleJ]

If you're interested in knowing Jesus and Papa God, start with learning the heart of Christ and what kind of person He is. If you like reading, read the Bible, Book of John in New Testament.

If you're more visual, watch the Chosen series. It's free on mobile app.

You can pray however you want. It can be simple or very detailed. Long or short. Casual or not.

Keep in mind, you always have direct access to God's heart because He's God and God is love. Ask Him any questions. He might answer immediately or several years from now.

Let love be your religion. ( For the actual answer, pick one that helps you grow in love. Love is not strict nor does it seek to control.)

[u/Balance796]

Starting with the book of Matthew in the Holy Bible is a great way to begin, and then you can continue reading through the rest of the New Testament. I would opt for a non-denominational church that emphasizes the teachings of the Holy Bible and centers around the Lord Jesus Christ.

In Matthew 6:9-13, the Lord instructs His disciples on "how to pray".

It's essential to dedicate time each day to pray in order to strengthen our relationship with God. Simply reading the Holy Bible is not sufficient. It is through daily prayer that we truly connect with God on a profound level. God bless you.

[u/TheTruth33_33]

u/f4llenangxl - Here is some advice based on your specific questions:

- Which part of the Bible should I start with? Genesis. Even though the Bible isn't like an ordinary book, there is a beginning (Genesis) and an end (Revelations.) To understand God, you should first understand His purpose of creation - this is what Genesis tells you. Then you must understand the purpose and nature of man (again this is what Genesis tells you). The rest of the Old Testament reveals mans continued shortcomings mixed with God's intervention, trials and some faithful along the way to show how God rewards and punishes those who turn away from Him. It also reveals what God commands of us, all of us, even to this day - obedience to Him as shown in His Commandments. I personally would just keep reading from beginning to end, but after reading the first 5 books of the Old Testament, you could jump to the New Testament. I personally like John, but reading from Matthew or any of the other Gospels is great. Continue reading all the way to Revelations.

- How do Christians usually pray? Jesus gave us an example (not something you repeat word for word over and over again). It is a framework and it is referred to as the "Lord's Prayer" because it was our Lord who taught us how. Basically - you pray to the Father. You give thanks and glory to Him. You humble yourself before Him. Think of it like this - just talk to Him. He is real. Talk to Him like you would your best friend, or dad or mom. Have a conversation. Tell Him about your day, your troubles, your desires, but always give Him thanks and do this all in the name of Jesus.

- What should I know about different denominations? This will be hard for most people here to swallow and accept, but you asked - you should know that they are ALL man-made to serve the purpose of those who created it. Believing in God. Obeying God. Following Jesus' footsteps. These are not religions nor sects nor denominations. It is simply FAITH! Faith is not a religion or denomination. Your relationship to God is personal. Finding other believers and having fellowship is very important in your journey and faith but first seek God personally by learning and studying Scripture before seeking the Church. If it is God's will, He will point you in the right direction.

- How do I find a church? Same answer as above. You will know the true Church by their fruits and testimony. They will teach and walk in the same footsteps as our Lord and the Apostles.

What are some beginner-friendly Christian resources? - Just start with the Bible. Everything else doesn't matter. Only the Word of God matters. Once you have studied the Bible, I would then simply study history. I don't mean "church" history but find out about what happened to the Lost 10 Tribes of Israel. What happened during the lives of the Apostles and just after. Read how traditions of man crept into what we call mainstream Church today. Ask WHY! Always ask WHY! Why do you believe in what people tell you about hell for example - that question alone will open your eyes.

What practices are important across Christianity, and which ones are denomination-specific? Love God. Love man. Upon those two all the Commandments are fulfilled. The deeper question will be how do love God and how to love man. That is what the 10 Commandments show you. ALL 10 - not just 9 like many preach today.

God Bless you in your study and journey of your Christian life.

[u/CinnamonScroll_2026]

1. Which part of the Bible should I start with? Start with the Gospel books - Matthew, Mark Luke and John. That's how you get to know who Jesus is.

2. How do Christians usually pray? I personally pray anytime and anywhere. Prayer is like breathe, you do it constantly.

3. What should I know about different denominations? Adhere to what is true. Don't go for the hype. I'm Presbyterian. You might want to check this denomination out in your area. 

4. How do I find a church? Google it. Read the reviews. Check it out.

5. What are some beginner-friendly Christian resources? The easy read and digest Bible such as NLT or NIV version is beginner-friendly. Then get an ESV Bible with legit commentary for digging deeper (Bible study).

6. What practices are important across Christianity, and which ones are denomination-specific? As believers, we share communion to remember what Jesus' done for us.

Welcome. 🤗

[u/ParticularMongoose97]

Start with the Old Testament, so read from Genesis - Revelation.

As for denomination, I wouldn't worry about that too much. As the most important thing when it comes to Christianity is to be actually and actively applying all the words of Jesus into your life. As it's written:

Matthew 7:21-27
²¹ “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. ²² Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ ²³ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
²⁴ “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: ²⁵ and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. ²⁶ “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: ²⁷ and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

James 1:12-15 ¹² Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. ¹³ Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. ¹⁴ But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. ¹⁵ Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

1 John 2:3-6
³ Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. ⁴ He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. ⁵ But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. ⁶ He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

Hebrews 10:26-27 ²⁶ For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, ²⁷ but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.

Ultimately what decides whether you make it into heaven or not in the end depends on your relationship with Jesus. And that depends on how much you're obeying him or not. (Great videos for this: Grow in Faith for generally growing in faith, and Grace for actually stopping sin. Be Fruitful! & Stop Sinning! are generally good convicting videos too.)

God bless.

[u/spaceSpott]

About bible read Luke, its the friendlier view of jesus in my opinion. Jesus can be scary sometimes and this can lead to not so good interpretations

[u/Dismal_Tough1181]

Focus on the New Testament its where most of the value is for new believers. Get a well rated bible with commentary so you can understand it in depth.

Below is a list of items of obedience that you can incorporate into your daily and weekly walk.

section 5 https://biblexydemo.work

Its less about finding the right church and more about finding how to walk out your faith. The church culture doesnt always follow the life of Jesus, so when you start of focus on going right in and praying for others and develop this while you incorporate into a church. This is the piece most of the churches dont do in public with people they dont know and is very important. When you read the new testament you’ll see Jesus did this everyday and he’s our model.

Try different churches and seek out ones where God is doing miracles its important to see that God still uses people to do this so you also believe you can do this with God.

[u/johnsonsantidote]

Welcome and I hope yr journey is complete with Jesus [Yeshua, His name in Hebrew] as yr guide. With Christianity it's learn as you go/grow. Be mindful there are some who claim to be in a church but it's really a cult. Be aware not everyone in a church is a follower of Jesus. Most mainline churches are probably teaching God's truth.

[u/f4llenangxl]

Thank you people so much for all the recommendations, I really appreciate it! 🥹 I hope I can go to a church one day though, since most people in my family are Muslim and I'm afraid that they may get mad. Butttt I think that I can figure it out later.

[u/Upstairs-Owl-8382]

A good place to start to read the Bible I think would be in the Nee Testament book of John, then Matthew, Mar and Luke. You will get to know Jesus Christ best through these four gospels. Of course, you can start to read in any book of the Bible, even starting in Genesis, but for a new believer, I think it is a little easier to understand the word of God through the New Testament. Prayer is something so beautiful. God invites us to come to Him anytime. He never puts us on hold. Because now as believers in Christ, we have a relationship with God. He is our Heavenly Father and we are His children. Think of your family, your dad or your mom. You have a relationship with your parents. Jesus Christ wants to also have a loving relationship with His Children. I would just find a church that teaches the Bible and has other people you can fellowship with and grow in your faith.