All of us are lost. Born lost. From the moment of our conception. Before our first breath is even taken, we are bound by the enemy in sin. But, all of us can leave that old life behind and become a Christian.

As I was reading through my mother’s Bible recently, I found a bookmark that has instructions for “How to Become a Christian”. I was intrigued by this because I have never come across a bookmark like this before and it outlines a quick list of scripture-based ways to lay the basic foundation before the heart of man.

I decided to share this here for others to read through and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth of the Gospel to you whether you are already following Christ or if this is your first time reading about our Lord.

I will also note here that in the future I will be writing a post about my mother’s Bible version. It is the “The Living Bible”, given to her by Grace United Methodist Bible School. That would place this version around the early 1970’s. I really enjoy the translation and the easy to read and understand text. I find some of the scriptures that I am very familiar with being revealed to me in a new way and with more profound truths.

Let Us Walk Together

Open Your Heart to the Word

The post You Need to Bookmark This! How to Become a Christian first appeared on The Story Retold.

The Biblical Narrative

The story of Palm Sunday unfolds in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, with each writer offering a unique perspective on the events that transpired. According to the New Testament, Jesus arrived in Bethphage and Bethany, near Jerusalem, with his disciples. Upon his arrival, he sent two of them to fetch a donkey and its colt, which were to serve as his mount for the entry into the holy city. The disciples found the animals just as Jesus had described, and they brought them to him. Jesus rode the colt while the crowds gathered, laying down their cloaks and palm branches on the road. The people hailed him as the Son of David, the long-awaited Messiah.

Here is a list of the biblical examples from each of the four Gospels:

1. Matthew 21:1-11: This account is found in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus instructs his disciples to fetch a donkey and a colt, and upon entering Jerusalem, the crowds spread their cloaks and palm branches on the ground, and some even placed them on the donkey on which Jesus was seated. The people shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” This was a declaration of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.
2. Mark 11:1-10: In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus also rides into Jerusalem on a colt (a young donkey), and the people spread their cloaks and palm branches on the road. They greet Jesus with the same Hosanna cry, recognizing him as the one coming in the name of the Lord. Mark’s account is quite similar to that of Matthew’s, emphasizing the prophecy fulfillment from the Old Testament.
3. Luke 19:28-40: The Gospel of Luke provides a detailed narrative of the event. Jesus approaches the city and instructs his disciples to bring the colt. As he enters, the disciples and a great multitude spread their garments and palm branches, praising God and saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest heaven!” Luke emphasizes the praise and the connection to prophecy, quoting from Psalm 118:26 and Isaiah 56:7.
4. John 12:12-19: The Gospel of John presents a different perspective on the same event. Here, Jesus finds a young donkey and rides it into Jerusalem. The people took palm branches and went out to meet him, crying out, “Blessed is the king of Israel!” John connects this event to the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, which speaks of the king coming to Zion, humble and riding on a donkey. The Pharisees in the crowd are troubled by this display, which they see as a challenge to Roman authority.

All four Gospels recount this event, each offering their own unique details and perspectives, but the central narrative remains consistent: Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the laying of palm branches and cloaks, and the people’s recognition of him as a kingly figure, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the coming of the Messiah. Palm Sunday is a significant day in the Christian liturgical calendar, serving as the beginning of Holy Week, which leads up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.

The Historical Context

The setting for this grand entrance was not arbitrary. Palm Sunday coincided with the Jewish Festival of Passover, a time when the city of Jerusalem swelled with pilgrims from across the land. The city was a hotbed of political and religious fervor, with the Roman occupation casting a shadow over the Jewish population. The act of waving palm branches and crying out “Hosanna” was deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, serving as a declaration of victory and homage to a king. This was no mere welcome for a visiting rabbi; it was a public endorsement of Jesus as the long-prophesied king come to save his people.

Symbolism and Prophecy

The palm branch holds significant symbolic weight in this narrative. In biblical times, it represented victory, joy, and the arrival of a king. Palm branches were used during the Festival of Sukkot to celebrate the harvest and the triumph of the Jewish people over their enemies. The use of palms to honor Jesus echoed the words of the prophet Zechariah: “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9). By riding into the city on a donkey’s colt, Jesus fulfilled this prophecy, signaling his role as the humble yet triumphant king.

The Donkey: A Beast of Burden and a Symbol of Peace

The choice of the donkey was not coincidental either. This beast of burden was a symbol of peace, as opposed to the horse, which was associated with war. In the context of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the donkey underscores his peaceful and non-confrontational approach to his impending reign. It was a deliberate act of humility, setting Jesus apart from the warrior kings the people might have been expecting. This act of peaceful defiance was a stark contrast to the Roman leaders who often entered cities on majestic horses, embodying power and conquest.

The Road to the Cross

The path Jesus took from Bethphage to the city walls of Jerusalem is now known as the Palm Sunday Road, or the Road of the Triumphal Entry. This route is laden with symbolism, as it mirrors the journey of the Suffering Servant described in Isaiah 53: “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.” While the crowds celebrated Jesus’ arrival, they were unwittingly foreshadowing the path of suffering that lay ahead for him.

The Convergence of Scripture

The events of Palm Sunday serve as a convergence of several key biblical narratives. The palm branches and the donkey hearken back to the triumphal entry of Solomon into the city (1 Kings 1:38-40) and the triumphant return of the victorious Maccabees (1 Maccabees 13:4-8). Moreover, the cries of “Hosanna” are drawn from Psalm 118:25-26: “Lord, save us!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” These verses were part of the Hallel, a set of psalms sung during Passover, suggesting that the crowd saw Jesus as the one who would save them from their oppressors.

The Paradox of Triumph and Tragedy

The contrast between Jesus’ triumphal entry and the sorrowful events of the following week is stark. Within days, the same voices that shouted “Hosanna” would call for his crucifixion. Palm Sunday is thus a poignant reminder of the human tendency to seek an immediate and tangible form of salvation, often misunderstanding the profound and eternal nature of God’s plan. The triumph of Palm Sunday is inextricably linked to the tragedy of Good Friday, and ultimately, the victory of Easter Sunday.

The Lesson for Today

Palm Sunday challenges Christians to look beyond the surface of their expectations and to embrace the paradox of a king who reigns not through power and might but through suffering and sacrifice. It is a call to examine our own hearts and ask whether we are willing to follow Jesus through the highs and lows of our faith journeys.

Conclusion

The story of Palm Sunday is a complex tapestry, woven with threads of prophecy, history, and human emotion. As we reflect on this day, let us remember the joy of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the depth of his humility, and the ultimate sacrifice he made for us. Let us hold fast to the hope that, like the palm branches that once lined the road to the cross, our lives can be instruments of praise and surrender to the king who came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).

Further Reading:

1. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
2. Isaiah 53
3. 1 Kings 1:38-40
4. 1 Maccabees 13:4-8
5. Psalm 118:25-26

The post Palm Sunday: Anticipation and Joy Admist the Triumphal Entry of Jesus first appeared on The Story Retold.

C.S. Lewis, the celebrated British author and scholar, is renowned for his profound contributions to literature, philosophy, and Christian theology. His iconic works, such as “The Chronicles of Narnia” and “Mere Christianity,” have touched the hearts and minds of countless individuals, inspiring them to ponder the profound mysteries of faith. But what of the man behind these writings? What was the catalyst for his own spiritual awakening? This blog post delves into the captivating narrative of C.S. Lewis’s journey from atheism to Christianity, a transformation that not only shaped his life but also left an indelible mark on the world.

The Early Years: A Seed of Skepticism

Born in Belfast, Ireland in 1898, Clive Staples Lewis, or “Jack” as he was known to his friends, grew up in a Christian household. His mother, Flora, was a devout Anglican, and his father, Albert, was an atheist. After his mother’s untimely death, Lewis’s faith began to waver, and by the age of 15, he had rejected Christianity, adopting atheism as his worldview. The loss of his mother and the horrors of World War I, in which he served, further entrenched his skepticism towards God and the supernatural.

The Influence of Friendship and Intellectual Rigor

Lewis’s journey back to Christianity began during his tenure at Oxford University, where he encountered a group of intellectuals known as the Inklings, which included J.R.R. Tolkien, another literary giant of the time. Tolkien, a devoted Catholic, played a pivotal role in challenging Lewis’s atheistic beliefs. Through their deep conversations and debates, Tolkien introduced Lewis to the concept of myth and its capacity to reveal profound truths about the human condition. This was a significant turning point, as it allowed Lewis to re-evaluate his views on religion and its role in literature.

Lewis’s friendship with another Oxford fellow, Hugo Dyson, also played a crucial part in his spiritual odyssey. In 1929, during a long night of discussion with Tolkien and Dyson, Lewis felt an overwhelming sense of the presence of something beyond the material world—a moment he later described as being “surprised by joy.”

The Intellectual Foundations: From Atheism to Theism

Lewis’s intellectual journey to theism was influenced by several key figures and their writings. One such figure was the philosopher and mathematician G.K. Chesterton, whose book “The Everlasting Man” made a deep impression on the young academic. Chesterton’s wit and logical argumentation challenged Lewis’s preconceived notions about the plausibility of Christianity.

Another significant influence was the philosopher Bertrand Russell, whose atheistic arguments initially bolstered Lewis’s own disbelief. However, upon closer examination, Lewis found Russell’s reasoning flawed and sought a more robust intellectual framework for his skepticism. This quest led him to the works of philosophers such as William James, who presented a more nuanced approach to the existence of God, and the metaphysical poets, whose verses spoke to the longing for the divine that he could no longer ignore.

The Pivotal Moment: The Abolition of Man

One of the most transformative moments in Lewis’s spiritual life occurred during a motorcycle ride with his good friend, J.R.R. Tolkien. As they discussed the nature of myth and reality, Tolkien presented Lewis with the idea that myths are not mere fabrications but are, in fact, “splinters of the true light.” This conversation led Lewis to question his atheistic beliefs and consider the possibility of a divine truth embedded within mythology. This revelation is famously recounted in Lewis’s autobiography, “Surprised by Joy.”

The Road to Christianity: The Great Knock

The final step in Lewis’s journey to Christianity is often referred to as “The Great Knock.” In 1931, while riding a bus, he experienced a profound moment of clarity and acceptance of God’s existence. He later described this as feeling “the door of the universe burst open,” and he knew with certainty that God was real. This event marked his transition from theism to Christianity.

The Influence of George MacDonald

C.S. Lewis’s conversion was also heavily influenced by the writings of George MacDonald, a 19th-century Scottish author and Christian minister. MacDonald’s fantasy works, such as “Phantastes” and “The Great Divorce,” introduced Lewis to the concept of a benevolent God whose love transcended human understanding. Through MacDonald’s vivid portrayal of God’s grace, Lewis began to see Christianity in a new light, as a faith that offered not just truth but also beauty and goodness.

Conclusion: The Chronicles of a Transformed Heart

C.S. Lewis’s conversion to Christianity was a gradual process, a winding path of doubt, discovery, and ultimately, profound faith. His intellectual curiosity, the influence of close friends, and his encounter with the beauty of Christian thought and literature all played a role in his spiritual transformation. As he himself wrote, “I gave in, and admitted that God was God, and knelt and prayed: perhaps, that night, the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England.”

Lewis’s journey from atheism to Christianity is a testament to the power of friendship, the pursuit of truth, and the enduring appeal of the gospel message. His writings, informed by his personal odyssey, continue to resonate with readers around the globe, inviting them to consider the possibility of a world beyond the one we see—a world where myth becomes reality, and the God touches the human heart.

Continue Your Journey: The Pilgrim’s Regress

The Pilgrim’s Regress

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August 9, 2024

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“The Pilgrim’s Regress” is an allegorical novel by C.S. Lewis, originally published in 1933, which serves as a spiritual and intellectual autobiography of his own early life. The story follows the protagonist John, who feels a deep sense of discontent in his home, the Shadowlands, and sets out on a quest for an island called the Isle of the Blessed, which he believes will fulfill his longing. Along the way, John encounters various characters and experiences that symbolize different philosophical and religious ideas from Western culture. These encounters lead him through the realms of materialism, idealism, Eastern mysticism, and various other “isms” before he finally reaches the end of the world and meets the shepherd, a Christ-like figure who guides him to the true island, which is actually the realm of Christian faith. The narrative is heavily influenced by John Bunyan’s “The Pilgrim’s Progress” and is a clear allegory of Lewis’s own journey from atheism to Christian belief. The book is rich in symbolism and satire, critiquing various contemporary ideologies and celebrating the beauty and truth of Christian faith. It is an insightful exploration of the human search for meaning and the ultimate revelation of that meaning in the person of Jesus Christ.

Sources:

• C.S. Lewis, “Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life”
• Alister McGrath, “C.S. Lewis: A Life”
• Walter Hooper (ed.), “The Collected Letters of C.S. Lewis”
• Humphrey Carpenter, “The Inklings: C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Charles Williams, and Their Friends”
• George M. Marsden, “C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity: A Biographical and Theological Introduction”

The post C.S. Lewis: The Great Joy of a Skeptics Path to the Cross first appeared on The Story Retold.

Before the beginning of time, in the heart of existence, a narrative of unparalleled love was being woven. This is not a tale of star-crossed lovers, nor a saga of heroic conquests, but the story of Jesus Christ—the ultimate act of love that transcends all human understanding. The profound and eternal love of God, manifested in the person of Jesus, who laid down His life for the salvation of humanity. A love so great that it envelops every heart that seeks refuge in its embrace, and a story so powerful that it has transformed the lives of billions for over two millennia.

A Prologue: In The Beginning

The story of Jesus Christ begins not with His birth, but with the creation of the world. The Bible, in the opening chapter of the Gospel of John, introduces Jesus as the Word of God, the divine Logos, who was present at the creation of the universe.

The mystery of the Incarnation is the central tenet of Christian faith, a divine revelation that transcends human understanding. The second person of the Holy Trinity, the Word of God, willingly became flesh to dwell among us and reveal the profound depths of God’s love.

The Plot: Simple Yet Profound

The plot of this love story is simple yet profound. God, in His infinite wisdom and love, saw the fall of humanity—our propensity to choose sin over Him—and knew that a price had to be paid for our redemption. This price was not gold, nor was it the power of an empire; it was the life of His only Son, Jesus Christ. The incarnation of God in the form of a man was the ultimate expression of love.

The Word made flesh in the person of Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God’s love. St. John goes on to proclaim, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16). This love is not abstract or distant but tangible and intimate, as seen in the life, ministry, and ultimately the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus.

Jesus’s life on earth was marked by miracles, teachings of love and forgiveness, and a relentless pursuit of the lost. He walked among the outcasts and the marginalized, offering them hope and a new way of life. His parables spoke of a kingdom where the last would be first and the first would be last, where the meek would inherit the earth, and where love would conquer all.

The Climax: It Is Finished

The climax of this love story unfolds in the final week of Jesus’s life, known as Holy Week. It begins with the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where Jesus is hailed as the King of Kings. However, this king does not ride on a mighty steed but on a humble donkey, symbolizing His peaceful reign.

The week progresses with Jesus’s Last Supper with His disciples, where He establishes the sacrament of the Eucharist, offering His body and blood as a new covenant of love. He is then betrayed by one of His own, Judas Iscariot, and is arrested, falsely accused, and sentenced to death by crucifixion.

On the cross, Jesus experiences the ultimate act of love: He takes upon Himself the sins of the world, enduring the agony of separation from God to bridge the gap between humanity and the divine. His sacrifice is the pinnacle of the story, as He shouts, “It is finished!”, signifying the completion of God’s plan for salvation.

The Resolution: Resurrection and Commission

The resolution of this epic tale is found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. After three days in the tomb, He rises from the dead, conquering sin and death. This victory is not just for Jesus but for all who believe in Him. His resurrection is the promise of eternal life for those who accept His love and follow His teachings.

The story does not end with the resurrection, however. Jesus ascends to heaven, leaving His disciples with the Great Commission. His love continues to be shared through the ages, as Christians carry the message of salvation to the ends of the earth.

The Impact: A Lasting Transformation

The love story of Jesus Christ has had a profound impact on the world. It has inspired countless acts of selflessness, compassion, and sacrifice. The establishment of hospitals, orphanages, and charities can all be traced back to the teachings of Jesus.

This story has also transformed the lives of individuals, offering hope and redemption to those who feel lost and forgotten. The love of Jesus is a beacon of light in the darkest of moments, a balm to the weary soul, and a promise of eternal life to all who believe.

Conclusion: Written On Our Hearts

The greatest love story ever told is not one of romance or grandeur but of selflessness and sacrifice. It is the story of a God who so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. As we reflect on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us be reminded of the depth of God’s love for us.

This love is not merely a historical event but a living reality that continues to be retold and transform hearts and lives today. The story of Jesus Christ is the greatest love story ever told because it is a story that is still being written in the hearts of those who choose to accept and embrace it. It is a story that invites each of us to become part of God’s love, forgiveness, and salvation.

Sources:

• The Holy Bible, New International Version (KJV)
• The Catechism of the Catholic Church
• The Book of Common Prayer
• The writings of the early Church Fathers and theologians such as Augustine of Hippo, Thomas Aquinas, and C.S. Lewis
• The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John for the life and teachings of Jesus Christ
• The letters of Saint Paul for the theological implications of Jesus’s sacrifice and resurrection
• Historical and theological studies on the incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The post The Greatest Love Story Ever Told first appeared on The Story Retold.

Are you looking for a simple explanation for how to be sure you will go to Heaven rather than Hell? You’ve come to the right place. This is a very important message, and while my goal is to make it brief, I also must be thorough. This will not cover all of the details, but instead will give you what you need to know to be saved. Here you will learn the problem and the solution that we all face.

The Problem: People are Sinful and Unrighteous. 

Jesus Christ: A Permanent Solution.

Being Saved

The post Am I Saved? The Problem and the Solution Simplified! first appeared on The Story Retold.

I hope that in finding this website and this page in particular – the Holy Spirit is at work within you – leading you to the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. This gift is freely given to all that are willing to proclaim in faith their belief that Jesus is the Son of God.

Start on the Path

Congratulations on taking a great step in your spiritual journey! Embracing Jesus and his teachings can bring immense joy and fulfillment to your life. You are on the path to experiencing God’s love and transforming your life.

The next step is to pray the following prayer with an open heart, and trust that Jesus will guide you towards his plans for you. Remember, you have already made a wise decision by wanting to follow Jesus! Let’s take the next step together, and make sure to pray out loud.

Step 1:

Pray to God, asking His forgiveness.

Dear God, I come to You today asking forgiveness of my sins and asking Jesus Christ into my heart and life as my Savior and Lord. I believe Jesus is Your Son. I believe He came to earth and was crucified so that I might receive forgiveness of my sins, the promises of Your Word and eternal life. I believe Jesus rose from the grave and is now seated at Your right hand in Heaven. I pray that You would fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to read and to study Your Word, to pray and to praise You all the days of my life. Thank You for loving me and forgiving me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Prayer of Forgiveness

If you just prayed that prayer, you are now a child of God! You don’t need to doubt it. You have made the most important decision of your lifetime.

Step 2:

Tell others about your decision to invite Jesus into your heart.

The Bible encourages us to share our faith and tell others about the wonderful gift of salvation. Professing our decision to follow Jesus may seem daunting, but with the Holy Spirit’s strength, we can spread the good news fearlessly.

Whether you choose to go up to the altar during your church’s invitation or share your decision with a trusted loved one, know that God is with you always. Don’t let fear hold you back from proclaiming your love for God.

Remember that through His grace and love, we can overcome anything! So go ahead and share the joy of your faith with others – you never know who you might inspire along the way.

Step 3:

Be water baptized.

It is crucial that you seize the opportunity to be water baptized, just as Jesus himself was. Rest assured, there is no need to be hesitant about this decision, as it will be a swift and straightforward process.

The person who will baptize you in your church will pour water on your forehead or submerge you underwater for a moment in some instances. This will mark the end of your sinful past and your rebirth in Christ. Through baptism, you will cleanse your soul from sin and walk forth with confidence as a new creation in Christ.

Step 4:

Pray for and receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

It’s time for you to receive the miraculous baptism of the Holy Spirit! You can experience this beautiful gift from God in one of two ways, by having someone lay hands on you and pray or through your own prayer.

Once you are filled with the Holy Spirit, you will speak in a heavenly language that will be different from your own, and it will be an amazing experience.

Don’t worry; this unusual language is a beautiful expression of your spirit and a divine way of communicating with God. Remember, the baptism of the Holy Spirit is not a requirement for your salvation, but it is a fantastic blessing that you must not miss out on. This experience will transform your life, and you will be filled with a new sense of power and joy as you grow stronger in your faith.

Step 5:

Congratulations Citizen of Heaven!

Congratulations on this important step in your spiritual journey! Your decision to become a child of Christ is one that will transform your life for the better. This is just the beginning of an exciting and fulfilling journey filled with blessings and purpose.

You are not alone in your newfound faith. You now have access to an incredible support system that will cheer you on every step of the way. The Holy Spirit will be your constant guide, and we are here to provide you with the resources you need to grow and flourish in your relationship with Christ.

Let this be the start of a life-changing adventure where you embrace every opportunity to glorify God, love others, and live according to His will. Remember, you are a cherished child of God, and you are destined for greatness!

The post Open the Door and Invite Jesus into Your Heart first appeared on The Story Retold.