A question that deserves an answer.

Introduction Most people think if you have money, you have all the advantages in life. The disciples so thought - Mark 10: Jesus showed that riches can be a distinct disadvantage - Mark 10: We want to show that the real advantages in this life are to those who are following Christ.

Why Be A Christian? Our Faith and Hope are in God. 1 Peter 1:20-21 We believe we are made in the image of God. Genesis 1: We will give an account to our Maker. Believing that man evolved from animals (organic evolution) doesn't give man much dignity. We continue to build on our faith - Jude

Why Be A Christian? An Inward Satisfaction. A. There is a personal satisfaction in knowing we are what God wants us to be. God wants all to honor His Son. John 5:22-23 We do this by wearing His name, becoming Christians. Acts 11:26; 1 Peter 4:16; Acts 26: Our inward spirits bear witness with the H.S. that we are children of God. Romans 8: Our spirits testify that we have done what the H.S. revealed. There is something very gratifying in the inner-self in knowing that were are pleasing to our Creator.

Why Be A Christian? Forgiveness of Sins. One must receive remission of sins before he can become a Christian in the first place. John 8:24 - Many will die in their sins - but they don't need to. Christians continue to have the blessings of forgiveness. 1 John 1:9; 2:1-2; Acts 8:22 Think of the great relief to know that every sin we've ever committed has been forgiven.

Why Be A Christian? The Blessing of Prayer. There is help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16; 10:21-22 It is the Christian that has access to the Father. Ephesians 2:18 Would the person who fails to honor the Son by becoming a Christian have access? Proverbs 28:9

Why Be A Christian? An Inner Joy. 1 Peter 1:8 - "Joy inexpressible" words cannot describe it, nor can it be exhausted with words. One must experience it for himself. "And full of glory" - full of honor and praise, having a sense of dignity and greatness. Psalm 34:8 1 Peter 2:3-5 - "have tasted" - since you have experienced the delights of the Lord, continue to come to Him.

Why Be A Christian? A Blessing to Society. Christians are like salt and light. Matthew 5:13-16 Employers have learned that Christians make better employees. If you were hiring someone, would you rather have a Christian or a worldly person working for you?

Why Be A Christian? Able to Cope with Hardships. There is a certain amount of adversity and hardship that comes to all. Ecclesiastes. 9:11- 12; Job 14:1-2 The Christian can have an inward peace. Philippians 4:6-7 One of the messages of the book of Revelation is that when God brings plagues upon the wicked, it will not hurt those who have the seal of God in their foreheads.

Why Be A Christian? Membership in a Local Congregation. Here we study God's word and increase our knowledge in His will. Here we have help and encouragement toward a common goal. There are some members in the local churches who are hypocrites, but also there some of the best people in the world.

Why Be A Christian? Makes a Better Family Member. A Christian makes a better husband, wife, father, or mother. Generally, children of Christian parents are better children. No greater heritage can be passed down, than Christianity.

Why Be A Christian? Manifold Blessings in this Life. Mark 10:29-30 Matthew 7:7-11 Ephesians 1:3

Why Be A Christian Because of the Heavenly Reward. In the age to come, eternal life. Mark 10:30 Everlasting joy. Revelation 21:4 The reward will far outweigh the price. Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:16 There remains a rest for the people of God. Hebrews 4:9-11

Why Be A Christian? To Avoid Eternal Punishment. Jesus solemnly warned against it. Mark 9:43-48; Luke 12:3-4. There is a great day of wrath coming when the adversaries will be destroyed. Romans 2:5; 1 Thessalonians 1:10 We are to fear. Hebrews 10:31 The fear of the Lord causes one to depart from evil. Proverbs 16:6

Conclusion Are there advantages to being a Christian? Yes, Many! It pays to be a Christian. Let us avail ourselves of the blessings. None of these blessings can be yours unless you are a Christian. You must be baptized into Christ. Galatians 3:26-27; Romans 6:3- 4 Let us who are Christians remain steadfast so that we can continue to enjoy the blessings. 1 John 1:7; 1 Corinthians 15:58