Have you ever found yourself wondering, “What now?” after accepting Christ as your Savior? You’re not alone. Many believers experience stagnation in their faith journey, struggling to move beyond the initial moment of salvation. But the Gospel demands more from us—it calls us to action, to go forth and make disciples. So how do we bridge the gap between the Gospel’s demands and our daily lives?
This heavenly nudge reminds us that there’s work to be done before Christ’s return. We’re called to fulfill the Great Commission, as Jesus instructed in Matthew 28:19-20:
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
The journey of faith is more than just saying “yes” to the Lord. While salvation marks the beginning, it’s crucial to progress beyond this point. The disciples faced a similar moment of uncertainty after witnessing Jesus ascend to Heaven. As they stood gazing at the sky, angels appeared with a clear message:
Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into Heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into Heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into Heaven —Acts 1:11
But why do so many Christians struggle to engage in this mission? A study by the Gospel Coalition revealed a startling truth: when non-believers ask Christians about the impact of their faith, many believers struggle to articulate how Jesus has changed their lives. This disconnect points to a superficial faith—a shallow conviction that results in powerless experiences.
To move beyond this superficial faith, we must examine the story of Peter and John healing the lame beggar at the temple gate (Acts 3:1-10). This miraculous event offers three key insights that can transform our faith from shallow to profound:
1. Embrace Your Identity in Christ
Peter’s ability to perform miracles stemmed from his unshakeable identity as a forgiven child of God. Despite his past failures—denying Christ, abandoning his call—Peter experienced a radical transformation. He knew, deep in his soul, that he was forgiven. This conviction became the foundation of his powerful ministry.
Many of us intellectually understand God’s forgiveness, but we haven’t truly experienced it on a personal level. To move beyond superficial faith, we must daily meditate on the truth of our forgiveness and pray for a personal experience of God’s grace. Let your identity as a forgiven child of God shape every aspect of your life.
2. Cultivate Vulnerability for Christ
The healing of the lame man occurred at the “Beautiful Gate”—a highly public space where worshippers entered the temple courts. Peter didn’t hesitate to proclaim Jesus’ name in this setting, despite the potential risks. In a society where such actions could lead to severe consequences, Peter demonstrated remarkable vulnerability for the sake of Christ.
How often do we express our faith publicly? Many Christians, fearing conflict or damage to their reputation, become “secret believers.” But Peter’s example challenges us to be vulnerable for Christ, willing to risk everything to honor Him. Are you ready to give Jesus space to work through you, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone?
3. Plug into the Right Source
When confronted with the lame beggar’s need, Peter declared, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” (Acts 3:6). Peter recognized that true power comes not from worldly wealth, but from connection to Christ.
While wealth itself isn’t sinful, our dependence on it can become an idol that hinders our spiritual growth. We need to remember that if we do not master silver or gold, silver or gold will master us. Peter’s heart transformation allowed him to see the beggar through Christ’s eyes, moved by compassion rather than focused on material concerns. Are you plugged into the right source? Has your heart been transformed to see the world as Jesus does?
The miracle at the Beautiful Gate wasn’t just about physical healing—it was a demonstration of the profound change that occurs when we fully embrace our identity in Christ, cultivate vulnerability for His sake, and remain connected to Him as our ultimate source.
If you find yourself asking “What now?” after salvation, it’s time to examine where you’re plugged in. Salvation isn’t just about eternal life in the future; it’s an invitation to enjoy and worship God forever, starting right now. Heaven will be an eternity of discovering the inexhaustible nature of God – and our life on earth is meant to be a foretaste of that worship.
To move beyond superficial faith, we must continually plug into Jesus as our source. When we do, a change of heart and vision is inevitable. We begin to see the world through His eyes, moved by compassion and empowered to make a difference.
As you reflect on your faith journey, ask yourself:
1. Have I truly experienced God’s forgiveness, or is it just head knowledge?
2. Am I willing to be vulnerable for Christ, even in challenging situations?
3. What is my primary source of strength and guidance – worldly resources or a deep connection with Jesus?
Remember, the Gospel demands action. It calls us to move, to go, and to be witnesses of Christ’s transformative power. Don’t remain stagnant in your faith. Embrace your identity in Christ, cultivate vulnerability for His sake, and stay plugged into the true source of power. As you do, you’ll find your faith deepening, your vision expanding, and your life becoming a powerful testimony to the life-changing impact of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Joshua Ryu