Introduction

In our previous article, we looked at The Cost of Becoming a Christian. In this article, we’ll look at the benefits of being a Christian and ask, Does it “pay” to be one?

This, of course, doesn’t have anything to do with money. Rather, some might ask, “Is it worth the time and effort to be a Christian?” We’ll explore the answer below.

The Benefits of Staying Lost

First, we’ll look at the benefits of NOT becoming a Christian. Sinners, hypocrites, the unfaithful, and, even Satan himself, states that there are no benefits to being saved.

• You Don’t Change—A Christian changes his lifestyle and worldview when he converts. Staying lost means continuing your life as it currently is. No need for hope in your life. You can continue to stress about your day-to-day life of “what to eat”, “what to wear”, “who’s talking about me”, “Do they find me attractive”, and so on.

• No Need to Attend—One of the biggest annoyances, for the unsaved, is that constant need to attend services. Getting out of bed, wearing appropriate clothing, pretending to listen in worship, etc. Staying lost affords you the ability to stay home so you don’t miss that all-important game or national event on television.

• No Need to Study—Some get the idea that studying the bible is just like being back in school. Quoting scripture, memorizing verses, and answering bible questions with a bible answer. Staying lost means, you don’t have to bother with studying but, keep a bible in your home for appearances sake.

There are other examples, but these will suffice. As Jesus said, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26) Those who find it preferable to stay lost do so at the forfeit of their own soul. And their eternity is assured in the eternity of Hell.

The Benefits of Being a Christian

• An Extended Family—Family doesn’t have to be blood-related and, more often than not, your spiritual family may be stronger. As the apostle Paul writes, Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:1) This is called the “Buddy System” and the goal is to hold each other accountable for our actions. We lift each other up when we’re tempted to return to a life of sin.

• The World becomes Smaller—As part of your extended family, when you go traveling across the country, and assemble with faithful brethren, you’ll find you have a lot in common aside from the faith. You’ll meet people who know others from your congregation whether they went to school or had a chance meeting with them during a visit in a gospel meeting. Some of these people will open their doors to you, in hospitality, as you visit the area (Heb. 13:2).

• Eternal Rest—Above all, this is the greatest benefit of being a Christian! Spending eternity with God the Father and His son, Jesus. As Jesus said, “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:12)

Conclusion

Yes, it does “pay” to be a Christian and it far outweighs the benefits of being lost. As Paul states, The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:16-18)

As the apostle Peter wrote, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you. (1 Peter 1:3-4)