The core gospel message
October 16, 2026Question: What is involved in trying Jesus? (M.v.A.)
Answer provided by Pastor Wilfred Masih (Scotland)
'Try Jesus' sounds like an unusual invitation. How do you try someone you cannot see? Does it mean joining a church, accepting Christian belief, or setting aside your questions?
Perhaps it could start with something much simpler: being willing to explore who Jesus is, what he taught, and whether there are any good reasons to actually trust him.
Christianity teaches that Jesus is more than a wise teacher. Christians believe that, through his life, death and resurrection, God came close to humanity, offering forgiveness, hope and a new beginning. Those are extremely significant claims. You deserve the opportunity to examine them yourself, thoughtfully and without pressure.
Here are some practical ways to start the journey.
1. Get to know Jesus for yourself.
Start with one of the accounts of his life in the Bible, such as the Gospel of Mark or John. Read a short passage each day. (If you don't have a Bible, get one via www.freebible.uk)
Notice how Jesus treats people, especially those who feel excluded, ashamed or uncertain. Consider what he teaches about love, suffering, forgiveness and God.
Ask yourself: What interests me? What troubles me? Is there anything I like to understand better?
2. Try an honest prayer.
You do not need special words, just know that someone is listening. You might say:
“God, I’m not sure what I believe. If you are there, help me understand who Jesus is and whether I can trust him.”
Prayer can begin with uncertainty. There is always room for questions, frustration and silence.
3. Put something Jesus taught into practice.
Jesus invited people to love their neighbours, care for those in need, speak truthfully and show mercy. Choose one teaching and explore what living it might involve.
You do not need to prove every Christian claim. It gives you a practical way to engage with Jesus’ teaching and reflect on how it shapes your relationships and life choices.
4. Explore your questions with others.
Speak with a thoughtful person or a Christian believer, join a discussion group, or contact the Adventist Discovery Centre inquiring for a faith community in your area.
You are free to ask difficult questions, disagree and take your time. An open and honest conversation will respect your freedom to reach your own conclusions.
In closing
Trying Jesus does not guarantee that all your problems will disappear or that you will immediately feel something extraordinary. Christians also experience doubt, grief and unanswered prayer. Feelings alone cannot define whether a belief is true.
The invitation is to investigate, explore, reflect and then maybe respond in an honest way. As you learn more about Jesus’ life and teachings, you may find yourself moving toward renewed faith, or even more questions. Either way, it’s ok.
Start with John 1:35–39, where Jesus invites you: “Come and see.” See the answer of Jesus' first reluctant disciple, Nathanael.
If you would like to explore further, we offer our book called Try Jesus! Use this form to request a free copy and take your next step in discovering who Jesus is.