There is a lot of confusion over what it means to be a Christian. That question has been the subject of everything from jokes to wars. Ordinary folks are routinely bombarded with demands from evangelists, charities, and churches, all seeking to recruit them into their own organizations. Their common theme is an insistence that to be Christian, one has to be one of them. And that is not true at all.
Going to church does not make you a Christian. Church may be informative, enjoyable, reassuring, and socially comfortable. You might find inspiration and motivation there to become Christian. But churches also present a confusing array of rituals, practices, and ecclesiastical hierarchy that have nothing to do with being Christian. Unfortunately, those attributes are often urged on church goers as being necessary for salvation. People start to think that being Christian means accepting and following those rules and practices. It's OK to be a dutiful church member. But do not think that makes you a Christian.
So, if not church and all that church entails, what then? How does one become a Christian?
John wrote: "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.
And Jesus said: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30.
So there it is, written so plainly that all can understand. Believe in Jesus, come to Him, submit to Him, and learn of Him. When you do that earnestly and without reservation, you are a Christian.