Two great moments in our lives are when we are born and when we discover why we were born. We were created for a reason—a divine purpose. Our lives are not accidents or fate. God has a personal plan for each of us. His purpose in our lives can only be accomplished because of Jesus Christ. A few simple, yet vitally important steps, are essential to knowing Him personally:
1. Recognize that you are a sinner.
First, you must admit your spiritual need: "There is none righteous, no, not one" (Romans 3:10). We can't make excuses or blame others and our circumstances for our actions. "For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
2. Recognize that Jesus Christ died on the
cross for you.
"For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the
unjust, that He might bring us to God..." (I Peter 3:18).
Jesus paid the price for your sin. The Apostle Paul said,
"...the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith
in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself
for me" (Galatians 2:20).
3. Repent of your sins.
The word "repent" means "to change your direction." The Bible tells us, "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord" (Acts 3:19). God commands us to repent. You must be willing to turn away from the things that displease God.
4. Accept Jesus as your Forgiver (Savior) and Leader (Lord).
Jesus said, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). It is essential that you come to Jesus as you are. Don't try to "clean up your life" before you come to God. Instead, receive Him and allow Him to do the "cleansing." Jesus said, "All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out" (John 6:37).
Are you ready to experience God’s amazing provision of grace through His Son, Jesus Christ? You can begin with a simple prayer from your heart:
God, today I open my heart and invite You inside. Please forgive me of my sins and lead my life from this day forward. In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you prayed to receive Christ, congratulations! Welcome to God's family. We'd like to celebrate with you and recommend some next steps if you'll let us know about your decision to follow Christ. We promise, no one will show up at your door or send you junk mail.
Your Next Step: Baptism
Baptism in water is an important next step to take after you have surrendered your life to Jesus Christ. First, it is a public acknowledgement that you are now a Christian, that is, a Christ-follower. Second, it symbolizes Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, and proclaims your new identity in Christ. Third, it demonstrates the fact that Christ has forgiven you and "washed" away your sins. Finally, it is an act of obedience to Christ.
To learn more about the exciting step of baptism, click here.
To inquire about the next baptism, or to ask a question, contact Pastor Margaret Foltz.