What it means to follow Jesus
Our need for Jesus
The reality is sin separates us from God and the relationship He wants to have with us. Sin creates a barrier between us (Isaiah 59:2).
The good news is that He made a way back from sin. God sent His only Son, Jesus, to be born as a human, to show us how to live in relationship with Him, and then to die for us. When Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, sin was conquered forever. Jesus’ sacrifice broke down the barrier between God and us! Offering His perfect life for ours means our sins can not only be forgiven…but also forgotten. We just have to accept God’s perfect gift and begin a journey with Him (Romans 3:24-25).
What’s the next step?
- Admit your need. (I am a sinner.)
- Be willing to turn from your sins (repent) and ask for God’s forgiveness.
- Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from the grave.
- Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to come in and control your life through the Holy Spirit. (Receive Jesus as Lord and Savior)
Here’s a prayer you could say:
“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I want to turn from my sins, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe He died for my sins and that You raised Him to life. I want Him to come into my heart and to take control of my life. I want to trust Jesus as my Savior and follow Him as my Lord from this day forward. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”
Welcome to the family!
Faith in Jesus isn’t a one-and-done kind of thing. It’s a lifelong journey, and you’ll need a little help along the way. We all do. Try to find a mentor or group of friends you can talk and pray with on a regular basis…and please consider joining a church in your community. It might take a while to find the right fit, but it will be so worth the effort!