The common myth that humankind is basically good is not supported by the Bible. Yes, we were originally created good, but the first man and woman disobeyed God and we are all now infected with the disease called “sin” and are spiritually separated from God. And there’s nothing we can do on our own to remedy that situation.

The good news is that God has provided a way out of our dilemma. God’s Son, Jesus Christ, lived a perfect, sinless life and then died on a cross to pay the penalty for our sins. He was buried in a tomb and then He rose from the grave to demonstrate His power over death and to give us eternal life.

Those who personally choose to receive the forgiveness that God offers will be restored to a right relationship with Him. This new life is a gift. It cannot be earned by doing lots of good deeds and it cannot be revoked by our failures—it’s all the free gift of a gracious God. But you must personally receive this gift.

“As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name.” (John 1:12)

“By grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Receiving Christ involves turning to God (repentance) and following Christ… inviting Him to come into your life to forgive your sins and be the leader of your life. Just to agree intellectually that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He died on the cross for your sins is not enough. Nor is it enough to have an emotional experience. You receive Jesus Christ by faith, as an act of the will. You must choose to follow Him.

If there’s never been a moment in your life when you’ve taken that step of faith and trusted Jesus for the forgiveness of your sins and asked Him to be the leader of your life, why not take a moment right now and talk to Jesus? Tell Him that you believe He is the one and only Son of God who died on the cross so that you could be forgiven. Acknowledge that you have sinned and that you need forgiveness. Invite Jesus to be the leader of your life, and then by faith, thank Him for giving you new life.

Questions about salvation? Contact one of our pastors.