Jesus is God’s only son who was born on earth to live for one purpose: to die on a cross in order to redeem all of mankind from their sin.
If the story had ended there, we would have no hope. But on the third day after his death, Jesus Christ rose from the grave and in so doing defeated death, hell and the grave. (This is known as the resurrection and it is what Christians celebrate on Easter Sunday.)
The Bible teaches us that “God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only son, [Jesus], that whoever believes on him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Jesus also said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the father but through me” (John 14:6).
We are sinful and separated from God. The Bible says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). The result of sin is death and spiritual separation from God, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).
This is how much God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life (John 3:16 MSG).
It is easy to receive forgiveness of all our sin and begin a life of following Jesus. You cannot earn God’s salvation. It is a gift of grace through your faith in Jesus Christ and what he has done for you. You must do the following:
We encourage you to pray this prayer now: “Dear Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe you died for my sins and rose from the dead. I trust and follow you as my Lord and Savior. Guide my life and help me to do your will. In your name, amen.”
When you tell someone that you have decided to follow Jesus you begin to solidify your decision and make yourself accountable for beginning a new life.
Find a good church to get plugged in to and grow in your new life with Jesus! (Church is where you come together with others who have decided to follow Jesus. Your faith grows as you hear the word of God taught and worship together with others.)