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What risks have you taken in life? Reaching out to be someone's friend? Moving out of your comfort zone to try something new? Standing up for what you thought was right, even when it went against "the crowd." Some might consider becoming a Christian a little risky, but it's not. In fact, there's nothing in the world more reliable and secure than a God who loves you and gave Himself for you. In all honestly, living without Him is what's risky--eternally risky! So, step out in faith. Eliminating this risk begins with a personal relationship with God's Son, Jesus. See how you can begin your Journey with Him:
in your personal opinion:
What do you understand it takes for a person to go to heaven?
Consider how the Bible answers this question. It is a matter of FAITH.
forgiveness
We cannot have eternal life and heaven without God's forgiveness.
("In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace"- Ephesians 1:7)
available
Forgiveness is available.
It is--Available for All. ("For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."- John 3:16)
But Not Automatic. ("Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven."- Matthew 7:21)
impossible
It is impossible for God to allow sin into heaven.
--Because of who He is: God is loving and just. His judgement is against sin. ("because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!"- James 2:13)
--Because of who we are: Every person is a sinner. ("for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
"- Romans 3:23)
But how can a sinful person enter heaven, when God allows no sin?
turn
Turn means repent.
Turn from something--sin and self. ("I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."- Luke 13:3)
Turn to Someone; trust Christ only. ("That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."- Romans 10:9)
heaven
Heaven is eternal life.
Here... ("I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."- John 10:10)
Hereafter... ("And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."- John 14:3)
How? How can a person have God's forgiveness, heaven and eternal life, and Jesus as personal Savior and Lord? By trusting in Christ and asking Him for forgiveness.
Take another step of faith described by another meaning of FAITH:
Forsaking
All,
I
Trust
Him.
Just praying this Simple Prayer does not save you. Without the knowledge of your sinfulness and a true desire to repent, this prayer is only words on a page. If you are not ready yet, you might want to review some of the verses above or read the Good News more in depth. If you truly desire to be washed of your sin and repent, the example prayer below can help you in confessing this to God.
Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner and have displeased You in many ways. I believe You died for my sin and only through faith in Your death and resurrection can I be forgiven. I want to turn from my sin and ask You to come into my life as my Savior and Lord. From this day on, I will follow You by living a life that pleases You. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for loving and forgiving me. Amen.
"Okay, so I've prayed to God for salvation. Now what?"
Now tell someone about the important decision you have made. Grow in your faith and enjoy new friends in Christ by becoming part of His church and attending the Sunday School class a church has just for you. Get some more tips for new Christians...
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