What is the gospel and how can I be saved?
The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ; He came to rescue people from their sins and the penalty for those sins. The Bible says, "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Jesus came to the earth, being fully God and fully man so that He would take upon Himself the pains of humanity, the problems of humanity and the penalty of humanity. God's love for us is complete, but we have a problem - sin.
Similar to an arrow falling short of its target, the Bible says that all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). It continues to say that the penalty for our sin is death (Romans 6:23) - not just physical death, but spiritual death (eternal separation from God's love, grace, and mercy). The penalty for our sin is great, but Jesus stepped into our place. He took upon Himself the pain, the problems and the penalty of sin. After His death upon the cross of Calvary, He was laid in a borrowed tomb and the tomb was sealed. However, on the Sunday morning following His death, disciples approached the tomb to find it empty. That's right, Jesus is alive!
So then, what must I do to be saved?
Just like making a U-turn on the road, the Bible says that you must make a U-turn in your life. While you are going away from Jesus in your life of sin, you must make a U-turn and devote your life to Him. Acts 3:19 says, "Therefore repent and turn back, that your sins may be wiped out so that seasons of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." In order to be saved, you must turn from your life of sin and devote your life to Jesus.
It is not your works (or achievements) that saves you. The Bible says that we are saved by God's grace (alone) which He favored us with in Christ Jesus. This gift of salvation through faith in Christ is a free gift.
If you would like to devote your life to Jesus and receive the free gift of salvation, please say this prayer:
"Lord, I know I am a sinner and I need a Savior. Please forgive me of my sins and take over in my life - I give it to You freely. Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins, and rising again to give me a new life. In Jesus name I pray, Amen."
If you have decided to devote your life to Jesus and receive the free gift of salvation, please contact our church office to share the good news (205) 663-7904! We would love to talk with you further about the decision you've made and assist you as you begin your Christian journey by following up with believer's baptism.
