Everything we do as a church, and the reason we exist in the first place, is because of God’s gift of forgiveness through his Son Jesus (see Romans 6:23 and Romans 11:36).
While many spend their lives trying to earn God’s approval by following rules, attending religious services, or being a good person, the only way to God is through a relationship with Jesus Christ. In Christ, we find welcome, forgiveness, help and purpose for our lives, and an eternal future with God.
Because of God’s love for all people, He desires that you have a personal relationship and unbroken fellowship with Him. (John 3:16; Ephesians 2:4-5)
All people are "sinners" in that they disobey God. Sin is choosing to go your own way and do your own thing as opposed to being obedient to God. (Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:10)
Sin forms a barrier that prevents you from entering into unbroken fellowship with God, Who is holy. As an unholy sinner, you can’t have fellowship with God. You are headed for a Christless eternity that the Bible calls Hell.
(Isaiah 59:2; Romans 3:23)
People often think that through their efforts they can overcome the sin barrier between themselves and God. That isn’t true. There’s nothing you can do to restore the broken relationship with God. You can’t earn God’s salvation. That’s the bad news. (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Romans 4:4-5)
Here’s the good news! What you cannot do for yourself, Jesus Christ has done for you! Your sin is a barrier between you and God. But the Good News is that Jesus died on the cross for you and then rose from the dead to demonstrate that His payment was acceptable to God. By taking your punishment on Himself, Jesus made a way for relationship with God. (1 Peter 2:23; Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 10:9)
Faith is trusting in what Jesus has done for you rather than trusting your own efforts to restore fellowship with God. Faith is complete reliance on Christ to put you in right relationship with God, allowing Him to live His life through you. Faith also involves repentance or genuine sorrow for sin and willingness to turn away from sin and to God, surrendering to Him as the Lord and leader of your life. (John 14:6; Acts 16:31; Romans 10:9-10)
Admit to God that you are a sinner. Express sorrow or repentance for your sinfulness. Ask Him to forgive your sins. Invite Jesus into your life as Savior and Lord. Commit yourself to live for Him.
