Becoming a Christian

In your personal opinion, what does it take for a person to go to heaven? That question is answered in many ways because everyone has an opinion. The Bible answers it only one way and that is through a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is easily explained using one word: F-A-I-T-H.

F is for Forgiveness – One cannot have eternal life or heaven without God’s forgiveness. The Bible says, “In Him (meaning Jesus) we have redemption through His blood the forgiveness of sins.” Ephesians 1:7

A is for Available – Forgiveness is Available for ALL! The Bible says, “For God so loved the World that He gave His one and only Son so whoever believes in Him will never perish but will have eternal life.” John 3:16 Forgiveness is available but it is not automatic. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 7:21

I is for Impossible – It is impossible for God to allow sin into heaven. God is love. See John 3:16 above. He loved us enough to send His Son to die for us. God is also just. If we do not accept God’s forgiveness then James 2:13 says that “Judgment will be without mercy.” Man is SINFUL. The Bible says, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

That brings us to this question, How can man who is sinful get into heaven where God allows no sin? We must TURN!

T is for Turn – The Bible uses a word, repent; that means to turn or change direction. Turn from our sin and self. Jesus said, “Except you repent you will all perish.” Luke 13:3 Repenting also means we must: turn to Someone: trust Christ only. The Bible teaches that “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 The Bible also says, “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

H is for Heaven – Heaven is eternal life. Heaven is here and now. Jesus said, “I have come that they might have life and have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 Heaven is also hereafter. Jesus said, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:3 How can a person know they are going to Heaven? By believing and doing what Romans 10:9 (see above) says.

Understanding what we have shared, would you like to receive this forgiveness by trusting Christ as your personal Savior? This is accomplished through prayer. If the following prayer expresses the desire of your heart, pray it to God.

“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I want to be forgiven. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. Please forgive me and come into my life and be my Savior and Lord. Amen.”

If you prayed this prayer and meant it, welcome to the family of God! You have made the most important decision of your life. You can be sure that you are saved and have eternal life. We would like to know about your decision or perhaps talk to you more about your relationship to Christ. You may contact us at Woodburn Baptist Church at (270) 529-5221 or contact us through our website at www.woodburnbaptist.org.