The Bible makes this promise: Everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name. Acts 10:43 (NIV)
In the Bible, the word “believe” means more than just brain knowledge, it means “to make a __________________ to.” So, everyone who makes a commitment to live the rest of their life for Jesus, accepting the price that He paid for their sins on the cross, receives forgiveness.
Jesus said, “Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear Me calling and open the door, I will come in….” Revelation 3:20 (NLT)
Many people have come to Christ, had their sins forgiven, invited Him into their life by saying a prayer similar to this one:
God forgive me for all of my sins and come into my heart and life. I believe, with all I understand, that Jesus Christ is the Son of God…and God, I believe with all I understand that when Jesus Christ died on the cross, He paid for my sins. And, with all I understand I believe He rose from the dead. Right now, I’m saying ‘come in’ to Jesus. I’m trusting Him to forgive my sins and give me eternal life. Thank You for the fresh start You are giving me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”
When you pray that prayer, you are doing four things:
- _________________ you have sinned.
- _________________ that Jesus died to pay for your sins.
- _________________ God’s free gift of salvation by grace.
- _________________ Jesus to come into your life.
In the past you were without Christ…and you had no part in the promises that God made to His people. You had no hope, and you did not know God. But now you belong to Christ Jesus. Though you once were far away from God, now you have been brought near to Him because of the blood of Christ.
Ephesians 2:12-13 (NCV/NLT)