
Accepting Christ
3. Accepting Christ: Salvation and New Life
Accepting Christ is the moment a person responds to the Gospel with faith, repentance, and surrender. It is not merely repeating words or agreeing with Christian teachings, but a heart-deep belief that Jesus is Lord, combined with a desire to turn from sin and live for Him. Romans 10:9 says, "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
Salvation is the act of being rescued from the penalty of sin and given new life in Christ. It is a gift of grace, we do not earn it through good works, but receive it by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). When someone accepts Jesus, they are forgiven, made new, and adopted into the family of God (2 Corinthians 5:17). The Holy Spirit enters their life to guide, comfort, and transform them from within.
Here is an example of a sincere salvation prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I ask You to forgive me. I turn away from my old ways and choose to follow You. Come into my life, be my Lord and Savior, and help me live for You. Amen."
Praying this prayer sincerely marks the beginning of a new life in Christ. From that point forward, the believer begins the journey of walking with God daily.