Salvation: 5 Basic Steps

(All scripture quotes are from the NASB unless otherwise noted)

     At Truth For Christ, we try to be as simplistic as we possible can. Christian doctrine should be no exception. So when we try to explain the gift of salvation to non-believers as well as believers alike, we want to make it understandable to anyone. Below is what we feel are (5) basic steps that will lead you to salvation, and it all begins with knowing Jesus Christ.

Step 1 - Recognize that God loves you and has a plan for your life.

His love includes you

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." - John 3:16

He has new life for you
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." - John 10:10 

Step 2 - Recognize that sin separates you from God and others. 

Sin is walking our own way in rebellion against God's will. When we walk away from God, we walk away from life.  

Everyone has sinned

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." - Romans 3:23  

Sin brings death

"For the wages of sin is death..." - Romans 6:23  

As sinners we futilely try to find life's true meaning in the wrong ways and places. Our own efforts cannot save us.
 

He gives us the grace we need
"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9  

Step 3 - Recognize that Jesus Christ died and rose again for our sins. 

He died in our place

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8  

Jesus Christ is the way to new life

"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." - 2 Corinthians 5:17  

He gives inner peace

"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." - Romans 5:1

He gives freedom

"So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed." - John 8:36

He gives eternal life

"...but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:23  

Step 4 - You must repent and ask God for forgiveness. 

Admit and confess your sins to God

"He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion." - Proverbs 28:13

Repentance means:

To acknowledge your sins

To be sorry for your sins

To confess your sins

To be willing to forsake your sins

To have your life changed by Christ

Forgiveness is promised

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." - 1 John 1:9  

Step 5 - Place your trust in Christ and receive him as your Savior. 

Christ is ready

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me." - Revelation 3:20

Receive him now

"But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." - John 1:12

What to pray

Lord Jesus, I want to have life. I know that I have sinned. I need your forgiveness and pardon. I believe that You died and rose again for my sins. I now accept You as my personal Savior. I will forsake my sinful life. I know that Your grace and power will enable me to live for You. Thank You, Jesus, for saving me, and for giving me a new life.  

For help in living a meaningful life in Christ:

• Be assured of Christ's forgiveness.

• Read your Bible and pray daily.

• Find a concerned pastor and other Christians.

• Become a vital part of that church.

• Share your faith with others.