Salvation is not a series of check-boxes to be checked. That is more like religion. Salvation, in this sense instead, is about a relationship with Jesus. That relationship is built in studying the Bible (God’s Word), fellowship (relationships with other Jesus followers), and prayer (conversations with Jesus).
Romans 3:23 says we all fall short. Ultimately, sin is breaking God’s rules. Sin is important because it separates us from God. Jesus set the standard by living a sinless life. God sent His son, Jesus Christ, to live among us, be tempted, and die for our sins by being crucified. (By the way, even if you do not believe in God, Jesus still died for you. Do a quick search on crucifixion to see how that kind of death works.) While sin separates, Jesus restores. Jesus came, lived, and taught the Word of God. He died for you and me—for our sins. He arose from the dead after three days. Then, He ascended into heaven.
We admit our shortcomings. Profess our belief in Jesus being the Son of God. We repent of our sins by literally taking a 180-degree turn away from them, making great effort to model Jesus in our lives. Commit to living more like Jesus every day by studying God’s Word, interacting with other Jesus followers in fellowship, consistent prayer, and worship. Share your experiences in terms of how Jesus has changed your life. Develop your relationship with Jesus through Bible study and prayer. Get involved with a Bible-based church because faith comes from hearing. Confess Jesus is your Lord and Savior. Watch sermons online or listen to Biblically-based podcasts. Know that salvation is a free gift from our loving God. We do not earn it; we can’t. We accept it, and then we try to live it out by loving God and loving others.
In short, we are imperfect people living in an imperfect world saved by a perfect Savior. Jesus is the way.
dr. jason newcomb 