GOD WITH US

Throughout the Bible we will read about how God wanted relationship with mankind. But then there was this issue called sin that wreaked havoc on this beautiful friendship.

How did we become enslaved to sin?

Don't you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living. Romans 6:16

As slaves to sin, we are headed towards death. But God in His love for mankind took on flesh through His Son Jesus to make a way for restoration of this relationship and freedom from sin.

But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. We have a choice to make as to what or who we will follow. Our own sinful desires? Or the One who came to rescue us from this slavery and shows us to live freely in the relationship God wants to have with us.

We are designed to be in relationship, to crave love, to have belonging and purpose. Often our lives are spent seeking to obtain things, friends, status, and rewards, searching for answers to the meaning of life. Until we recognize that Jesus is the only one who will fully satisfy the deepest longing of our souls, we often wear ourselves out chasing expectations of the world around us. Without Jesus, our souls are vacant and empty. Only He can bring our hearts the peace we long for.

JESUS LOVES YOU

Through His death on the cross, and then coming back from the dead, Jesus exchanged our sin for salvation. We can have a fresh start because of Jesus. Through this exchange we can be made holy, right, and justified. It’s as simple as repenting of your sin, declaring you want to follow Jesus, and believing He is who He says He is. Following Jesus is about spending your life getting to know Him more and doing what He leads you to do. We do this through prayer, studying His Word, the Bible, and being part of the a local church where we find life and encouragement with other Jesus followers.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

Following Jesus is a different life where you're called to be a light and source of God's love to everyone around you.

Recommended Reads

The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel

Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

TAKE A STEP

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. Romans 10:9

Believing involves an act of faith, based on all that we know about Jesus. It's is not blind faith. It is putting our trust in a Person.

Here are three simple words that describe how you can take this step:

Sorry. Ask God to forgive you for all the things you have done wrong and turn from everything which you know is wrong in your life. This is what the word repentance means in the Bible.

Thank You. Thank Jesus for His free gift of salvation, forgiveness, and freedom.

Please. Accept His gift and invite Him to come and live within you by His Spirit.

Start with this simple prayer;

"Jesus, I know I need you. I surrender my life to You today. Forgive me of all the things I have done wrong in my past, wash me clean, be my Forgiver and Leader. Rescue me with Your love, flood my life with Your love. Show me Your way, Your truth, and restore life into me today. Holy Spirit come now and help me to walk in Your power and perfect peace. Thank you that I can now walk freely in the plans you have for me. In Your name I pray, Amen."

Congratulations on your decision to follow Jesus! You may be wondering what's next in your journey. We would love to hear from you! Please let us know so we can join you on your journey.

TELL SOMEONE WHAT'S NEXT?

WHAT ABOUT CHURCH

The church, the bride of Christ, is God's designed family. One of the best ways to find support and connection is by coming to church. At BeLoved City Church we want to journey with you in knowing God, finding freedom, discovering purpose, and then making a difference. Whatever season of life you may be in, there is a place for you.

COME TO CHURCH JOURNEY TOGETHER