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Following Jesus
God loves us personally and created us for a relationship with Him. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16
We have individually rebelled against God our Creator and broken His law. As a consequence we are separated spiritually from Him and are deserving of death and Hell. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
God Himself provided the way to restore a relationship with Him by sending His Son, Jesus Christ to die on our behalf. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
To become a Christ-follower, we must each ask for God’s forgiveness, accept Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death on our behalf, and commit to follow Him the rest of our lives. To as many as received Him (Jesus), to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name. John 1:12
At SHV we do not pressure or guilt you into a relationship with God. Instead, we seek to inform and encourage you, to answer your questions, and allow you to progress in your spiritual journey at a pace that you can confidently move forward in your understanding and commitment.
If you have questions, or would like to talk further with a staff member about what it means to become a follower of Christ, please call us at 303.690.2520, or ask to speak to one of us at a Welcome Center on Sunday.
We also offer small group experiences and classes that allow you to address the important spiritual questions you are facing in a safe, non-threatening environment. For more information on classes, visit the SHV Groups page.
What does it mean to accept Jesus as your personal Savior? Have you ever accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Before you answer, allow me to explain the question. To properly understand this question, you must first properly understand "Jesus Christ," "personal" and "Savior."
Who is Jesus Christ? Many people will acknowledge Jesus Christ as a good man, great teacher, or even a prophet of God. These things are most definitely true of Jesus, but they do not define who He truly is. The Bible tells us that Jesus is God in the flesh, God become a human being (see John 1:1,14). God came to earth to teach us, heal us, correct us, forgive us - and die for us! Jesus Christ is God, the Creator, the sovereign Lord. Have you accepted this Jesus?
What is a Savior and why do we need a Savior? The Bible tells us that we have all sinned, we have all committed evil acts (Romans 3:10-18). As a result of our sin, we are worthy of God's anger and judgment. The only just punishment for sins committed against an infinite and eternal God is an infinite punishment (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:11-15). That is why we need a Savior!
Jesus Christ came to earth and died in our place. Jesus' death, as God in the flesh, was an infinite payment for our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins (Romans 5:8). Jesus paid the price so that we would not have to. Jesus' resurrection from the dead proved that His death was sufficient to pay the penalty for our sins. That is why Jesus is the one and only Savior (John 14:6; Acts 4:12)! Are you trusting in Jesus as your Savior?
Is Jesus your "personal" Savior? Many people view Christianity as attending church, performing rituals, not committing certain sins. That is not Christianity. True Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Accepting Jesus as your personal Savior means placing your own personal faith and trust in Him. No one is saved by the faith of others. No one is forgiven for doing certain deeds. The only way to be saved is to personally accept Jesus as your Savior, trusting His death as the payment for your sins, and His resurrection as your guarantee of eternal life (John 3:16). Is Jesus personally your Savior?
If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, say the following words to God. Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. It is only trusting in Christ that can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation.
"God, I know that I have sinned against you and deserve punishment. But Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I turn away from my sin and place my trust in You for salvation. I accept Jesus as my personal Savior! Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness - the gift of eternal life! Amen!"
20050 East Smoky Hill Road, Centennial, CO 80015 | Phone 303.690.2520
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