FOLLOW JESUS
JESUS IS OUR MESSAGE
'He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. ' - Colossians 1:15-20
CONNECTING WITH GOD STARTS WITH TRUST
Like any other relationship, if we want to connect with God, we have to choose to trust that He was who He said He was. Jesus said he was the way to connect with God. He has the power to forgive our sins and transform us from the inside out because of His death on the cross and resurrection. (John 14:6; 11:25, Romans 12:9)
TRANSFORMATION ISN’T YOUR JOB
Jesus said that the old way of trying to earn our way to God was finished. We can’t do anything to make God love us more, and we can’t undo or do anything to hinder God’s love for us because His love never ends. (John 19:30, Ephesians 2:4-7)
YOUR NEW LIFE IS A SERIES OF NEXT STEPS
Following Jesus is about taking your next step. New life happens immediately when we place our trust in Jesus, but transformation is a lifelong journey. Jesus has given you a new life, a true life, and our new identities are revealed over time. God isn’t surprised when you mess up. He knows you will, and that’s why He’s saved you! God has given us the Holy Spirit to walk with us and guide us as we take our next steps. (John 14:15-17, Philippians 1:6)
SALVATION IS GOD’S GIFT
Romans 10:9 says: “If you declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
If you are not sure whether you are right with God or if you know that you need to begin a relationship with Jesus, you can choose to follow Him right now. Trust Him and pray this prayer…
Jesus, I need you. I’m sorry that I’ve lived my life without you. I’m sorry that I’ve been selfish. I repent of my sins. I change my mind, and ask you to change the direction of my life. Would you come live inside of me and change me from the inside out. Make me brand new. I surrender my whole life to you, and today I choose to follow you. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
If you prayed that prayer and meant it, you are a Christian.
You might not feel any different, but the gospel is about facts not feelings, and if you have put your faith in Christ than you have been forgiven and He has come in to your life.