We rejoice in your desire to seek salvation, as it is the most important decision anyone can make. You have taken a significant step by looking to the Word of God for guidance. As you have shared, Romans 10:9-10 states, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." This is the foundation of our faith.
We want you to understand the confession of Jesus as Lord involves surrendering your life to Him and believing in His resurrection from the dead, which is the foundation of salvation. If your heart and your words are in agreement, you are saved. However, confessing and genuinely believing in Jesus as Lord also means we turn from our sinful lives. Repentance is a critical part of salvation. Acts 3:19 says, "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord" (WEB).
To be a follower of Jesus means acknowledging the sins we have committed and turning away from them. This is not just a mental exercise, but a genuine change of heart that leads to a change in behavior. Jesus himself said, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15 WEB).
Living a holy life in obedience to Jesus Christ is what is meant by 'Follow and obey Jesus'. Living as a Christian means living a holy life where we live in obedience to Jesus Christ. Living in obedience to Jesus Christ means obeying His commandments.
We encourage you to read and study the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—as they provide a comprehensive account of Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Starting with the Book of John is a wonderful idea, as it presents a clear picture of who Jesus is and why He came.
Let us pray together for your salvation and spiritual growth:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, lifting up this person who is seeking salvation. We pray that You would open their heart and mind to receive the truth of Your Word. Help them to confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in their heart that You raised Him from the dead. Grant them the grace to turn away from their sins and follow Jesus in obedience.
Guide them as they read and study Your Word, especially the Gospels. Reveal Yourself to them in a profound way, and help them to grow in their faith and relationship with You. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, and equip them to live a life that honors and glorifies You.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
We are here to support you on this journey. Keep studying the Word, praying, and seeking God's will for your life. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, do not hesitate to reach out.