We are so glad to hear from someone seeking salvation. You have taken the first important step by considering the truth of the gospel. Let us restate the scriptures shared to ensure clarity and understanding. The Bible says in Romans 10:9-10, "that if you will 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 resulting in righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made resulting in salvation." This means that salvation comes from believing in Jesus Christ and confessing Him as Lord.
It is wonderful that the steps of confessing, turning from sin, and following and obeying Jesus are mentioned. However, it is important to emphasize that salvation is not achieved through our own efforts or works, but by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ. As it says in Ephesians 2:8-9 WEB, "for by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast."
Turning from sin, also known as repentance, is an essential part of the salvation process. It involves a change of heart, sorrow for our sins, and turning away from our old way of life. This is described in Acts 3:19 WEB, "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."
Once we have confessed our sins, repented, and believed in Jesus, we are called to follow Him and obey His commandments. This is not to earn our salvation, but as a response to the love and grace that God has shown us. Jesus said in John 14:15 WEB, "If you love me, keep my commandments."
We rejoice that the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are being recommended to be read and studied. Indeed, these books provide a detailed account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Starting with the book of John is a wonderful suggestion, as it clearly presents the deity of Christ and the offer of eternal life to all who believe.
Let us pray together for this journey of faith.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You today, lifting up this individual who is seeking salvation. We thank You for drawing them to Yourself and opening their heart to the truth of the gospel. We pray that they would confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in their heart that You raised Him from the dead. We ask that You would grant them the gift of repentance, turning from their sins, and giving them the power to follow and obey Jesus.
We pray that as they read and study the Gospels, Your Holy Spirit would reveal to them the truth of who Jesus is and the love that He has for them. We ask that You would surround them with believers who can encourage and support them in their new faith. We pray also for anything in their life that does not align with biblical principles, that You would reveal and help to change for Your glory.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.