It is often asked how does one receive Jesus Christ as their Savior. Outlined below is the biblical basis for receiving Jesus as Lord.
We All Have Sinned
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
— Romans 3:23
What this means: Every person, at some point, has done things God calls wrong—whether by what we do, say, or even leave undone. That brokenness separates us from God’s perfect standard.
- Sin Has Consequences
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
— Romans 6:23
What this means: The natural “paycheck” or result of sin is death—a spiritual separation from God. But God offers a completely free gift: eternal life with Him through Jesus.
- God’s Love Demonstrated
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
— Romans 5:8
What this means: Even though we didn’t deserve it, Jesus died on the cross to take the punishment for our sins. That shows how deeply God loves you.
- Believe and Confess
“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 10:9–10
What this means: Salvation comes through two simple actions:
Confess out loud that Jesus is your Lord (the one in charge of your life).
Believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead—proof that sin has been defeated.
- Call on the Lord
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
— Romans 10:13
What this means: No matter who you are or what you’ve done, if you sincerely pray and call out to Jesus, He promises to save you.
Prayer of Salvation
If you’re ready to receive God’s gift of forgiveness and begin a new life with Jesus, you can pray this prayer in your own words or use it as a guide:
Heavenly Father,
I admit that I have sinned and fallen short of Your perfect standard (Romans 3:23). I thank You that the penalty for sin—death—has been taken by Jesus when He died on the cross (Romans 6:23, 5:8). Right now I confess with my mouth that Jesus is Lord, and I believe in my heart that You raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9–10). I turn from my old way of living and invite Jesus to be the Lord of my life. Thank You for forgiving all my sins and giving me eternal life (Romans 10:13). Help me to grow in faith, follow You each day, and share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
What Next?
Read your Bible daily. Start with one of the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John) to get to know Jesus.
Pray regularly. Talk to God honestly—He’s listening and cares about every detail of your life.
Find a community. Connect with a local church or small group where you can learn and grow with other believers.
Congratulations on taking this step! If you prayed that prayer sincerely, you are now a child of God (John 1:12). God bless you on this exciting journey of faith.