What Must I Do To Inherit Eternal Life?
This is a question we must all face before we leave this earth. It was actually a question asked of Jesus while He walked on this earth. In Mark 10:17 we read, “And as Jesus was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Are there steps we can take to insure our salvation and open the door to eternal life? Yes, and these steps are found in the scriptures. They are sometimes identified as the “Roman Road”, since all of the passages are found in the Book of Romans.
The Roman Road
Step 1. We must acknowledge God as the Creator of everything, accepting our humble position in God’s created order and purpose. Romans 1:20-21
“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.”
Step 2. We must realize that we are sinners and that we need forgiveness. None of us are worthy under God’s standards. Romans 3:23
“For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God.”
Step 3. God gave us the way to be forgiven of our sins. He showed us His love by giving us the potential for life through the death of His Son, Jesus Christ. Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates His love toward us, in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Step 4. If we remain sinners, we will die. However, if we repent of our sins, and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we will have eternal life. Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Step 5. Confess that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you are saved. Romans 10:9-10
“That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”
The Roman Road shows you the path – are you ready to receive God’s gift of Salvation now? If so, believe in what Jesus Christ did for you on the cross, repent of your sins, and commit the rest of your life to Him. This is not a ritual, just a prayerful guideline for your sincere step of faith:
“Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ, died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”
If you have earnestly prayed to receive Jesus today, welcome to God’s family. But what happens now? What should you do as you begin your new life in Christ?
First, tell someone else about your new faith in Christ. This confirms the fact that you have purposed in your heart to walk in the light and no longer in darkness.
Secondly, begin spending time with God each day. It does not have to be a long period of time. Just develop the daily habit of praying to Him and reading His Word. Ask God to increase your faith and your understanding of the Bible.
Thirdly, seek fellowship with other followers of Jesus. Develop a group of believing friends to answer your questions and support you.
Fourthly, find a local church where you can worship God. If you have never been baptized, speak to the pastor about how and when you may receive baptism.
Did you become a follower of Jesus today? If so, please contact the church and let us know. We would love to welcome you into the family of God and provide you with helpful information to encourage you in your new life in Christ.