Encouraging Word
To me there are three basic Biblical truths that must be accepted in order to have a personal relationship with God and secure salvation.
- God Loves You. God’s unconditional love for mankind is the sole basis for salvation. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son . . .” Romans 5:8 points out, “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” And I John 4:10 explains, “This is love; not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”
- Sin Condemns. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned…” And Romans 6:23 adds, “For the wages (results, consequences) of sin is death (eternal separation from God)…” It is our sin that separates us from a Holy God. Dr. Charles Stanley, Pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta says that today’s biggest deception is “that there are no consequences to our sin.”
- Jesus Forgives and Saves. John 3:17 says, “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” Romans 6:23 also says, “…the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” and Romans 10:9 reminds us, “That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
You will take one of two things with you beyond the grave. You will either take your sin (which brings separation from God) or God’s Son (who paid the price for your sin). Claim I John 1:9 which says, “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Remember: God Loves – Sin Condemns – Jesus Saves!”
-Tony Cooper
Celebrating 27 Years of Service as Exec. Director, Jimmie Hale Mission
