The Problem
God created the world and humanity to live in perfection and peace. But you only need to look around and watch the evening news to see that something has gone terribly wrong. Humanity was appointed to take care of all things under God as Ruler, but we have rebelled against God’s rule. We have chosen instead to do things our way and not God’s. God’s way is the way of life. Our way has brought death. You probably don’t need to think very hard to see the ways in which your own bad choices have brought you and others pain. Imagine what God feels. And these bad choices – which are called sins – could separate you from God forever.

God’s solution
But God does not leave us in this terrible position. Because of his great love for us, he sent his one and only Son, the man Jesus, who was God himself in human form, to be born on earth and to live the life we could not. Because he was God, Jesus was without sin. His life was perfect and was the perfect example for us. He was, however, rejected by those he came to save and was killed on a cruel Roman device called the cross. In so doing, he took upon himself all the sins of the whole world – both past and present – and suffered the penalty for those sins that was reserved for us. But that is only part of the story…

God did not leave Jesus on the cross. After three days, He raised him from the dead and exalted him to the highest place, making him Ruler over all things both in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And from his throne in heaven, he offers you a choice.

Your choice
Jesus will allow you to continue in rebellion to his Rule. You can choose to be the master of your own destiny, choosing the path of sin and separation from God. The Bible says: The payment for sin is death…OR
Jesus offers you the free gift of eternal life if you put your faith and your trust in him and accept him as the Ruler of your life. This involves owning up to your sinfulness, believing that Jesus is the Lord, and believing that Jesus paid the penalty for your sin on the cross. If you give your entire life over to Jesus and begin to follow his Rule for your life, he gives you the promised Holy Spirit who will guide you into right decisions. …but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

You can begin your Christian journey by praying something like this:

Lord Jesus Christ,
I confess that I am a sinner and have rebelled against your Rule.
Please forgive me for all my mistakes.
I believe you died on the cross for my sins and I accept your forgiveness.
I give my whole life to you and ask you to fill me now with your Holy Spirit.
Thank you for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Next Steps
If you prayed that prayer, or are ready to begin your Christian journey, or if you simply have more questions, email or call Zion Church. It is vital that you get plugged into a solid church, a good Bible study, and a circle of Christian friends who will help you and encourage you in your new life in Christ!