What must I do to be saved? (2)

Acts 16:30-31 (KJV) And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

What must I do to be saved?

 When a person asked this question, what must I do to be saved? We, as followers of Jesus Christ, must be ready to point them to the word of God. We must be able to give them biblical guidelines to salvation.

Paul and Silas was place in jail. And the reason the Bible tell us is that every time that they were on their way to pray. This fortuneteller. She would following Paul and Silas saying, “these men are servant of the most high God,” which shew unto us the way of salvation.

It’s the same way with us today we may be getting ready for our time with God. Or on our way to church the devil is watching you. And he is looking forward to calling you out. Because you’re an active child of God. Now if you are just one of those that Christian that come to church every now and then. The Devil is not worried about you. But if you’re like Paul and Sailas. The devil has his eye on you.

Paul had enough of this woman. So he called the spirit out of the woman in the name of Jesus. This woman master got mad because he saw that he could not make money because the spirit was gone from her. He took them to the rulers. Saying these men are teaching customs that is unlawful for us to received or observed.

 It’s the same way in the church today people show up to church Sunday after Sunday. And the word of God is not their custom. And biblical teaching is not for them to received. They hear the word, but their heart is not been change.

Paul and Sailas was place in jail for teaching Jesus Christ.

The Bible tell us that at midnight Paul and Sailas start praising God in their suffering. They saw that it was a honor to suffer for the Kingdom of God. As they were praising God the Holy Spirit came into the prison and cause a earthquake. And everyone was freed, But no one escape. The jailer awakening and was going to kill himself. But Paul told him everyone was still here. He ask for a light so he could see.

This jailer was keeping watch over Paul and Sailas, and he ask them the question. what must he do to be save?

 The prisoners heard church service going on in that cell that night. The keeper of the prison was sleeping and was awake by the earthquake. He was ‘not a follower of Jesus Christ at first. He knew that Paul and Silas was preachers. But at midnight he heard no church service going on in that jail cell.

Where two or three gather I’m in the mist. The Holy Spirit came into that cell and shook everything up. The keeper went from giving orders to saying (sir) falling down before them. It was a sign of respect. Asking What must I do to be saved.

 If a person were to walk through the doors of the church today and asked the question. What must I do to be saved? Will they received the correct answer?

Those of us that has been walking with Jesus. Must be ready to give answers to how we receive our salvation. You as a follower of Christ you should be ready to give your testimony. Of how Christ made a change in your life.

Now at some churches one of those deacons who didn’t know what he is talking about would say, 'Now you have to stop doing this and that. He come up with a list of things that he and the good -old- boys think that a person must stop doing before giving their life to Jesus Christ.

 The deacon did not really answer the question positively. He is trying to make a person look a certain way. And live a certain style of life, but that is not getting them saved.

  You shape up after you get saved. Sirs, what must I do to be saved? WAS THE QUESTION THAT I asked.

They did not say, What must I stop doing? Most of the time the same deacons are not living as they should. The only reason they are deacons is because they are a man, and the same deacons has a wife and a girlfriend, and he is cheating on both of them with sister so and so.

  If we could ever get the positive side of salvation right. We wouldn’t have to worry so much about the negative. When the love of God is shed abroad in their hearts by the Holy Ghost. Then a change begins to happen in their lives. Those things that they used to do they do not enjoy doing anymore. The Spirit of God within them constrains them. And the Holy Spirit teaches what you should and should not do. This is only achieved By reading our Bible daily building a relationship with Jesus Christ. Then we began to see what changes we needed to make in our lives.

 When someone asks this question the first thing a person starts to say is you must stop sinning, you have to stop doing this and that. They come up with a list of things they feel is wrong in your walk. You need to stop drinking, you need to stop cheating on your spouse, you shouldn’t be getting high. You need to stop Having sex unmarried it is wrong. YOU have to stop them and say that’s not what I ask, I know how to stop sinning, I have been doing it long enough. The question was not how do I stop sinning, but how do I get saved? What must I do to receive eternal life? People already know that they are not living right. There is no need to beat them over the head with our ideal of salvation. Tell them what the Bible say! And let the Holy Spirit do his job. You know what you did and who you did it with, I was not there

Acts 16:31 (KJV) And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

  If our family sees a change in our lives, it can bring a change in their lives as well. When our family sees that we believe and trust Jesus Christ as head of our life they begin to believe and trust him for themselves.

The Bible tells us that if we confess with our mouth and believe in our hearts that Jesus is Lord thy shall be saved. But we add our view to the way to receive salvation. When the Bible makes it clear, That we must be born again. Now It’s different if you’re in the church and calling yourself a Christian. If it can’t be seen in your walk. We need to have a little with Jesus talk. Our assignment is to show and teach JESUS, only. We have to explain how Jesus took care of all sin on the cross. When we show love and not conviction, they will soon begin to make a change in their lives. The more time we spend with Jesus the more we begin to look like him. The more we teach Jesus Christ and his death and raised the more we will see a change in others. We add our view into salvation when the Bible plainly tell us that the only way a person can receive salvation is by accepting Jesus Christ as the Lord of your life. Putting their trust in Jesus Christ along.

 Romans 10:9-13 (KJV) That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

If thou confess with our mouth. And believe in in your heart that Jesus has raised from the dead thou shall be save. Nowhere does it say that we have to Stop sinning first then come to the Lord In order to receive salvation. That would be by our works and not the finish work on the cross, Of Jesus Christ. Then we can get the big head and say we did it and not Jesus Christ. Romans 10:10-11 (KJV) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. It’s not by what we do it is about our relationship that we have with Jesus Christ.

Acts 4:12 (KJV) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

It’s not in the preacher or the church you attend. When we meet someone that is looking for salvation it’s necessary that we invited them to Jesus and not just to the church that we attend. Going to church will not save them. It is Jesus Christ and our relationship with him that bring salvation.

John 10:1-18 (KJV) Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth, and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

Jesus call them each by their own name and they follow Jesus. Jesus prayed that the will of God to be done in there live, not his will but the will of the Father. those that are true followers of Jesus know that when trouble come in our lives Jesus has already fix it. We just have to trust that Jesus can do anything but lie. When trouble comes Jesus is just increasing our faith in him. There are places in our lives that we have little faith, and we need another touch from JESUS. Someone’s ease faith will not help you. You have to trust Jesus of myself.

 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not  

There is a lot of false preachers and teachers of the word of God. And the Bible tells us many more shall come and deceive the world to think that the false god is the real God. You must know what the word of God say for yourself. In order for you know the voice of the Good Shepherd. To know Jesus is to love him. We as children of God we have to put on the hole armer of God, this is done by reading and studying the word of God daily. We are building the tools that we need every time the enemy send something our way. The Word of God is the only weapon that can defeat the word system. The WORD OF God This is sharpen than any two-edge sward piercing the joint and mare. When the devil tried to tempt Jesus. JESUS used only the Word of God he added nothing. (It is written, are the words Jesus use on the devil)

 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. Jesus is telling everyone that once you become one of his you can live in this word free from worry. I got you covered. Because I took care of everything on the cross. I became the door to the Kingdom of God and if you want to live under my Holy Covering, where we know that if we ask anything that is in the will of God, he hear us. God want his children to enjoy earth as we are on the Earth. There is nothing wrong with having fun. Jesus said I come that you may have life and have it more abundantly.

 But we have this thief, and he has a job.

 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: the Kingdom of God. When he come, he mix the truth with a lot of lies. The devil want to take as many as he can to Hell with him.

There is a Good Shepherd, and his job is to follow the will of the Father. The Good Shepherd teaches the sheep’s how to be shepherd. And the shepherd teaches others. Building a Godly Kingdom on the Earth where we see nothing but LOVE. When we put our trust in Jesus and Jesus along that’s when we begin to see growth in our lives.

 I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. This more abundantly has a two-fold to is because of us accepting Jesus as Lord we enter into a future and eternal of abundantly of Glory and Grace. Enjoy life as you live on the earth, but it does not compare to the one that you will have at Jesus return.

 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.

It was all about money, prestige, self-control, with the hireling they were never in it for Kingdom purpose. It was all about what kind of name they could make for themself. They will leave the sheeps along looking for safety in a Shepherd. In the wilderness wondering.

 But Jesus the good shepherd wants to see God’s Kingdom come in the earth. He is looking for us to walk in the same faith as the father of faith Abraham. Whom is the father of all that are walking in the faith of the Finnish work of Jesus Christ. As Christian at time we do not walk worthy of the Call that is on us. We came up with a plan of our own. God had a plan for you before you were born. It is to walking worthy of the called that Jesus has for you. Because of the love that Jesus has for you.

 Jesus said I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep’s, and am known of mine. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one-fold, and one shepherd. Therefore, doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

Jesus let us know that he will never leave us and those men and women who he has truly called those of us who want to see a change in people. Seen people being saved will not run away from hard times we stand on the Word of GOD.

At One time Jesus was ask Good Master what good things shall I do, that I may have eternal life? The Bible let us know that when the man asked Jesus, he was trying to tempt Jesus. It all about our trust in Jesus Christ. We can do nothing to keep our soul from going to hell. It is what Jesus done on the cross, that keep your soul from Hell. it comes by hearing the word of God that lead us to salvation. But it is a choice that we make, now if God has called you and your running, he may allow you to run until you get tired of yourself.

1 Corinthians 5:5 (KJV) To deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. When we read this in the Bible, they are talking about putting one out of the Kingdom of God and allowing Satan have his way with them. Leading them to the kingdom of this world where Satan control. The choice is yours; the question was what must I do to be save? RIGHT? We must put on the new man or woman which is renewed in the knowledge after the image of him that created him. Colossians 3:11-17 (KJV) Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

It’s not hard living a saved life because when your following the Holy Spirit, he make your path smooth. You live a life of no weapon form against you will take over you. If Jesus tell you to get in the boat and he will meet you on the other side. Bring a bottle of hot sauce because Jesus will be cooking fish for dinner. You can speak to the storms that come in your life. Telling the storms who your God is and what he has already done in your life. Speak the word of God to any problem that may arise in your life, and it has to bow down to the word of God.

 Jesus will not let you get away. But If you want to go out on your own, He will allow the enemy have his way with you to get to the point that you say help me, Lord. I can’t do this on my own. And then you return to him. Because once the Holy Spirit comes and lives in you. Your seal until the day of redemption. To be saved and knowing your save is a blessing. Your table is prepared before your enemy.

There’s no where you can go where God will not come and get you.

Jeremiah 23:23-24 (KJV) AmI a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.

God is saying I care about earth and heaven I’m a universal God I see the good and bad. I love and care for you. And you ask what must I do to be saved? I’m a God of salvation desiring that all humankind repent and be saved.

 Psalm 139:7-10 (KJV) Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, anddwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. God, and Jesus love you and me. So much that Jesus gave his life so that we can have salvation.

 What must I do to be save? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved. It’s not hard because Jesus Christ became a man, and he paid the penalty for our sins. On the cross, now all you have to do is repent and confess that Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and allow Jesus to have control over your life.

Jeremiah 18:2 (KJV) Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words.

If there is someone here who has not given their life to Christ now is a good time. There is room at the cross of Jesus just for you, just come on down. Jesus is the door will there be one. Don’t worry about what anyone else think; this is your time with Jesus Christ. His blood washes away your sins, and he is waiting to give you a new life. Why don’t you come while you can. No-one know the day or the hour of Jesus return.

LET THE WORDS OF OUR MOUTHS, AND THE MEDITATION OF OUR HEARTS, BE ACCEPTABLE IN THY SIGHT, O LORD, OUR STRENGHT, AND OUR REDEEMER AMEN.

The Path to Salvation: What Must I Do to Be Saved?

Summary: This sermon explores the fundamental question of salvation and the necessary steps one must take to enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Application: This sermon aims to help individuals understand the simplicity and depth of salvation, guiding them to examine their own hearts and the actions required for genuine faith.

Teaching: The teaching of this sermon emphasizes that salvation is not through works alone, but through faith in Jesus Christ, leading to repentance and a transformative relationship with God.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout Scripture, Jesus is presented as the way to salvation. From the Old Testament prophecies of a Messiah to His redemptive work on the cross, Jesus fulfills the promise of salvation for all who believe.

Big Idea: The necessity of faith and repentance in the process of receiving salvation through Jesus Christ—it's not about what we do, but who we trust.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider delving into the various New Testament passages that discuss salvation (like Romans 10:9-10 and Ephesians 2:8-9) using the Logos library. You may want to explore different theological perspectives on faith and works through commentaries to strengthen your understanding. Additionally, look into the historical context of the early church's understanding of salvation for a comprehensive backdrop in your sermon.

1. Confessing Christ as Lord

Romans 10:9-10

Perhaps you could illustrate the importance of confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in one's heart as pivotal actions that express inward faith. This confession is not just verbal but a declaration of faith that transforms lives. Emphasize that salvation is accessible to everyone who truly believes, not based on merit but on faith in Christ. This passage underscores the essence of trusting in Jesus as the foundation of our salvation journey.

2. Grace: The Gift of Salvation

Ephesians 2:8-9

You could suggest that salvation is a gift from God, emphasizing its nature as a grace-based act, rather than a result of individual efforts. This point illustrates that it is faith, not works, that results in salvation, highlighting the humility needed to receive this gift. Emphasize the freeing aspect of this grace and encourage congregants to rest in the finished work of Christ for their salvation, fostering a life of gratitude and obedience.

3. Repentance: Turning to God

Acts 2:37-38

Maybe focus on the response Peter calls for—repentance and baptism—as a demonstration of accepting salvation through faith. This point stresses the need for a heart-turning away from sin toward God. Explain how repentance is a natural outcome of genuine faith and how baptism symbolizes a public affirmation of this new life in Christ. Aim to inspire bold steps of faith among believers, encouraging them to live out their salvation visibly and sincerely.