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There is no formula for becoming a Christian; it is both a simple and complex thing. Becoming a Christian and having a relationship with God is something that happens in a moment, but takes a lifetime of commitment and sacrifice to begin to understand the depth of God's love.

God's plan of salvation is presented simply and plainly in six verses from Paul's letter to the Romans. Within these verses is a complete synopsis of why we need a Savior, and how Jesus saves His people.

Salvation should not be diluted to simple steps, but in these verses, the mystery of salvation is made clear through scripture.

"For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23
This verse is the simple admission to ourselves before God that we are not capable of obtaining righteousness sufficient to get to Heaven by our works (being good). Instead, we are all sinners not worthy of God's glory.

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23
Having established that we are all sinners and are incapable of not sinning, the first part of this verse plainly states that, because we are sinners, the penalty of that sin is death (and an eternity in hell). Since we cannot work off the penalty of sin, the second part of this verse tells us that God has mercifully not left us in our depraved state, he offers us a gift of life rather than the death we deserve.

"But God demonstrates His own love towards us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
This verse explains why God offers life, because He loves us. It also explains the miracle of the Gospel, that he loves us exactly how we are, as sinners. It also tells us how God offers us eternal life, through Christ's death that paid for our sins.

"If you confess with your mouth to 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 to righteousness and with the mouth confession is made to salvation." Romans 10:9-10
With an understanding of God's offer of life, this verse explains how to accept God, by believing in our hearts that Christ can pay the entire price for our sins, past present and future, and professing your faith.

"For whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:13
Simply put, this is a promise that anyone who puts their faith in Christ and believes in their heart that He paid for their sin and responds to His offer of salvation will be saved for eternity. It is God's covenant and guarantee to His people.

Learn more about this author, A. South.
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