The Way to the Father

Legacy begins with belonging to Christ. Christianity is not an invitation to improve ourselves enough to reach God. Every one of us has sinned, and we cannot repair our separation from God through effort, good intentions, religion, or comparison.

God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus lived a blameless life. He died on the cross for our sins, standing in the gap we could not cross, and He rose again. Jesus is not one path among many. He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
Romans 3:23 KJV

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8 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.”
Romans 10:9 KJV

Salvation is God’s gift of grace received through faith in Jesus Christ. Prayer does not earn salvation, and there are no perfect words that make it happen. Prayer is a conversation. It is a way to respond honestly by acknowledging sin, confessing Christ, accepting Him as Savior, and receiving what He has done.

A Prayer of Response

Father, I acknowledge that I have sinned and cannot make my own way back to You. I believe Jesus Christ is Your only Son. I believe He lived without sin, died on the cross for my sins, and rose again. I believe Jesus stood in the gap and is the only way to You. I confess Jesus as Lord, accept Him as my Savior, and receive the salvation You offer by grace. Please forgive me, come into my life, and teach me to follow, serve, and love You. Thank You for what Christ has done. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What Happens Next

If this prayer expressed what you believe and you received Christ, tell a trusted retreat leader or mature Christian before you leave. You do not have to prove what happened through a public display. You also do not have to walk away alone or uncertain. The church can celebrate with you, answer questions, help you begin reading Scripture and praying, explain baptism, and walk with you as you grow.

What do I understand about who Jesus is and what He has done?

Who will I tell, and who can walk with me as I begin or continue following Christ?