In these verses, we find three vital elements of the Gospel:
Repentance
Remission of Sins
Regeneration of Life (Resurrection Life)
1. Repentance
Repentance means “to change your mind and turn to God.” Instead of running
from Him, turn to Him based on what He has done for you in Christ.
Paul described this as “repentance from dead works, and faith toward God”
(Hebrews 6:1). In other words, stop relying on your own efforts and good
works for salvation. It is impossible (Ephesians 2:8-9). Instead, embrace
the Gospel and the sacrifice of Christ on your behalf (Acts 20:21).
2. Remission of Sins
Remission of sins means that your sins have been completely removed by the
blood of Christ. This was the purpose of His coming and the accomplishment
of His work on the cross when He declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30).
God always desired a salvation that was based on:
The full payment of the penalty for sins.
The complete removal of the sins of humanity.
Jesus, as our substitute and the perfect sacrifice, gave Himself as our
ransom, what was given in exchange for our redemption. He became:
1. The Scapegoat (John 1:29; Leviticus 16:21).
2. The Propitiation (1 John 2:2), the atonement, the appeasement, the sin offering (Hebrews 13:10-13).
Here are some references to help you understand this:
1 John 3:5; John 1:29; 1 John 2:2; Hebrews 10:17-18.
Because there is remission of sins, no other sacrifice for sins is
necessary. All that is required now is to thankfully embrace the benefits
of what Jesus has done for you.
3. Regeneration of Life
The regeneration of life is based on the resurrection of Christ, which is
God’s proof that Christ successfully secured freedom from sins and their
consequences, including the condemnation of spiritual death (1 Corinthians
15:14, 17, 20).
Jesus “was delivered for our offences and was raised again for our
justification” (Romans 4:25). Those who believe are brought into
justification of life, while those who refuse remain under God’s wrath and
condemnation (John 3:36).
Now that you understand these vital elements, respond in faith without
further delay by saying the prayer of salvation aloud. The Lord will hear
you.
Prayer of Salvation
Dear God in Heaven, I turn to You in true repentance and acceptance of the
Gospel. I believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and believing, I
receive eternal life through His name (John 20:30).
Thank You for the remission of my sins through His blood and my justification
for life by His resurrection.
I joyfully declare that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this very
day.
Thank You, Father, for making me Your child; I’m saved; I’m born again!
Amen!