Today's Scripture
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (ESV)
Find Hope in Jesus Christ
God raised Jesus from the dead. There is hope for all who follow him.
What is salvation?
Salvation is the gift of forgiveness and new life that God offers to everyone through Jesus Christ. It cannot be earned — it is received by faith.
Key Scriptures
John 3:16 (ESV)
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (ESV)
ESV®
Romans 3:23 (ESV)
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (ESV)
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Romans 6:23 (ESV)
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (ESV)
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Romans 10:9 (ESV)
because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (ESV)
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Romans 5:8 (ESV)
but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (ESV)
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How to receive salvation
1
Acknowledge
Admit that you have sinned and need God's forgiveness.
2
Believe
Believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose from the dead.
3
Confess
Confess Jesus as Lord of your life.
Pray this prayer
If you are ready to receive Christ, you may pray in your own words or use this example:
Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness of all my sins. I believe you died for my sins and rose from the dead. Right now, I turn from my sins and invite you into my heart and life. Please forgive me, cleanse me, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I want to trust and follow you as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, Amen.
What happens next?
If you prayed that prayer — welcome to God's family! Here are your next steps:
1
Tell someone
We would be honored to welcome you at Lake Shore Church in Chicago's West Loop and help you grow in faith.
2
Read the Bible
Start with the Gospel of John to learn about Jesus. You can read or listen online.
3
Pray daily
Prayer is simply talking to God. Continue sharing your heart with him daily.
4
Believer's baptism & the Holy Spirit
Follow Jesus in water baptism. If you want to go further in your faith and receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit, read the section below or speak with Pastor Brian.
The baptism in the Holy Spirit
After you put your faith in Jesus, you can receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit — a distinct gift for every believer that empowers you to serve Christ. Ask in faith, surrender fully to God, and receive by faith.
- Ask the Father in faith — "If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" (Luke 11:13 ESV)
- Surrender fully to Jesus as Lord of every area of life.
- Receive by faith — the same Spirit who filled believers at Pentecost (Acts 2:4) is available today.
Scriptures
- But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you… (Acts 1:8 ESV)
- While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. (Acts 10:44 ESV)
- And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high. (Luke 24:49 ESV)
Speak with Pastor Brian
Interested in the baptism in the Holy Spirit or have questions about your new life in Christ? Pastor Brian would love to walk with you.
Join us this Sunday
Begins at 10:00 a.m. · Merit School of Music · West Loop, Chicago