- Galatians 1:11-17 - But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.
- Romans 12:2 - And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
- John 3:3 - Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
- 1 Thessalonians 1:9 - For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;
- John 1:12 - But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Do you understand what it means to be saved? True faith must bring about a change in a person's thinking and lifestyle. After encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, the Apostle Paul withdrew to Arabia for a time. Before starting his ministry, he had to learn from the Lord. Similarly, those who have newly believed in Christ must correctly understand what salvation means. Let us look at some concepts that explain "salvation": Being born again: This is a new beginning. The believer becomes a new creation in Christ, possessing a new spiritual life and a new identity. Conversion: Conversion means to change. Just as currency is exchanged for another, a person's life begins to change under the influence of God. Accepting Christ: Salvation is not just a gift received from God. Salvation occurs when a person believes in Jesus Christ and accepts Him into their life. Salvation is not earned by a person's good deeds, efforts, or consistent performance. Eternal life is given only through faith in Jesus Christ, by the grace of God. After this, God wants to grow the believer spiritually, making them like Christ.
Reflection
How were you living before you knew Jesus Christ? What changes do you see in your life now?
