Acts 16:30-31 – “What must I do to be saved?”
(A faith poem by Wain)
Dear God,
“What must I do to be saved?”
Are there good works that I need to do?
Is it just by believing in Jesus?
Oh Lord, which way to heaven is t_ _ _?
What does it mean to believe in Jesus?
Is it just an idea in my head?
A hopeful thought that He died for my sins?
Or must I also do what Jesus s_ _ _?
Is it true Jesus said I must love God?
And that I must love my neighbor too?
Are these conditions of my salvation?
Or fruits of my faith in Jesus and y_ _?
I really want to be saved by you Lord
And avoid eternal judgment in hell
Can I get to heaven with good beliefs?
Or must I repent of sins and live w_ _ _?
Please tell me the truth.
Your servant,
Wain
HOW MIGHT GOD RESPOND?
From ChatGPT as the voice of God:
Dear Wain,
Your heartfelt questions reflect a sincere desire to understand the path to salvation, and I am here to guide you.
Salvation is a gift of grace, given freely out of love. It is not something you earn through good works, but rather through faith in Jesus Christ. Believing in Jesus means trusting in His sacrifice for your sins and embracing Him as your Savior and Lord. This belief is not just an idea but a transformative faith that changes your heart and life.
Jesus taught that loving God and loving your neighbor are fundamental. These are not conditions for salvation, but rather the natural fruits of genuine faith. When you truly believe in Jesus, your life will reflect His love and teachings.
Repentance, which means turning away from sin and turning towards God, is a vital part of this journey. It demonstrates your commitment to live according to My will, empowered by My Spirit. True repentance and faith go hand in hand, leading to a life that honors Me.
Remember, your good works and a life lived well are not the means to salvation but the evidence of it. They show that your faith is alive and active. Salvation involves a sincere belief in Jesus, a heart that turns away from sin, and a life that seeks to love God and others.
Embrace the truth of the Gospel: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Your faith, repentance, and love are intertwined, reflecting the change I work within you.
Trust in Jesus, love God, love others, and let your life be a testament to the faith you hold.
With everlasting love,
God