Jesus Died On The Cross
The religious leaders knew Jesus was making statements that only God could make, and accused Him of blasphemy against God (John 10:33). In a mock trial they convicted Him, and turned Him over to the Romans to have Him executed. Jesus then was beaten mercilessly, nailed to a cross between two thieves, and buried in a heavily guarded tomb. All hope seemed lost.
Jesus Conquered Death!
But, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day…just as He had promised! (Matthew 16:21). Historical records from eyewitnesses testify that Jesus Christ was then seen alive by over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). He is alive today!
To check over the historical evidence, read Evidence That Demands A Verdict by Josh McDowell, or, The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel. Or check out www.Y-Jesus.com.
- Buddha is dead.
- Mohammed is dead.
- Confucius is dead.
- JESUS CHRIST IS ALIVE!
Jesus’ disciples fled in fear when He went through the torture of the cross, but they became men of great courage when they saw Him alive after three days! They lost all fear—even when, later, they too were tortured to death for their faith. Wow! Isn’t that incredible? Jesus Christ is alive today! The Bible calls Jesus the “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:11-16). And, it states that Jesus Christ will return to the earth in power and great glory! (Zechariah 14:4; Luke 21:27).
This illustration shows how the cross of Christ becomes your “bridge” to God. (Heb. 4:14-16)
“There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them” (Acts 4:12).
Jesus told his disciples:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
God’s Free Gift
The truth is that Jesus Christ paid for all your sins on the cross…and has given you direct access to God. God’s perfect justice is totally satisfied by the blood of Jesus. He “bought” you, and there are no “returns”! (Hebrews 7:25; 9:12).
But, you may be wondering, “What about all the good things I’ve done in my life?”
Check out the following verses. What do they tell us about who is responsible for your salvation?
Eternal life is a gift from God. You cannot do anything to earn it! However, like any gift, you can choose to accept or reject it. It’s your free choice!
How to Join God’s Family
Q If you had been one of the victims at the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001, what would you have said to God if He had asked you, “Why should I let you into my heaven?”
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
Q According to 1 John 5:11-13, and John 3:15-18, what is the one requirement of having eternal life in heaven?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
In the original Greek language, the word “believe” means to: TRUST IN – CLING TO – RELY UPON.
In other words, “believe” in the original Greek language is an active faith…much like the faith rock climbers have in the rope to hold them secure. Becoming a Christian is putting your faith in Jesus’ death for you on the cross, and in his resurrection for your eternal life.