Saturday, July 31, 2021

" A B C - IT'S SIMPLE TO BE SAVED "

 


Salvation is simple, but it is not cheap.

It cost JESUS CHRIST everything so that salvation could be offered to us freely. GOD has provided salvation on a basis which makes it available to anyone who wants it. If salvation could be received on the basis of education, multitudes would be excluded. If eternal life could be had on the basis of wealth, a great number would still be left out. If being saved were dependent upon a person's moral perfection, everyone would fall short. GOD has made HIS salvation available on the basis of a personal faith which even a child can exercise. This way, everyone is viewed on the same level in the eyes of GOD. All must come to HIM on the same terms (Romans 3:9-10). Paul said, "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:" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

How simple is it to be saved ?

1. It is as simple as entering a door. "I AM the door: by ME if any man enter in, he shall be saved. . ." (John 10:9a).

2. It is as simple as calling for help. "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved:" (Romans 10:13).

3. It is as simple as coming when called. "Come unto ME, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest:" (Matthew 11:28).

4. It is as simple as receiving a gift. "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." (Romans 6:23).

5. It is as simple as drinking water. JESUS said, "But whosoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14).

6. It is as simple as eating bread. JESUS said, "For the bread of GOD is HE which comes down from Heaven, and gives life unto the world. . .I AM the living bread which came down from Heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever:" (John 6:33,51).

7. It is as simple as believing GOD. "Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believes on ME has everlasting life:" (John 6:47). "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved,. . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4).

Many people stumble at the simplicity of salvation. They often feel that they must do something to earn or deserve such a wonderful offer. Yes, something had to be done so that salvation could be offered to us freely, but JESUS did it all. All you must do is believe that JESUS CHRIST died for your sins and rose again. You then must receive HIM into your heart.

Why not make that all-important decision which will transform your life and bring you into a right relationship with GOD ? It is simple, and it works.

It's simply up to you !

Are you willing to settle the matter of your eternal destiny ? Will you do it ? You can, right this moment. GOD says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9-10,13).

If you will accept JESUS CHRIST as your LORD and SAVIOR, please pray this simple prayer or one like it with all your heart:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

NEW  LIFE
Everlasting life begins when we receive CHRIST as our SAVIOR. The LORD JESUS said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie



Friday, July 30, 2021

" PARDON ME . . . . "

 


. . . . . . . Since I may never see you in person, would you read this friendly message ?

     Our meeting today is not altogether by chance. Although we have not had time to become well acquainted, may I share with you something most wonderful.

     Some time ago I met a remarkable PERSON, so great and outstanding, that it has become a joy to introduce HIM to others. The great tragedy is that so many know about HIM, but so very few know HIM personally. Perhaps you have already guessed that I am speaking of JESUS CHRIST.

     To some HE is little more than a swear word, and to others a source of embarrassment, but to those who know HIM, HE is wonderful !

     You recall that the Apostle Paul persecuted the early Christians, but after he met JESUS, his life was transformed. He wrote, "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief." (1st.Timothy 1:15).

     It hurts our pride to admit that we are sinners, but it is wonderful when we experience the power of JESUS CHRIST to forgive our sins and heal our hearts. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD." (Romans 3:23).

     When once we accept HIM as our SAVIOR, we make an amazing discovery. JESUS did not come to make us stuffy saints or miserable mortals, but HE came to give us LIFE - the very fullest and richest. Listen to JESUS' own words:  "I AM come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10).

     Dear Reader, whatever may have been your disappointment with people, disillusionment with life, and confusion with religion, let me assure you that this is not the fault of JESUS CHRIST. HE has been misrepresented, betrayed, denied, and neglected, but HE stands majestically, in love pleading with everyone of earth's billions, "Come unto ME, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28).

     HE speaks to you today. Do you personally know HIM ? Repent (turning to GOD from your sin) of your sins; believe that JESUS died on the cross to pay for your sins in full, and make HIM the LORD of your life. "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved,. . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4).

     Read the following Scriptures carefully. Then believe it and act upon it: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9-10,13). You can pray this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

     If you want to know more of this wonderful SAVIOR, get a copy of the Gospel of John and read it. Talk to a committed Christian; go to a Bible believing, Bible preaching church where the Good News of salvation is clearly explained.

     All things are planned by GOD -- also your receiving this message. Do not harden yourself against HIS call. Pray that the HOLY SPIRIT will open your mind and heart to let JESUS in. It will be going from death unto life eternal.  JESUS said,  "He that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie



Tuesday, July 27, 2021

" Looking Unto JESUS "

 


The next great event on GOD's calendar of events is the coming of the LORD JESUS for HIS own.

The LORD JESUS said, ". . . I go and prepare a place for you. . ."

HE also said, ". . .I will come again, and receive you unto MYSELF; that where I AM, there ye may be also" (John 14:3).

HIS coming is closer today than it has ever been. HE is coming for those who have put their trust in HIM.

Dear Friend, have you put your trust in HIM ?

Will HE come for you or will you be left behind ?

You may ask, "What does it mean to put your trust in HIM ?"

FIRST, trust GOD when HE says that every person is a sinner.  

Romans 3:10 reads: ". . .There is none righteous, no, not one."

And again in Romans 3:23, the Bible says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD."

Our sins have separated us from GOD. Before a person can know that he has eternal life and that he will go to Heaven, he must first know and believe that he is a sinner.

SECOND, trust GOD when HE says that sin must be paid for.

Romans 6:23 reads: "For the wages of sin is death. . ."

According to GOD's WORD, we are all sinners, and our sin must be paid for. If we fail to trust GOD in this life, we will die without CHRIST and spend eternity separated from GOD.

THIRD, trust GOD when HE says that CHRIST died for our sins.

Romans 5:8 reads: "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us."

The best news that anyone could ever tell you is that JESUS died for your sins. All our sins were laid on HIM. HE paid our sin debt in full.

FOURTH, trust GOD when HE says we must pray and receive CHRIST as our personal SAVIOR.

Romans 10:13 reads: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved.

A person can believe that GOD loves him. He can believe that he is a sinner and that sin must be paid for. But if he is not willing to trust GOD by receiving the LORD JESUS as his personal SAVIOR, he will die without CHRIST. 

Let us review for a moment.

1.  Do you realize that GOD loves you ? (John 3:16)

2.  Do you believe that all men are sinners ? (Romans 3:23)

3.  Do you agree with the Bible that sin must be paid for ? (Romans 6:23)

4.  Do you believe that CHRIST died for you ? (Romans 5:8)

5.  Do you see that you must pray and receive CHRIST as your personal SAVIOR ? (Romans 10:13)

The Bible says that "the goodness of GOD leadeth thee to repentance (turning to GOD from your sin)" (Romans 2:4). If you would be willing to turn to GOD in repentance and faith, and receive CHRIST as your personal SAVIOR, pray this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS name I pray, AMEN.

NEW LIFE
Everlasting life begins when we receive CHRIST as our SAVIOR. The LORD JESUS said, "He that believeth on ME hath everlasting life" (John 6:47).

". . .Unto them that look for HIM shall HE appear the second time. . ." (Hebrews 9:28)   KEEP  LOOKING  UP  !
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
GULF COAST BAPTIST CHURCH
Pastor Tom Sexton
312 SE 24th. Avenue, Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 574-1000
www.GulfCoastBaptistChurch.com



Saturday, July 24, 2021

" WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO SPEND ETERNITY ? "

 


Dear Soul, if you were to die right now, do you know whether you would go to Heaven or to a Devil's Hell for all eternity ? The Bible, the WORD of GOD, says that you can know.

My Friend, I am asking you the most important question of your entire life. Your answer will determine where you will spend eternity ! The question is: Are YOU Saved ? The question is not if you are a member of a church, but are you saved ? It is not if you are leading a good life, but are you saved ? It is not if you are water baptized, but are you saved ? It is not if you are working on it or hoping to be, but are you saved ? The Bible says: ". . .we must be saved." (Acts 4:12).

To be saved, you first must admit that you are lost, a sinner. "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:. . .there is none that does good, no, not one." (Romans 3:10,12). "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23). Friend, your sins have made you fall short of GOD's glory, and you are unable to meet HIS requirements for getting into Heaven.

Secondly, you need to realize that someone loved you and died for you. JESUS CHRIST died on a cross to pay for your sins and to give you an opportunity to go to Heaven. "But GOD commended HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8). When JESUS died on the cross, HIS blood paid the penalty of your sins in full. "In WHOM we have redemption through HIS blood, even the forgiveness of sins:" (Colossians 1:14). "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . . . For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4).

Please realize that you cannot do anything to earn or help earn your way to Heaven. JESUS already completely paid for it when HE died on the cross. Just before HE died HE said, ". . . It is finished:" (John 19:30). HE now wants to give you a home in Heaven. ". . .the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." (Romans 6:23).

You must realize that when JESUS saves you, it is forever. JESUS did not stay dead. HE arose from the grave and is now alive in Heaven interceding for those who have trusted in HIM. "Wherefore HE is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by HIM, seeing HE ever lives to make intercession for them." (Hebrews 7:25).

By faith, receive JESUS CHRIST. JESUS died to give the gift of eternal life to everyone. However, like all other gifts, this one is of no value UNLESS you receive it for yourself personally. "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:" (John 1:12). Faith is a complete trust in something or someone; in this case it is in JESUS CHRIST.

The Bible says you are "saved through faith" without needing to add anything else. "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." (Ephesians 2:8-9). The only faith that saves is complete faith in JESUS CHRIST alone. A jailer came to the Apostle Paul and Silas and asked, ". . .Sirs, what must I do to be saved ? And they said, Believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and thou shalt be saved. . ." (Acts 16:30b-31). Anything that you try to add to faith is a "work."  "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the Law (works)." (Romans 3:28).

Dear Soul, if you're willing to stop trying to get to Heaven your way, and completely trust JESUS CHRIST, then you can be saved right now ! It's now up to you ! Just bow your head and pray to GOD this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

The Bible says, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness: and with the mouth confession is made unto Salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9-10,13).

If you have chosen NOT to admit your guilt and to trust JESUS CHRIST as your personal SAVIOR, please read what the Bible says, ". . .he that believes not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD." (John 3:18).  PLEASE don't reject the Gospel ! Trust CHRIST today before it is too late !

GOD's promise for you who receive JESUS as your personal SAVIOR is everlasting life:

"For GOD so loved the world,
that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, 
that whosoever believes in HIM
should not perish, but
have everlasting life." (John 3:16).

"Verily, verily, (Truly, truly) I say unto you, He that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24).
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie



" I'M A PRETTY GOOD PERSON ? "


"Surely I will go to Heaven when I die. I would never hurt anybody. I am honest. I love and care for my family."

     It is true; most people believe they are pretty good. However, contrary to popular opinion, not all good people go to Heaven. In fact, you do not have to be a bad person to go to a Devil's Hell. Notice what the Bible says in Titus 3:5: "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to HIS mercy HE saved us. . ." The Bible also states in 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." You can see that even if you are a good person, GOD's WORD declares that your goodness is not sufficient to merit Heaven.

     Another interesting fact found in the Bible is that you are not really as good as you think you are. Ecclesiastes 7:20 states, "For there is not a just man upon Earth, that does good, and sins not. As it is written, There is NONE righteous, no, not one: For ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:10,23).

     It is true that you must have goodness to get to Heaven, but the truth is you do not possess that goodness in and of yourself. "But your iniquities have separated between you and your GOD, and your sins have hid HIS face from you, that HE will not hear." (Isaiah 59:2). "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." (Romans 6:23). You see, everyone deserves to die and go to a Devil's Hell because of their sin; however, JESUS loved us so much that HE shed HIS sinless blood and died in our place. Three days later, CHRIST arose from the grave, proving that HE had conquered death and hell, and establishing that HE alone has the power to give us eternal life. 1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4 tells us, "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" Also in Romans 5:8, the Bible tells us, "But GOD commended HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us."

     Think about this. If your goodness, water baptism, church membership, liturgical prayers, or anything that man can do, could save you, JESUS would have died in vain. The fact is no one can possibly get to Heaven on their own. JESUS HIMSELF stated in John 14:6, "I AM the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE: no man comes unto the FATHER; but by ME."

     Perhaps by now you are wondering how you can obtain JESUS CHRIST's goodness for yourself. It is really very simple. First, you must repent (an act of turning to GOD from your sin). Luke 13:3 states, ". . .except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." True repentance produces a new way of living. "I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto THY (GOD's) testimonies (WORD)." Psalm 119:59

     Secondly, you must believe that JESUS died and was raised again on the third day for you. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD has raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:9-10).

     Finally, ask HIM to save you and take you to Heaven when you die. "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:13). Please call on HIM today. You have no guarantee of any more time than the moment you are now in. What a tragedy it would be for a good person like you to die and go to a Devil's Hell. Why not ask HIM to save you right now ? You can pray from your heart this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

GOD's promise for you is everlasting life:

"For GOD so loved the world,
that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, 
that whosoever believes in HIM
should not perish, but
have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie



 

Friday, July 23, 2021

" HEAVEN or HELL, WHICH FOR YOU ? "

 


ARE YOU GOING TO HEAVEN OR HELL ?

Many seemingly good people are going to a Devil's Hell, because "For ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" Romans 3:23

"For there is not a just man upon Earth, that does good, and sins not." Ecclesiastes 7:20

WHAT IS THE PRICE OF SIN ?

". . .the soul that sins, it shall die." Ezekiel 18:4

"For the wages of sin is death, . . ." Romans 6:23a

WHAT IF YOU ARE NOT SAVED WHEN YOU DIE ?

"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" Hebrews 9:27

"And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire." Revelation 20:15

WOULD GOD SAVE A SINNER LIKE YOU ?

"But GOD commended HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." Romans 5:8

JESUS said: ". . .him that comes to ME I will in no wise cast out." John 6:37

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW HOW TO BE SAVED ?

FIRST, you must realize there is nothing you can do to make yourself worthy of Heaven. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to HIS mercy HE saved us. . ." Titus 3:5

THEN YOU MUST . . .

REPENT (turning to GOD from your sin): ". . .GOD. . .now commands all men every where to repent:" Acts 17:30

BELIEVE: The Gospel, "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved. . . For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" 1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4

RECEIVE: "But as many as received HIM (JESUS), to them gave HE power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on HIS name:" John 1:12

IS ALL THIS FREE ?

"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." Ephesians 2:8-9

JESUS CHRIST AWAITS YOUR CHOICE.

The way to be saved is so simple ? Yet many refuse to be saved. They will not accept JESUS CHRIST, and HIM alone, for salvation from sin and its penalty. They do not believe that the LORD JESUS is powerful enough to save them all by HIMSELF. DO YOU ?
"He that believes on the SON has everlasting life: and he that believes not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abides on him." John 3:36
Will you admit you are a sinner ? Do you want to be forgiven and changed ? Right now, will you humble yourself and pray to GOD, asking JESUS CHRIST to save you ? Pray this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

GOD's promise for you is everlasting life: "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
"Wherefore HE is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by HIM, seeing HE ever lives to make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." Romans 10:13
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie



Wednesday, July 21, 2021

" The SHOCKING TRUTH "

 


The shocking truth is that JESUS CHRIST will not save you. That's right ! JESUS CHRIST will not save you, unless you realize the following facts:

1.  You are separated from GOD. "But your iniquities have separated between you and your GOD, and your sins have hid HIS face from you, that HE will not hear." (Isaiah 59:2). "For ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23).

2.  You are condemned by GOD at this moment. ". . .he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD." (John 3:18b). "Now we know that what things soever the law says, it says to them who are under the law (you): that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before GOD." (Romans 3:19).

3.  Your punishment is certain. "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" (Hebrews 9:27). "The wicked shall be turned into Hell. . ." (Psalm 9:17a) ". . .be sure your sin will find you out." (Numbers 32:23). "For the wages of sin is death;" (Romans 6:23a).

HOWEVER . . .

1.  JESUS CHRIST died for you. "But GOD commended (sent forth) HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8). "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16). "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved. . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4).

2.  JESUS CHRIST is the only way. "JESUS said unto him, I AM the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE: no man comes unto the FATHER, but by ME." (John 14:6). "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under Heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12).

3.  JESUS CHRIST saves without your help. "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." (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Now that you have the truth, the decision is yours ! Will you repent (turn to GOD from your sin) ? "The LORD is. . .not willing that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance." (2nd.Peter 3:9). "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out," (Acts 3:19a) Repentance is when a person admits his guilt to GOD, and sincerely desires to turn from his sin.

Will you trust JESUS CHRIST to save you ? Romans 10:13 states, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." JESUS CHRIST did everything that was needed to pay for your sins and take you to Heaven. That is the reason JESUS CHRIST came to Earth, and that is why HE is called the SAVIOR. You cannot help save yourself by water baptism, church attendance or membership, liturgical prayers, sacraments, giving money, or trying to lead a good life. In order to be saved, you must completely trust JESUS CHRIST and HIS power to save you.

     Can you afford to wait ? The Bible says, ". . .BEHOLD, NOW is the accepted time; BEHOLD, NOW is the day of salvation. . ." (2nd.Corinthians 6:2b). "Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou know not what a day may bring forth." (Proverbs 27:1). Dear Soul, the most important decision that you will make in this life will be to trust or to reject JESUS CHRIST as your personal LORD and SAVIOR. Don't take a chance ! Call on GOD now ! You may not be alive tomorrow !

     The Bible says that "the goodness of GOD leads thee to repentance" (Romans 2:4). If you would be willing to turn to GOD in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name, AMEN.

GOD's promise for you is everlasting life, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, has everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24).
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie



Friday, July 16, 2021

" DOES Creation SPEAK ? "

 


This beautiful world speaks to us of a loving GOD WHO cares for HIS creation.

"For by HIM were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth. . .and by HIM all things consist" (Colossians 1:16-17).

What is clearly seen in creation are ". . .HIS eternal power and GODhead. . ." (Romans 1:20). "The heavens declare. . .HIS handiwork" (Psalm 19:1).

Yes, creation does speak. GOD holds the world together, and HIS creation trusts and depends upon HIM.

GOD's greatest creation is man because ". . .GOD created man in HIS OWN image. . ." (Genesis 1:27). And GOD gave man a free will to choose if he will trust his CREATOR.

Dear Friend, have you put your trust in GOD ?

You ask, "What does it mean to trust GOD ?

FIRST, trust GOD when HE says that every person is a sinner.

The Bible tells us in Romans 3:10, ". . .There is none righteous, no, not one."

And again Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD."

Our sins have separated us from GOD. Before you can know that you have eternal life and that you will got to Heaven, you must first know and believe that you are a sinner.

SECOND, trust GOD when HE says that our sin debt must be paid.

Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death. . ."

According to GOD's WORD, we are all sinners, and our sin must be paid for. If we fail to trust GOD in this life, we will die without CHRIST and spend eternity separated from GOD.

THIRD, trust GOD when HE says that CHRIST died for our sins and rose from the dead.

The Bible tells us in Romans 5:8, "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." 1st.Corinthians 15:3-4 also tells us, "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:"

The best news that anyone could ever tell you is that JESUS CHRIST died for your sins. All our sins were laid on HIM. HE paid our sin debt in full.

CHRIST shed HIS blood on Calvary for you, because, ". . .without shedding of blood is no remission" of sin (Hebrews 9:22).

Then HE rose from the dead, and HE said to those who trust HIM, ". . .because I live, ye shall life also" (John 14:19).

FOURTH, trust GOD when HE says we must personally receive CHRIST as our SAVIOR.

Romans 10:13 says, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." That "whosoever" means you. GOD allows you to choose whether or not you will trust HIM.

A person can believe that GOD loves him. He can believe that he is a sinner and that sin must be paid for. BUT if he is not willing to put his faith and trust in CHRIST, he will die lost and be separated from GOD forever.

Let us review for a moment.

Do you realize that GOD loves you ? (John 3:16)

Do you believe that you are a sinner ? (Romans 3:23)

Do you agree with the Bible that your sin debt must be paid ? (Romans 6:23)

Do you believe that CHRIST died for you ? (Romans 5:8)

Do you see that you must call upon the LORD to save you ?     (Romans 10:13)

The Bible says that "the goodness of GOD leadeth thee to repentance" (Romans 2:4). If you would be willing to turn to GOD in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer or one like it:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

GOD's promise for you is everlasting life:

"For GOD so loved the world,
that HE gave HIS only begotten SON,
that whosoever believeth in HIM
should not perish, but
have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Now that you're a Christian:

Share your new-found faith with your family and friends (Acts 16:31-33).

Identify with CHRIST through believer's baptism and become part of a local, Bible-believing church (Acts 2:41,47).

Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie

GULF COAST BAPTIST CHURCH
312 SE 24th. Avenue
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 574-1000
www.GulfCoastBaptistChurch.com
GulfCoastBaptist@aol.com
www.ChristianYouthCommission.com
www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com




Thursday, July 15, 2021

" One Heartbeat Away . . . . From Heaven or Hell "

 


     You may be admired for your talents, abilities, or even for your generosity shown through acts of charity. However, GOD looks in the heart and sees all the things that you do, say, and even think. GOD says, "As it is written, There is NONE righteous, no, not one:" (Romans 3:10). "For ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23). In this condition, everyone is condemned and remains one heartbeat from Heaven or Hell.

     If you are honest with yourself, you realize that one day you will die. "Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that ALL have sinned:" (Romans 5:12). Therefore, right now, you are one heartbeat from Heaven or Hell.

     At your job, you might be paid hourly, weekly, or by salary for the work that you do. GOD says that unless you accept the payment that JESUS CHRIST made when HE died on Calvary, you will be paid wages for your sins. "For the wages of sin is death . . ." (Romans 6:23a). However, JESUS has paid for your sins, if you will accept HIS gift of eternal life. ". . . but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD" (Romans 6:23b). While you decide which payment you will choose, you are only one heartbeat from Heaven or Hell.

     GOD loves you so much that HE gave HIS only begotten SON's life in order for you to be saved. "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . . . For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures: and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1,2a,3-4). It is HIS desire that no one would perish and spend eternity in a Devil's Hell. "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8).

     Do you believe that JESUS is GOD's SON ? Do you believe that HE loved you so much that HE died for you ? Do you believe that GOD raised HIM from the dead, and that JESUS CHRIST is now in Heaven ? If you do, GOD promises that you can be saved right now, this minute. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9). Take GOD at HIS WORD, and trust HIM to save you right now. After all, you are one heartbeat away from Heaven or Hell.

     GOD said that you must accept JESUS CHRIST with a childlike faith and trust. "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto Salvation." (Romans 10:10). You must call on GOD and ask HIM to save you. If you trust HIM to keep HIS WORD, HE has promised that HE will save you. "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:13).

     If you will accept JESUS CHRIST as your LORD and SAVIOR, please pray this simple prayer, or one like it, with all your heart:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

     If you have accepted CHRIST as your personal LORD and SAVIOR, you are now one heartbeat from spending eternity in Heaven; however, if you have rejected HIM, you are still one heartbeat from and eternity in a Devil's Hell. "He that believeth on the SON hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him" (John 3:36).
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie





Wednesday, July 14, 2021

" THE GIFT OF GOD . . . Living Water "

 


Living  Water

The LORD JESUS used water to teach the woman at the well about eternal life. HE said, "Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst" (John 4:13-14).

HIS words stirred up a desire in her heart to want "living water" (John 4:10). She said to JESUS, "SIR, give me this water" (John 4:15). Salvation and eternal life are the Living Water JESUS is speaking of.

FIRST, we must desire Living Water

JESUS said, "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6). Do you thirst for this life JESUS offers ?

SECOND, we must see our need for CHRIST

The Bible says, "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23). In other words, we are all sinners.

Our sin must be paid for, and "CHRIST died for our sins . . . was buried, and . . . HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures" (1st.Corinthians 15:3-4).

HE paid our sin debt in full. When JESUS rose from the grave it proved GOD accepted HIS payment for our sin. Salvation is free but it is not cheap. It cost HIM HIS life.

THIRD, we must ask for Living Water

The Bible says, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST, pray this simple prayer of salvation or one like it:  

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me, come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

The LORD JESUS said, ". . . I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish . . ." (John 10:28). Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal SAVIOR.

Now That You're a Christian 

Share your new-found faith with your family and friends (Acts 16:31-33).
Identify with CHRIST through believer's baptism and become part of a local, Bible-believing church (Acts 2:41-47).

GULF  COAST  BAPTIST  CHURCH
Pastor Tom Sexton
312 SE 24th. Avenue
Cape Coral, FL   33990
GulfCoastBaptist@aol.com
www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com

www.ChristianYouthCommission.com
www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com