Page 93 - Principles for Discipling Others-Student textbook

Christian: That’s right. Joe, wouldn’t you like to turn from your sins right now and become a child of God,
and know that you are on your way to heaven?
Joe: Yes
At this point Joe, might hesitate, say “No” or have some questions. If so, we might:
1) encourage him to not put it off because life is so uncertain or
2) try to answer a couple of sincere questions or
3) suggest that he read some more in the Book of John and ask if we could talk with him another time.
But if he is ready then we would continue….

Christian: Great! Well how does a person receive Christ? It’s like receiving a gift at Christmas. Joe, can
you read this verse? Ephesians 2: 8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not
your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
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Joe: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of
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God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Christian: Yes….the picture is that Jesus is offering you a gift of salvation….what does the verse say? it is
the gift of God. Jesus paid the price for your sins and now is offering you forgiveness as a gift. But if I
offered you a gift, what must you do to make it yours?
Joe: Take it from you.

Christian: Yes, and that’s it! You simply pray to God and tell Him you want to receive His Gift of salvation.
Would you like to have your sins forgiven, Joe?
Joe: Yes

Christian: How does a person talk to God?
Joe: In prayer.

Christian: Yes! Would you like to pray now and receive the gift of salvation and make Jesus Lord of your
life?
Joe: Yes!

[At this point Joe might say that he doesn’t know how to pray. Then you might suggest that he follow you
as you pray the sinner’s prayer for him.]

Christian: Dear Jesus……..[Joe repeats],……I know that I’m a sinner and that I can’t save myself……[Joe
repeats] I have really messed up my life trying to live it without you. [Joe repeats] I know you paid the
penalty for my sins on the cross…..[Joe repeats]….. and I ask you to forgive my sins, save me, and come
into my life…..[Joe repeats]…. and take me to heaven to be with you when I die. Right now I receive the
gift of eternal life that you offer me and thank you for it. Jesus, please be Lord and Master of my life.[Joe
repeats]

Christian: Joe….did you really mean that prayer?
Joe: Yes!

Christian: Then based on God’s Word, your name has now been written in a special book in heaven, your
sins have been forgiven, and you are born-again. And what do you say when someone gives you a very
great gift?

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