Nothing in life is more important than connecting with the God who created you and He has made that connection possible through His Son, Jesus Christ. In fact, that’s what the message of the Gospel is really all about. God loves you and He wants to have a relationship with you.

Connection Church is a place where you can connect with God, grow in Christ, and serve in the Spirit. God wants to connect with you and, like many people, you undoubtedly have questions about how to get to know God. I hope that in the sections below you will find answers that help you take the most important steps of your life - steps toward Him. Because when we take a few steps toward Him, He comes running toward us!

Archie Neal
Senior Pastor

1Recognize that you're a sinner.

First, you must admit your spiritual need: “There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10). We can't make excuses or blame others and our circumstances for our actions. “For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

2Acknowledge that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you.

“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God...” (I Peter 3:18). Jesus paid the price for your sin. The Apostle Paul said, “...the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).

3Repent of your sins

The word “repent” means “to change your direction.” The Bible tells us, “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord” (Acts 3:19). God commands us to repent. You must be willing to turn away from the things that displease God.

4Accept Jesus as your savior.

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”(Matthew 11:28). It is essential that you come to Jesus as you are. Don't try to “clean up your life” before you come to God. Instead, receive Him and allow Him to do the “cleansing.” Jesus said, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out” (John 6:37).

After reading this, if you're ready to take the next step, please say the prayer below.

Lord Jesus, I recognize that I need you in my life. Thank you for accepting me just as I am. Forgive me for my sins. I receive you as my personal Lord and Savior and I commit to putting you first in my life. In Jesus name, Amen.

DID YOU SAY THE PRAYER?

If you did, there is no need to worry that God did not hear you. His word promises us that “everyone who calls on the name of Lord will be saved”. If you prayed this prayer of repentance, you have entered into a relationship with God. You are now His child! We rejoice with you.

We want to help you with your next steps in your walk with God. If you would, just let us know so we can send you some materials that will be helpful to you. Contact us.

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

Remember that God wants to have a relationship with you, which means it is a real, interactive thing.

Here are some things you can do to grow in your relationship with God:

• Tell someone about your decision - Talk to a pastor or trusted friend who shares this new faith, so they can encourage you in your walk.
• Pray. - The way believers talk to God is through prayer. Your prayer should be from your heart to His. Don't worry about saying the exact right words. God wants to know what's on your heart.
• Read God's Word - There are countless truths to live by found in this book and in its pages you will find many promises of hope and joy written just for you. Don't feel you have to tackle the whole Bible at once. There are many versions that are written in easy to understand language. Visit a local bookstore and find one that you feel comfortable with.
• Find a church - Find a good local church where you can join with others and share your faith. If you happen to be in the O’Fallon area, we want to extend an invitation to join us at one of our services.