How do I know if I am saved? - Lesson Recap

That was the question this morning..and the topic of our lesson. How do we know if we are saved? How do we know if we have eternal life?

Jesus talks about this with a man named Nicodemus in John 3:1-21

First, we must be "born of water". (v. 5) Or basically a human being, who has a set period of time on earth to receive eternal life. Our problem is that we think we will be a living human being forever and have plenty of time to work this out. I wish that was reality. Reality is that we have no clue when our time is up. Why not explore if there is an eternity, a God, and a way to Him?

Second, we must be "born of the Spirit". (v.5) Jesus states that "the Holy Spirit gives new life from heaven", and compares this to the wind. Have you ever seen the wind? No. You see and feel the effects of the wind, but not the wind. Wind is invisible. Now, when God is working to bring you to him, you won't actually see Him. You will see and feel the effects of Him as he moves in your life. Take a second... What "coincidences" are going on in your life? Are people just showing up, talking to you about God? Do you have a pull deep down inside to go to Church or ask someone about Christ? Hmmmm...

Third, Jesus said, "everyone who believes in me will have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it." OK, believe what exactly? That Jesus existed? Yes. That Jesus died for my mistakes, rebellion, wrongs...so I don't have to? Yes. That the only way to get right with God and live forever is through that death? Yes.

Finally, is there any evidence at all that you believe? Did you just say the words or do you really believe? Do you have any attitude changes? Do you love others? Do you have compassion for others where you may not have in the past? Do you want to give? Do you want to serve? You see, this kind of love that God gives us will compel you to change your ways. You can't help it, you just want to change. Not a process that happens overnight for most, but a lifechange should occur.

So, that's how to know.

Are you alive? Do you recognize your rebellion against God? Are you trusting the right one to deal with your rebellion? Is there any evidence of change?