Prayer:

 

"Heavenly Father, Yahweh, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking understanding and wisdom. Open our minds to the truths in Your Word and guide us on the path to salvation. Through Yeshua, our Redeemer, we pray. Amen."

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Introduction:

 

The Bible provides a comprehensive answer to the question of what it takes to be saved. This devotional explores this vital topic through a series of key scriptures and insights, focusing on the roles of faith, grace, repentance, baptism, and living a transformed life. Special attention will be given to the importance of baptism as a critical step in the journey of salvation.

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Scripture Exploration:

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Faith in Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah

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• John 3:16 (RV 1895): "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."

• Acts 16:31 (RV 1895): "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house."

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Grace of Yahweh (God)

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• Ephesians 2:8-9 (RV 1895): "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."

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Repentance

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• Acts 2:38 (RV 1895): "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

• Luke 13:3 (RV 1895): "I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish."

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Baptism

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• Mark 16:16 (RV 1895): "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."

• Romans 6:3-4 (RV 1895): "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."

• Acts 2:38 (RV 1895): "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

• 1 Peter 3:21 (RV 1895): "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ."

• Colossians 2:12 (RV 1895): "Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead."

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Living a Transformed Life

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• Romans 12:1-2 (RV 1895): "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

• James 2:17 (RV 1895): "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

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Deep Dive: Exploring the Scriptures in Depth

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Faith in Yeshua

Believing in Yeshua (Jesus) is foundational for salvation. Faith in Him as the Son of God and Savior is crucial. This faith is not just intellectual assent but trust and reliance on Yeshua's sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.

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Grace of Yahweh

Salvation is a gift from Yahweh, given by grace. It is not something we can earn through our efforts or good works. This underscores the generosity and love of Yahweh in offering salvation freely to all who believe.

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Repentance

Repentance involves a heartfelt turning away from sin and turning towards Yahweh. It is a crucial step in the process of salvation, reflecting a change in heart and mind.

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Baptism

Baptism is an outward expression of inward faith and repentance. It symbolizes the believer's union with Yeshua in His death, burial, and resurrection, representing a new beginning and a commitment to live according to Yahweh's will. Baptism is commanded by Yeshua and is an essential step in the salvation process. It is closely linked with the reception of the Holy Spirit and signifies a washing away of sins and a rebirth into new life in Yeshua. The act of baptism is a public declaration of faith and obedience to Yahweh, marking the believer's entry into the community of faith.

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Living a Transformed Life

Salvation leads to a transformed life. While we are saved by grace through faith, genuine faith manifests in good works and a life that seeks to honor Yahweh. The transformation involves renewing the mind and aligning our lives with Yahweh's purposes.

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Relatable Scenario

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Imagine a young woman named Cathy  who has been struggling with feelings of emptiness and guilt over past mistakes. She feels distant from God and is searching for meaning in her life. One day, she attends a church service where the pastor speaks about the story of the prodigal son and the boundless grace of Yahweh. Inspired, Cathy begins to explore her faith, starting with small steps. She reads the Bible, prays, and eventually feels the pull to repent and turn her life around. She decides to get baptized, symbolizing her commitment to follow Yeshua. Over time, Cathy's life transforms as she actively lives out her faith, finding peace and purpose in her relationship with Yahweh.

 

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Reflection & Application:

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1. Have you placed your faith in Yeshua as your Savior?

2. In what areas of your life do you need to experience Yahweh's grace?

3. How can you incorporate repentance into your daily walk with God?

4. Have you considered the significance of baptism in your spiritual journey?

5. In what ways is your life being transformed to reflect your faith?

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Practical Steps or Challenge:

 

1. Faith: Take a moment each day to reaffirm your faith in Yeshua through prayer and reading Scripture.

2. Grace: Reflect on the ways Yahweh's grace has been evident in your life and express gratitude in your prayers.

3. Repentance: Identify areas in your life where you need to turn away from sin and commit to making those changes.

4. Baptism: If you haven't been baptized, consider taking this important step in your faith journey.

5. Transformed Life: Look for opportunities to demonstrate your faith through acts of kindness, service, and love.

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Quiz for Understanding

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1. What is the foundation of salvation according to the Bible?

2. How is salvation described in terms of Yahweh's grace?

3. What does repentance involve in the process of salvation?

4. Why is baptism considered an essential step in salvation?

5. How does living a transformed life relate to faith?

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Closing Prayer:​

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"Yahweh, we thank You for Your incredible gift of salvation through Yeshua. Help us to live by faith, embrace Your grace, repent of our sins, and live transformed lives that honor You. Guide us daily and renew our minds, so we may walk in Your perfect will. In Yeshua's name, we pray. Amen."

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Further Study:

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• John 3:1-21

• Acts 16:25-34

• Ephesians 2:1-10

• Romans 6:1-14

• James 2:14-26

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Concluding Thoughts:

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Salvation is a journey that involves faith, grace, repentance, baptism, and living a transformed life. As we embrace these elements, we are redeemed and renewed, walking in the fullness of Yahweh's love and purpose. May you continue to grow in your faith and experience the abundant life that comes through Yeshua.