to be saved, non-christians must confess christ (romans 10:8-17)
Introduction:
1. These verses reveal some important information about salvation. 2. Notice the subjects mentioned in connection with salvation that apply to everyone, including Jews and Gentiles: a. preaching, hearing, and obeying the Gospel b. believing that God raised Jesus from the dead c. confessing the Lord Jesus d. calling on the name of the Lord [explained in Acts 22:16]. 3. In our lessons today we are concentrating on passages that teach how "confessing Christ is a requirement for salvation." a. This morning: "To be saved, non-Christians must confess Christ." b. This evening: "To be saved, Christians must confess Christ." 4. The first point we need to make for non-Christians is that . . . Discussion:
I. "CONFESSION" IS A KEY COMPONENT OF THE PLAN OF SALVATION
A. Some important details relating to confession are revealed in Romans 10:9-10. 1. The means of confession is "with the mouth." a. This implies that a statement is made. b. The statement made with the mouth reveals what is believed in the heart. 2. The content of confession is "the Lord Jesus." a. The person making the confession must believe in his heart that God raised Jesus from the dead. b. This is important because Jesus was "declared to be the Son of God with power" by His resurrection from the dead (Romans 1:4). 3. The purpose of confession is "unto salvation." a. Confession is an essential part of the plan of salvation. b. Thankfully, we have a great example of conversion to help us. II. THE CONVERSION OF THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH ILLUSTRATES HOW CONFESSION RELATES TO SALVATION (Acts 8:26-39)
A. (vs.26-35) Philip taught this man the Gospel. B. (vs.36) The eunuch wanted to know what hindered him from being baptized. C. (vs.37a) Philip said he could be baptized if he believed with all his heart. D. (vs.37b) The eunuch confessed his belief that Jesus is God's Son. E. (vs.38) Philip baptized the eunuch. F. (vs.39) The eunuch "went on his way rejoicing." Conclusion:
1. Do you believe that Jesus is God's Son? 2. Are you willing to confess your belief? 3. Upon your confession, will you submit to baptism to receive the Lord's forgiveness?
