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NASB | Romans 10:9 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Romans 10:9 because if you acknowledge and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [recognizing His power, authority, and majesty as God], and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. |
Bible Question:
Alter Calls........ I would appreciate any biblical applications AND opinions/experiences of anyone who would like to respond. I am asking because it has come up several times in my church services where the Pastor has brought the gospel to a clear understanding......and then does not give an "alter call" to those who would respond at that time.....I feel this is crucial to those who are feeling the tug and want to answer the call....they are left without that opportunity AT THE TIME. During these times the Pastor has imparted the salvation message....it leads right up to that expectant point of one taking a step of faith and then "wham" shuts the door. I would appreciate anyones comments and wisdom about this. Also, for those who would think to ask me....no, I have not been in a church that have had alter calls...so I am not familiar with seeing it implimented in church. I just feel that during those times that the Pastor leads there that there should be an alter call...not every sunday. I am planning to ask my Pastor about this too. Thank you all......Hugger P.S. I did a search on this but did not find any questions and answers on this subject on the forum. |
Bible Answer: Dear Hugger, Greetings in Jesus' name! The above Scripture, and the following verses are usually the "proof text" concerning the need for a 'public confession of Christ.' This is often associated with the 'Altar Call.' There are times in my church that we have such times, but know that it is not the response of coming forward in a public assembly that saves, but your response to God! The one who needs to hear your confession of Christ is not peers or onlookers, but the Lord Himself. If there were times that you felt that the 'situation was ripe' for a meeting with God, then trust that God was faithful to fulfil His promises! He would never let anyone 'get away' because they did not make a public response at that specific time and place. On a side note, see that some discount these experiences anyway! For (according to some) if you make such a confession, but 'fall away,' you were never saved anyway! Please note also that I do not feel this way. If a person comes forth in response to the preaching of the Gospel, I always give the 'benefit of the doubt' that he was touched by the Lord. Many times I have heard of those that 'did not have the courage' to go forward, but were indeed touched by the Word of faith preached, and responded in their hearts. I count this to be as valid as an 'appearance' before the congregation. In Christ Jesus, charis |