Accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior is the most important decision a person can make. It’s not about religion—it’s about relationship. It’s saying yes to grace, forgiveness, and a new life with God.
While the actual “sinner’s prayer” isn’t quoted word-for-word in the Bible, the steps to salvation are clearly laid out in Scripture.
In this post, we’ll walk through 15 Bible verses that guide and support a heartfelt prayer to receive Christ. These verses help you understand what it means to accept Jesus, why you need Him, and how to take that step in faith.
Whether you’re seeking salvation for yourself or want to share it with someone else, these scriptures provide the truth you need.
Key Takeaways Before We Begin
- Salvation is a gift from God, received by grace through faith.
- Accepting Jesus involves believing in Him, confessing Him, and turning from sin.
- These verses offer a roadmap to understanding and praying for salvation.
- God desires a personal relationship with every individual.
15 Bible Verses About Accepting Jesus as Your Lord and Savior
1. Romans 10:9
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Explanation:
This verse clearly shows the foundation of salvation: believe in your heart and speak it with your mouth. It’s the heart of the salvation prayer.
2. Romans 10:13
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Explanation:
Salvation is available to everyone—no matter your past. If you call on Jesus sincerely, He responds.
3. John 1:12
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Explanation:
Accepting Jesus means receiving Him into your life. When you do, you become part of God’s family—His child.
4. John 3:16
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.
Explanation:
One of the most well-known verses, this shows God’s love and the purpose of Jesus’ sacrifice—to give eternal life to those who believe.
5. Acts 16:31
And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
Explanation:
Paul spoke this to a jailer seeking salvation. It’s simple: believe in Jesus, and salvation follows—not just for you, but potentially for your whole household.
6. Ephesians 2:8-9
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.
Explanation:
You can’t earn salvation—it’s a gift. This verse reminds us that it’s not about being good enough but about trusting Jesus.
7. Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
Explanation:
Jesus is always ready to come into your life—you just have to open the door. This verse pictures salvation as an invitation to relationship.
8. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Explanation:
When you accept Jesus, you’re made new. The past is forgiven, and you begin a brand-new life with Him.
9. 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Explanation:
Confession is part of coming to Christ. When we admit our sin, God responds with forgiveness and grace.
10. Titus 3:5
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Explanation:
This verse echoes the truth that salvation comes from God’s mercy—not from our good deeds. The Holy Spirit makes us new from the inside out.
11. Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Explanation:
Accepting Jesus means surrendering your old life and letting Him live through you. It’s a complete heart transformation.
12. Isaiah 1:18
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Explanation:
No sin is too great for God to forgive. This verse offers hope and cleansing for anyone ready to turn to Him.
13. Matthew 11:28
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Explanation:
Jesus invites the weary and burdened to come to Him. Salvation brings rest for the soul, not just forgiveness.
14. 1 John 5:11-12
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
Explanation:
Eternal life isn’t found in religion or good works—it’s found in a person: Jesus. When you have Him, you have life.
15. Psalm 51:10
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Explanation:
Though written by David, this prayer reflects the heart of someone seeking salvation. It’s a beautiful way to express your desire for a new start with God.
Final Thoughts: Take the Step, Say the Prayer
These accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior prayer Bible verses reveal God’s heart for you. He’s not waiting for perfection—He’s waiting for surrender. If your heart is ready, you don’t need fancy words. Just pray from a sincere place:
“Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I confess my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I accept You as my Lord and Savior. Come into my life. Make me new. Help me follow You. Amen.”
If you prayed that prayer today, know that heaven rejoices and your journey with God has begun.
Let’s Celebrate Together
Did you accept Jesus as your Savior today? Or do you remember the moment you did?
Share your experience or favorite verse in the comments. Let’s encourage one another in this life-changing step of faith.