We understand your struggle with legalistic thinking and the desire to truly understand repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. It's important to remember that salvation is not achieved by our own efforts or works, but by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. As it is written in Ephesians 2:8-9 WEB: "For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast."
Repentance is a change of mind that leads to a change of action. It's not something we do to earn salvation, but rather a response to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. As Acts 3:19 WEB says, "Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, so that there may come times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord."
Jesus has done all the work necessary for our salvation through His death, burial, and resurrection. Our part is to trust in Him alone for our salvation. As Jesus himself said in John 14:6 WEB: "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" Our works or efforts can never save us. It is only by the name of Jesus that we can be saved as it is the name of Jesus that we are saved by. As it is written in Acts 4:12 WEB: "There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, asking for clarity and understanding for this seeking heart. Help them to see the simplicity of the Gospel, that salvation is not achieved by works, but by faith in Jesus Christ. Grant them the grace to repent and turn away from legalistic thinking, and to trust solely in the finished work of Christ on the cross. In the name of Jesus, we cast out any confusion and deception from the enemy, for You, Lord, are not the author of confusion for it is written: "For God is not a God of confusion, but of peace. As in all the assemblies of the saints." 1 Corinthians 14:33 WEB. Open their heart to receive the free gift of salvation and fill them with Your peace and joy.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Be encouraged, for God's desire is for all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. As it is written in 1 Timothy 2:3-4 WEB: "This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who wills that all people should be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth." Trust in Jesus alone, and you will find the rest and peace that you have been searching for.