Has the Sinner’s Prayer Done More Harm Than Good?
Helping people recognize and respond to Jesus
On his way to Damascus to find and imprison Christians, Saul of Tarsus was confronted by the risen Jesus. In the story, a blinding light from heaven shone down on him and he heard a voice calling to him.
In that moment, he asked two simple questions:
Who are you, Lord?
What shall I do, Lord?
These were the right questions. Saul left the encounter a permanently changed man.1
Saul needed what we all need when confronted with Jesus. First, to recognize who he truly is. And second, to respond to him in the right way.
Calling People to True Faith
If we don’t have faith it’s impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must have two basic beliefs: first, that God exists and second, that God rewards those who diligently seek him.2
This is why the way we share the gospel is so important. How we call people to respond matters. It’s possible the sinner’s prayer has ruined more people than it’s saved because often it leads to complacency and a false sense of security. We equate saying the right words to having faith. Is this what it means to “diligently seek him”?
Jesus isn’t looking for fans. He’s looking for followers. Just as he did 2000 years ago, Jesus is calling people like you and me to become his disciples.
To be a disciple means you belong to Jesus and you’re living for him. It means not only did you have an experience with him in the past but you’re seeking to focus your life on him in the present. You’re seeking to follow him daily.
When we share the gospel we should aim to give people clarity on two things: Who is Jesus? And how does he expect them to respond?
Acts 22.1-16
Hebrews 11.6