Jesus is the beginning and end of every person’s salvation. Jesus very simply yet powerfully proclaimed, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). But, what does this mean? Is it a matter of just claiming Jesus as your Lord and Savior (as most churches will tell you), or is there more to it?

Before we help you explore the answer, let’s examine two common misconceptions embraced by most churchgoers today. The first is based on probably one of the most quoted scriptures of all time (John 3:16), and the second concerns the concept of “deathbed repentance” founded upon the thief on the cross.

Introduction