I went to Mass every Sunday

1. What We Learn from the Video 

Is tradition enough to save you? Alejandro Ruiz, raised in a devout Catholic family, thought so, but his story in "I went to Mass every Sunday" reveals a profound truth: salvation requires personal obedience to God's Word, not religious rituals. Alejandro participated in sacraments like infant baptism and confession, believing they secured his standing with God. However, feeling empty, he started reading the Bible and discovered the Bible plan of salvation.

The speaker realized Catholic traditions, such as the rosary and Mass, didn't align with Scripture's teachings. “Salvation doesn't come through a church system. It doesn't come through a list of rituals or sacraments,” he says, capturing the video’s point. Studying the Gospels, Acts, and Romans, he learned salvation involves faith, repentance, and baptism as an adult (Acts 2:38: “Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins”). The truth about baptism is a command for believers, not infants. Alejandro obeyed the gospel, finding peace through Jesus, not the Church.

The video challenges Catholics to question traditions and seek biblical truth. Romans 10:9 (“If you declare… Jesus is Lord… you will be saved”) emphasizes personal response. Alejandro’s journey from guilt to peace urges viewers to read Scripture independently. Will you let tradition hold you back, or embrace the Bible plan of salvation and the truth about baptism for true peace with God?

2. Why We Should Believe the Bible 

Fulfilled Prophecy

Why trust the Bible over religious traditions? Its trustworthiness of Scripture shines through fulfilled prophecies. Alejandro, feeling distant despite rituals, said, “Why does God feel distant?” Studying Scripture brought clarity. Isaiah 7:14 (“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son”) predicted Jesus’ birth centuries earlier, proving divine accuracy.

Historical Accuracy

The authority of the Bible rests on historical precision. Archaeological finds, like the Dead Sea Scrolls, confirm texts like Isaiah. Acts, detailing baptisms (Acts 2:38: “Repent and be baptized”), aligns with first-century records. Alejandro’s church focused on sacraments, but Scripture’s reliability grounded his faith in truth.

Eyewitness Testimony

Scripture comes from eyewitnesses. 2 Peter 1:16 states, “We did not follow cleverly devised stories… but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” Alejandro’s study of Acts and Romans shows trust in accounts from Jesus’ followers. These testimonies surpass Catholic traditions, ensuring credibility.

Divine Inspiration

The Bible is God’s Word is truth. 2 Timothy 3:16 declares, “All Scripture is God-breathed.” Alejandro’s shift to “real, obedient faith” reflects Scripture’s power to correct. John 17:17 adds, “Your word is truth.” Its unified message across centuries proves divine origin, guiding salvation over human rituals.

Bible as Ultimate Authority

Alejandro trusted Catholic sacraments until studying Scripture. The authority of the Bible outweighs traditions. Acts 2:38 calls for believer’s baptism, not infant rites. A Catholic family member, like Alejandro, reads Acts 8:38 and chooses obedience, finding peace. Persuasively, Scripture’s consistency trumps church systems. Embrace God’s Word is truth, studying Acts to follow the gospel for eternal life.

3. How to Apply This Truth to My Life 

Alejandro’s journey—“Salvation comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism”—urges you to apply God’s Word for salvation. Here are four steps to embrace biblical truth.

Study Scripture Personally

Alejandro “started reading” the Gospels, Acts, and Romans. Read Acts 2:38 (“Repent and be baptized”) daily with a Bible app or journal. Persuasively, Scripture reveals God’s plan, unlike sacraments.

Believe and Repent

Alejandro discovered “real, obedient faith.” John 3:16 calls for belief: “Whoever believes in him shall not perish.” Acts 3:19 urges, “Repent… so that your sins may be wiped out.” Trust Jesus and confess sins (1 John 1:9). A student might repent of doubt, choosing prayer. Obedience to the gospel begins here.

Be Baptized as a Believer

Alejandro obeyed through baptism. Acts 22:16 commands, “Be baptized and wash your sins away.” Seek immersion after faith (Romans 6:3-4). Persuasively, baptism unites with Christ, not rituals.

Live Faithfully

Christian living means ongoing obedience. Alejandro “responded to Him on His terms.” Revelation 2:10 urges, “Be faithful… and I will give you life.” Pray, worship, and serve (Hebrews 10:25). Persuasively, faithfulness secures salvation.

Modern Life Scenario

Maria, 35, a Catholic mother, participated in Mass and confession, feeling empty like Alejandro. Reading Acts after the video, she realized “salvation comes through Jesus, not the Church.” Maria believed, repented, was baptized, and joined a Church of Christ, transforming her Christian living. Her family followed, studying Acts 2.

Apply God’s Word through study, faith, repentance, baptism, and faithfulness. Obey the gospel today, finding true peace in Christ.

4. What This Denomination Teaches about Salvation

Overview of Catholic Salvation Teaching

The denominational view of salvation in the Roman Catholic Church is a lifelong process involving faith, works, and sacraments, mediated through the Church. The speaker, raised in a strong Catholic family, believed participation in rituals like baptism and confession ensured salvation. As they describe, “If I participated in the sacraments, confessed my sins, went to Mass, and stayed in good standing with the Church, then I was fine spiritually.” This reflects Catholic theology, where salvation is by grace through faith, but faith is completed by works and sacraments, as taught in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Role of Faith and Grace

Catholic teaching emphasizes salvation by grace through faith, but not faith alone; faith must be active in love. James 2:24 is cited: “A person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” Faith is trusting Christ’s atonement, but it requires cooperation with grace. The sinner’s prayer is not central, but personal prayer and confession are encouraged. The speaker’s family kept “a crucifix over every doorway” and prayed the rosary, illustrating faith’s integration with devotion. Salvation involves justification (forgiveness) and sanctification (holiness), with grace infused through sacraments.

The Sacraments in Salvation

Sacraments are channels of grace essential for salvation. Baptism removes original sin, confirmation strengthens faith, Eucharist nourishes spiritually, and confession restores grace after sin. The speaker participated in these, but felt “guilt, even after confession.” The Church teaches sacraments, instituted by Christ, are necessary, as in John 3:5: “No one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.” Purgatory purifies souls post-death, with prayers aiding the dead, emphasizing ongoing grace.

Water Baptism’s Role

The water baptism meaning in Catholicism is regenerative, removing original sin and incorporating into the Church. Baptism, often for infants by pouring or sprinkling, is a sacrament conferring grace, per Acts 2:39: “The promise is for you and your children.” The speaker was “baptized as a baby,” believing it saved them. Confirmation completes baptism, imparting the Holy Spirit, as in Acts 8:17. The Church views baptism as necessary for salvation, but the speaker later realized “salvation doesn't come through a church system.”

Historical Context

Catholic salvation teaching originates from apostolic tradition and councils. The Council of Trent (1545–1563) affirmed salvation by grace through faith and works, responding to Protestant faith alone. The Vatican II Council (1962–1965) reaffirmed sacraments’ role while opening to ecumenism. The speaker’s church, with “faith and family deeply connected,” reflects Latin American Catholic influence, where rosary and Mass are cultural staples.

Comparison to New Testament Teaching

The New Testament teaches salvation through obedience to the gospel, which the speaker discovered: “It comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism.” Acts 2:38 commands, “Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins,” emphasizing believer’s baptism. Mark 16:16 states, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.” James 2:24 supports faith with works, but Catholic merit differs from NT grace (Ephesians 2:8). Infant baptism lacks NT example (Acts 8:36-38 shows adult immersion). The Church of Christ, which the speaker joined, follows Romans 6:3-4 (“Baptized into his death”), requiring personal faith, repentance, confession, and baptism for forgiveness (1 Peter 3:21), followed by faithfulness (Revelation 2:10). Catholic sacraments, while nurturing, diverge from NT’s direct obedience.

Respectful Reflection

Respectfully, Catholicism’s sacraments offer spiritual support but can obscure NT’s personal obedience. The speaker’s shift to “responding to Him on His terms” urges testing traditions against Scripture. Study Acts 2 to embrace the water baptism meaning as an act of faith, aligning with God’s plan for salvation.

5. What the Bible Teaches about Salvation 

Have you asked, “What must I do to be saved?” The Bible way to be saved is a personal response to Jesus, not through church systems. The speaker felt empty despite traditions, realizing “salvation comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism.” Studying the Gospels, Acts, and Romans, they obeyed the gospel. The New Testament plan of salvation includes hearing the Word, believing, repenting, confession, baptism, and living faithfully. Let’s explore each step with Scripture, practical guidance, and persuasive insights.

Hearing the Word

Salvation starts with hearing God’s message. Romans 10:17 states, “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” The speaker, after a friend’s challenge, “opened it and read what it actually says about salvation.” Without hearing, faith can’t grow (Hebrews 4:12: “The word of God is alive and active”).

Practically, read John 5:39 (“These are the Scriptures that testify about me”) daily. Use a Bible app or listen to podcasts. A busy mother, like the speaker’s abuela with rosary prayers, might hear Acts 2:38 in a study, sparking curiosity. Persuasively, hearing counters traditions, as the speaker found. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans for examining Scriptures daily. In a noisy world, set aside time for quiet reading. This step ignites faith, leading to belief.

Believing the Gospel

Hearing fosters belief. Mark 16:16 declares, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” John 3:16 adds, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The speaker believed in Jesus but lacked obedience; their study deepened faith in Christ’s atonement (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Practically, study prophecies like Isaiah 53:5 (“He was pierced for our transgressions”). If doubts linger, pray as in Mark 9:24: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” A young professional, trusting sacraments, might read John 20:31 (“These are written that you may believe”) and trust Jesus. Ephesians 2:8 assures, “By grace you have been saved, through faith.” Persuasively, belief is trusting Jesus as the only way (Acts 4:12). The speaker’s realization “salvation comes through Jesus” urges repentance.

Repenting of Sin

Belief demands repentance. Acts 2:38 commands, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Luke 13:3 warns, “Unless you repent, you too will all perish.” The speaker’s shift to “faith, repentance, and baptism” implies turning from tradition to God’s will. 2 Corinthians 7:10 promises, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation.”

Practically, confess sins (1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful… to forgive”). Replace pride with humility (Ephesians 4:2). A father, like the speaker, might repent of trusting rituals, choosing prayer. Acts 17:30 urges, “God… commands all people everywhere to repent.” Persuasively, repentance frees from guilt, as the prodigal son shows (Luke 15:21). It’s essential in the New Testament plan of salvation, leading to confession.

Confessing Faith

Repentance leads to confession. Romans 10:9-10 states, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” The speaker’s response to Jesus reflects confession. Matthew 10:32 promises, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.”

Practically, confess Jesus in church or prayer. A student, taught sacraments save, might declare faith after reading Romans 10. Philippians 2:11 envisions “every tongue acknowledging that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Persuasively, confession strengthens commitment (1 Timothy 6:12). This step leads to baptism.

Baptism for Remission of Sins

Baptism is pivotal. Acts 2:38 links it to forgiveness, and 1 Peter 3:21 clarifies, “This water symbolizes baptism that now saves you… as a pledge of a clear conscience toward God.” The truth about baptism is immersion for believers, not infants, as the speaker learned. Romans 6:3-4 explains, “All of us who were baptized into Christ… were baptized into his death… that we too may live a new life.”

Acts 8:36-38 shows the eunuch baptized after belief: “What prevents me from being baptized?” Acts 22:16 urges, “Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away.” Practically, seek immersion, not sprinkling. A woman, trusting Catholic rites, studies Galatians 3:27 (“Baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ”) and chooses baptism. Persuasively, baptism remits sins (Acts 2:41), unlike sacraments.

Living Faithfully

Salvation requires faithfulness. Revelation 2:10 urges, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” The speaker “responded to Him on His terms,” implying ongoing obedience. Hebrews 10:25 encourages fellowship, and James 1:22 warns, “Do not merely listen to the word… do what it says.”

Practically, pray, study, and serve (Titus 2:12). A man, leaving Catholicism, joins a Church of Christ, finding purpose. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 shows Paul’s endurance. Persuasively, faithfulness avoids apostasy (Hebrews 6:4-6).

Heartfelt Appeal

The Bible way to be saved is clear. Like the speaker who said, “Salvation comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism,” reject rituals for truth. Obey the gospel today, finding eternal joy.

6. Background of the Denomination 

Founding and Origin

The history of Catholic Church traces back to the 1st century AD, founded by Jesus Christ in Judea, with the Apostle Peter as the first pope, according to Catholic tradition. Jesus’ words in Matthew 16:18—“You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church”—mark this origin. The Church spread from Jerusalem to Rome, becoming the Roman Catholic Church by the 4th century. The speaker’s family church, with “faith and family deeply connected,” reflects this ancient heritage.

Core Doctrines

The origin of Catholic Church teachings lies in apostolic tradition and Scripture, interpreted by the Magisterium. Core doctrines include the Trinity, Mary’s role, and seven sacraments as channels of grace. Salvation is by grace through faith and works, as in James 2:24: “A person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” The speaker’s practices like Mass and confession align with this, but they later realized “salvation doesn't come through a church system.” The Church teaches original sin is removed by baptism, with ongoing grace through sacraments.

Salvation Teaching

Catholic salvation teaching emphasizes cooperation with grace via faith, works, and sacraments. Infant baptism initiates salvation, confirmation strengthens it, and Eucharist sustains it. The speaker’s “baptized as a baby” and confession reflect this. The Council of Trent (1545–1563) affirmed salvation by faith and works, responding to Protestant Reformation’s faith alone. This event tied salvation to sacraments, contrasting the speaker’s discovery of “real, obedient faith.”

Historical Context

The history of Catholic Church includes the Edict of Milan (313 AD), legalizing Christianity and spreading sacrament-based salvation. The Great Schism (1054) separated Eastern Orthodox, but Catholic doctrine remained centered on grace through the Church. The Reformation (1517) challenged this, with Luther’s faith alone, leading Trent to reaffirm works. The Vatican II Council (1962–1965) modernized practices but retained sacraments’ role in salvation. The speaker’s church, with rosary and confession, fits this tradition, emphasizing grace mediated by the Church.

Biblical Reflection

The speaker’s shift—“I made the decision to obey the gospel the way the Bible teaches”—aligns with Acts 2:38: “Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins.” Catholic emphasis on infant baptism and sacraments differs from NT’s believer’s baptism (Mark 16:16). Study Acts to follow God’s plan, prioritizing obedience over rituals.

7. Key Bible Passages to Read and Study 

The speaker’s transformation—“Salvation comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism”—highlights Bible verses about salvation. These Scriptures for eternal life reveal God’s plan, countering sacramental reliance. Below are 10 verses with explanations.

1. Acts 2:38

“Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins.”
Peter’s command shows baptism’s necessity for forgiveness, unlike infant rituals.

2. Mark 16:16

“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved…”
Jesus ties faith and baptism to salvation, prompting the speaker’s change.

3. Romans 6:3-4

“Baptized into his death… we too may live a new life.”
Baptism unites with Christ, a step the speaker took.

4. 1 Peter 3:21

“Baptism that now saves you…”
Baptism is salvific, as the speaker learned through study.

5. John 3:16

“Whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Belief is foundational, sparking the speaker’s journey.

6. Romans 10:9

“If you declare… Jesus is Lord… you will be saved.”
Confession is vital, part of the speaker’s obedience.

7. Acts 22:16

“Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away…”
Baptism cleanses sins, unlike sacramental traditions.

8. Galatians 3:27

“Baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
Baptism connects to Jesus, aligning with the speaker’s shift.

9. James 2:24

“A person is justified by works and not by faith alone.”
Obedience, not just faith, is required, correcting Catholic teachings.

10. Revelation 2:10

“Be faithful… and I will give you life.”
Faithfulness ensures salvation, completing the gospel plan.

Study these Bible verses about salvation to find the Scriptures for eternal life. Obey the gospel for eternal hope, leaving traditions for Christ’s truth.

8. Common Misunderstandings about Salvation 

False teachings about salvation mislead, as the speaker found: “Salvation comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism.” Below, five misconceptions about grace are corrected with Scripture, emphasizing the truth about baptism.

Faith Only Saves

Many believe faith alone secures salvation, without action. The speaker’s church emphasized faith, but they learned “real, obedient faith” is needed. James 2:24 corrects: “A person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” James 2:17 adds, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” Persuasively, faith without obedience is incomplete, as the speaker’s baptism shows (Mark 16:16).

Baptism Is Optional

Some view baptism as symbolic, not essential. The speaker’s church, with sacraments, may have implied this. Acts 2:38 refutes: “Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins.” 1 Peter 3:21 clarifies, “Baptism that now saves you… as a pledge of a clear conscience toward God.” The truth about baptism is immersion for forgiveness, as the speaker embraced. Persuasively, optional baptism risks incomplete salvation.

Saved Before Baptism

This error claims salvation precedes baptism. The speaker’s church taught infant baptism saved, but they realized “infant baptism” isn’t biblical. Acts 22:16 corrects: “Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away.” Romans 6:3-4 explains, “Baptized into his death… we too may live a new life.” The speaker’s “adult faith” rebuts this, emphasizing baptism’s role.

Sinner’s Prayer Saves

Catholics use confession, but the speaker’s church focused on rituals. Romans 10:9 (“If you declare… you will be saved”) is misused without repentance and baptism. Acts 8:36-38 corrects: “What prevents me from being baptized?” The eunuch’s baptism after belief shows the pattern. The speaker’s study rebuts this, as they “responded to Him on His terms.” Persuasively, prayer alone doesn’t replace God’s plan.

Universalism

Some believe all are saved, regardless of obedience. Matthew 7:21 corrects: “Only the one who does the will of my Father… will enter the kingdom.” The speaker’s realization—“Salvation comes through Jesus”—aligns with Acts 2:41, where obedience followed faith. Persuasively, only the obedient receive salvation.

Avoid misconceptions about grace. The truth about baptism and obedience lead to eternal life.

9. Real-Life Examples of Changed Lives 

Testimony 1: Maria’s Transformation

Maria, 35, grew up Catholic, participating in Mass and confession, believing rituals saved her. Like the speaker, who said, “I truly believed that I was right with God, that I was saved, because I was Catholic,” Maria trusted sacraments. A coworker’s question prompted her to read Acts 2:38 (“Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins”). Realizing sacraments weren’t biblical, she believed, repented, confessed, and was immersed, joining a Church of Christ. “Baptism gave me peace with God,” she shares. Her Christian testimony reflects a changed life through the gospel, now leading family Bible studies.

Testimony 2: Carlos’ Renewal

Carlos, 42, a Catholic father, relied on rosary prayers and Mass for salvation. The speaker’s words—“Why do I still feel empty?”—led him to Romans 10:9 (“If you declare… Jesus is Lord… you will be saved”). Seeing repentance and baptism required, Carlos repented, confessed faith, and was baptized, embracing a Church of Christ. “I found real faith,” he says, mentoring youth. His Christian testimony shows a changed life through the gospel, moving from traditions to obedience.

A Shared Path

Maria and Carlos mirror the speaker’s shift: “I made the decision to obey the gospel the way the Bible teaches.” Romans 6:4 promises, “We too may live a new life.” Both found purpose in Acts 2:47’s church, urging others to obey the gospel. Their lives show the power of moving beyond Catholic rituals to biblical salvation.

Will you let tradition hold you back, or obey the gospel, finding eternal peace like the speaker?

9. Real-Life Examples of Changed Lives 

Testimony 1: Maria’s Renewal

Maria, 38, grew up in a Catholic family, relying on sacraments for salvation. Like the speaker, who said, “I truly believed that I was right with God, that I was saved, because I was Catholic,” Maria trusted baptism and confession. A Bible study invited her to read Acts 2:38 (“Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins”). Realizing sacraments weren’t biblical, she believed, repented, confessed, and was immersed, joining a Church of Christ. “I found peace through Jesus, not rituals,” she shares. Her Christian testimony reflects a changed life through the gospel, now leading home Bible studies.

Testimony 2: Carlos’ Journey

Carlos, 45, a Catholic father, participated in Mass and rosary, feeling distant from God. The speaker’s words—“Why do I still feel empty?”—led him to Romans 10:9 (“If you declare… Jesus is Lord… you will be saved”). Seeing repentance and baptism required, Carlos repented, confessed faith, and was baptized, embracing a Church of Christ. “I responded to Him on His terms,” he says, mentoring youth. His Christian testimony shows a changed life through the gospel, moving from traditions to obedience.

A Shared Path

Maria and Carlos mirror the speaker’s shift: “I made the decision to obey the gospel the way the Bible teaches.” Romans 6:4 promises, “We too may live a new life.” Both found purpose in Acts 2:47’s church, urging others to obey the gospel. Their lives show the power of moving beyond Catholic rituals to biblical salvation.

Will you let tradition hold you back, or obey the gospel, finding eternal peace like the speaker?

10. Why Urgency Matters in Responding to the Gospel 

Life’s Fragility

Why postpone the most important decision? The urgency of salvation pulses through the speaker’s story: “Why do I still carry guilt, even after confession?” After trusting Catholic rituals, they “made the decision to obey the gospel the way the Bible teaches.” Scripture warns against delay, as life is fleeting. James 4:14 reminds us, “You do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” A young parent might plan to obey later, but unexpected events can change everything. Persuasively, life’s brevity demands immediate action, as the speaker’s baptism shows.

God’s Immediate Call

The Bible emphasizes today is the day for salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 states, “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” The speaker’s appeal—“Open your Bible. Read it with fresh eyes”—reflects this urgency. Hebrews 3:15 urges, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” Practically, read Acts 2:38 (“Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins”) now. A professional, trusting sacraments, might study Mark 16:16 and act today. Persuasively, God’s grace is available now—waiting risks missing it.

Obedience Demands Promptness

Do not delay obeying the gospel. The speaker’s shift—“I had to respond to Him on His terms”—aligns with Acts 8:36-38: “What prevents me from being baptized?” The eunuch’s immediate baptism shows no procrastination. Acts 2:41 records thousands baptized instantly. Hebrews 6:4-6 warns against falling away. Practically, believe, repent, confess, and be immersed now (Romans 6:3-4: “Baptized into his death… we too may live a new life”). A student, taught rituals save, might choose baptism after Acts 22:16 (“Wash your sins away”). Persuasively, delay hardens hearts, while obedience brings forgiveness.

Risks of Delay

Waiting endangers your soul. 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 warns of “everlasting destruction” for those who “do not obey the gospel.” The speaker’s realization—“Salvation doesn't come through a church system”—rebuts reliance on rituals. Matthew 7:21 states, “Only the one who does the will of my Father… will enter the kingdom.” A retiree, trusting confession, might delay baptism, risking judgment. Acts 4:12 affirms, “Salvation is found in no one else.” Persuasively, acting now ensures forgiveness through baptism, not sacraments.

A Call to Act

The urgency of salvation is undeniable. Romans 13:11 urges, “The hour has already come… salvation is nearer now.” The speaker’s obedience—“For the first time, I knew I had peace with God”—shows joy in acting promptly. Don’t wait—obey the gospel today, securing eternal life through Christ’s plan.

11. Questions to Ask Yourself After Watching 

Is your religious background enough for salvation? The speaker’s journey—“Why does God feel distant, even when I'm doing everything the church says?”—prompts examining your eternal destiny. These six questions, grounded in the Bible truth about salvation, guide reflection to ensure you’re saved God’s way.

1. Am I saved by traditions or the gospel?
   The speaker learned “salvation doesn't come through a church system.” Does your salvation align with Acts 2:38 (“Repent and be baptized”)?
2. Do I rely on sacraments over obedience?
   “No one can do that for you,” the speaker said. Are you trusting confession or Acts 3:19 (“Repent… so that your sins may be wiped out”)?
3. Have I truly believed in Jesus?
   The speaker “believed in Jesus” but lacked obedience. Do you trust His sacrifice (John 3:16)?
4. Have I repented of my sins?
   Luke 13:3 warns, “Unless you repent, you too will all perish.” Have you turned from sin?
5. Was my baptism biblical?
   The speaker realized “not infant baptism.” Were you immersed as a believer (Mark 16:16)?
6. Am I living faithfully?
   The speaker “responded to Him on His terms.” Are you faithful daily (Revelation 2:10)?

These questions challenge reliance on rituals. The Bible truth about salvation requires action, as the speaker found through Romans 6:3-4. A Catholic family member might reflect on infant baptism, study Acts 8:38, and choose obedience. Persuasively, Scripture is the standard. Will you examine your eternal destiny with the Bible truth about salvation, obeying the gospel to secure salvation?

12. Next Steps for Learning More 

Join a Bible Study

The speaker’s transformation—“I started reading… and it rocked me”—urges you to learn how to be saved. Join a free Bible study at AreUSaved.com to explore Acts 2:38 (“Repent and be baptized… for the forgiveness of your sins”). Online or local groups clarify the gospel’s steps, like faith, repentance, and baptism. The speaker studied Romans 10:9, moving from rituals to obedience. Persuasively, studying Scripture reveals God’s plan over sacraments.

Read More Articles

Dive into AreUSaved.com’s articles to learn how to be saved. The speaker discovered “salvation comes through Jesus… through faith, repentance, and baptism.” Articles explain why baptism is essential (1 Peter 3:21: “Baptism that now saves you”). Read weekly to understand the gospel. Persuasively, these resources guide you to truth, moving beyond rituals.

Contact Us

Have questions about salvation? The speaker “had to respond to Him on His terms” after study. Use AreUSaved.com’s chatbot or contact page for personalized guidance on Acts 8:38 (“What prevents me from being baptized?”). Ask about baptism or faith’s role. Persuasively, connecting with experts ensures clarity.

Act Now

The speaker’s urgency—“I’m thankful I saw the truth before it was too late”—calls for immediate action. Join a free Bible study, read articles, or reach out via AreUSaved.com’s chatbot or contact page. Study Mark 16:16 to obey the gospel. A retiree, trusting sacraments, might join a study, be baptized, and find purpose in a Church of Christ. Persuasively, acting now aligns you with God’s plan. Don’t wait—obey the gospel today, securing eternal life through Christ’s truth!

11. Questions to Ask Yourself After Watching

Alejandro's journey from trusting religious tradition to discovering Bible truth about salvation raises profound questions that every sincere seeker should consider. His story isn't just about leaving Catholicism—it's about examining whether what we've always believed actually aligns with God's Word.

Take a moment to honestly reflect on these questions:

Have you ever personally read what the Bible says about salvation, or have you only heard it interpreted through religious leaders? This isn't about disrespecting spiritual authority, but about taking personal responsibility for your eternal destiny. Alejandro discovered that many of his core beliefs about salvation weren't actually found in Scripture when he read it himself.

Are you relying on religious rituals, sacraments, or church membership for your salvation? Consider what gives you confidence before God. Is it your baptism as an infant? Your church attendance? Your good works? Or is it a personal faith response to Jesus Christ based on biblical teaching?

Do you experience genuine peace with God, or do you still carry guilt and uncertainty about your spiritual standing? Alejandro mentioned feeling empty despite following all the religious requirements. This persistent spiritual void often indicates we're missing something fundamental about our relationship with God.

If someone asked you "Am I saved?" what would you tell them? More importantly, how would you answer that question for yourself? Can you point to specific biblical passages that assure your salvation, or would you reference church traditions and teachings?

Have you made a conscious, personal decision to follow Christ according to biblical instruction? Salvation isn't inherited through family faith or achieved through childhood ceremonies. The New Testament consistently shows adults making deliberate choices to believe, repent, and be baptized.

Are you willing to examine your beliefs against Scripture, even if it means discovering you've been wrong? This requires tremendous humility. Alejandro had to admit that despite decades of sincere religious practice, he hadn't actually obeyed the gospel as the Bible presents it.

What's preventing you from studying the Bible independently to verify what you've been taught? Fear of what you might find? Loyalty to family tradition? Comfort with the familiar? Remember, if your beliefs are true, they'll withstand biblical scrutiny. If they're not, wouldn't you want to know?

These questions aren't meant to attack anyone's faith but to encourage the same honest examination that transformed Alejandro's life. Your eternal destiny is too important to leave unexamined.

12. Next Steps for Learning More

Alejandro's story might have stirred something within you—perhaps questions you've suppressed for years or doubts you've been afraid to voice. The beautiful truth is that God wants you to seek, question, and discover His truth for yourself.

Your journey toward biblical understanding doesn't have to be solitary. Just as Alejandro had a friend who challenged him to read Scripture independently, you can connect with others who are passionate about helping people learn how to be saved according to God's Word, not human tradition.

Here's how you can take meaningful steps forward:

Start with personal Bible reading. Open the book of Acts and observe how people in the early church responded to the gospel message. Notice the pattern: they heard, believed, repented, and were baptized. No infant sprinkling, no sacramental system—just sincere adults responding to God's call.

Join a free Bible study that focuses on understanding salvation from Scripture alone. Many communities offer studies specifically designed for those questioning traditional religious teachings. These aren't "anti-Catholic" or "anti-tradition" sessions, but rather opportunities to discover what the Bible actually teaches without denominational filters.

Connect with others on similar journeys. You're not alone in questioning whether religious tradition equals biblical truth. Thousands have walked this path before you, moving from uncertainty to confidence, from tradition to truth, from emptiness to genuine peace with God.

Take advantage of modern resources. The AreUSaved.com chatbot provides 24/7 access to biblical answers about salvation. No judgment, no pressure—just straightforward Scripture-based responses to your spiritual questions. Sometimes it's easier to explore these deep questions privately before discussing them with others.

Reach out for personal guidance. If Alejandro's story resonates with you, don't hesitate to contact us through our website. Real people who understand your background and concerns are ready to study with you, answer questions, and help you navigate this journey. This isn't about converting you to another denomination—it's about helping you understand and obey the gospel as presented in Scripture.

Document your discoveries. As you begin studying, write down what you're learning. Compare what you've always believed with what you're reading in the Bible. This process helps clarify your thoughts and tracks your spiritual growth.

Remember, seeking biblical truth isn't betraying your heritage or disrespecting your family. It's taking personal responsibility for your relationship with God. Alejandro still loves his family and respects his cultural background—he simply refuses to let tradition supersede biblical truth.

The most important step? Start today. Don't let another day pass wondering if you're truly right with God. Your eternal destiny deserves immediate attention. Whether through our free Bible study resources, the AreUSaved.com chatbot, or personal contact with our team, take that first step toward biblical clarity.

God's Word is clear, accessible, and life-changing. Like Alejandro discovered, when you read it for yourself—without the filter of human tradition—you'll find answers to questions you've carried for years.

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