Romans 10:13, “For whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord, shall be saved.”

This verse is among those that are often referred to as the Roman Road of Salvation. It is a powerful verse that shows that everyone can be saved. But the Bible draws a distinction between those who merely call Him Lord and those who truly make Him the Lord of their life. Matthew 7:21 makes that abundantly clear. Something more than words is required; it’s doing the Father’s will, it’s truly making Jesus our Lord.

The word for “Lord” in the New Testament comes from the Greek word “Kyrios.” In the Mediterranean world, someone with power and authority over others was called a “lord” or “master.” In the New Testament, Jesus is addressed or referred to as “Lord” more than 700 times.

Jesus is addressed as “Lord” in two ways. First, He is called “Lord” in the same way as He is often called “Rabbi” or “Teacher” when someone asks Him a question or requests healing, more along the lines of showing respect. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, however, calling him “Lord” takes on much greater meaning. It signifies that Jesus is God himself. It signifies that God the Father has given Jesus all authority over heaven and earth. And, ultimately, it looks ahead to the day when “Every tongue will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:11)

Calling Jesus “Lord” is a complete surrender of our lives to Him. It’s not our will, but His. Where He leads me, I will follow. I serve Him out of love and gratitude for what He has already done, and for what is yet to be. Some arrogantly say they will never bow the knee or confess, but one day they will. Only on that day, it will be too late. Today is the day of salvation. I beg of you, don’t wait too late to accept Him as your Lord. He will not reject you if you will only ask, repent, believe, and turn from sin.