“We’ve all sinned.”
And that’s the truth.
There is no perfect human being on earth.
We’ve all made bad decisions at one point in our lives.
While some may have committed grievous sins like fornication, adultery, or murder.
Others may just have lied, gotten drunk, or hated their neighbor.
If we tell ourselves the truth, we have fallen short of God’s glory in one way or another.
But there is a way back to God- Repentance.
Repentance is total remorse for one’s wrongdoing.
That is, acknowledging your wrong steps and be willing to make a change to your mindset and ways.
For most of my adulthood, I have lived in sin.
I have cheated, lied, gotten drunk several times, hated some of my friends, and committed fornication indiscriminately.
At some point, I did wonder if God would receive me back into his fold.
But here am I today, telling you that God is glad that you are saved.
Peter said, “He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
So, don’t fret.
Christ is always available to receive us into his fold.
If we have sinned against him, he is willing to wash us clean through his word.
There are several come as you are bible verses that can inspire you.
This means that God is willing to completely set you free from all your transgressions if you’ve decided to repent.
And that’s because of his love for us.
Still not sure of God’s love? Read this article.
Recommended for you
- Powerful Prayer For Forgiveness Of Sins Against Others
- 10 Bible Verse About Homosexuality
- Bible verses about Turning Your life around
- Bible Verses about Changing from Bad to Good
Come As You Are Bible Verses
There are several bible verses that demonstrate Christ is willing to accept us as we are and redeem our souls.
First of all, you must accept that you’ve done something wrong.
Next,
You must ask God to forgive you for all you’ve done.
After that, you must run away from sin because God hates when we continue to sin.
Here are ten Bible verses to encourage you to return to him.
And yes, he will make your soul clean again.
1. Matthew 11:28-29
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls
Imagine feeling weary, drained from life’s pressures. I’ve been there, and perhaps you are right now. But good news awaits. It’s an open invitation, offered freely: “Come as you are.” It demands no masks, no perfection. It’s extended by Jesus Christ.
Matthew 11:28-29 records Jesus’ words. “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened…you will find rest for your souls.” The ‘all’ includes everyone. Past or present state is irrelevant.
But why heed His call? The answer lies in who Jesus is. The scripture highlights His understanding and accepting nature. Jesus teaches us, regardless of our flaws. His humility and gentleness shine through, assuring us that we can approach Him without hesitation.
Scriptures like Jeremiah 31:25, where God refreshes the weary, and Psalm 62:1, where David finds solace in God, echo the message of Matthew 11:28-29. God provides rest, open to all.
To help grasp this concept, let’s peek into a timeless parable Jesus told – the story of the Prodigal Son. A young man who had squandered his inheritance returns home, weary, broken, and remorseful.
Rather than scolding or rejecting him, the father embraces and rejoices over his son’s return. The father’s acceptance of his lost son illustrates the “come as you are” posture of God towards us.
Think about a real-life scenario: A recovering addict walks into a church. They are racked with guilt, ridden with shame, and afraid of judgment.
But instead of judgment, they find a community embodying Christ’s invitation to come as you are. They find acceptance. They find support. They find hope. They find solace in their faith, a critical asset in their recovery journey.
Answering Jesus’ call doesn’t require perfection. It requires a willing heart, ready to change. Yes, life can be challenging. Burdens can be heavy. But Jesus offers a solution. He invites us to come as we are, assuring us that in Him, we find rest.
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember this: Jesus extends a personal invitation to you. He says, “Come.” Will you respond?
2. Revelation 22:17
The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life
“Come as you are,” whispers a divine invitation, permeating the boundaries of the human heart. The clarion call can be traced back to Revelation 22:17, extending a welcome to all, regardless of past or present.
This verse emphasizes God’s grace and salvation, offered freely. The ‘water of life’ represents this divine gift, offered to quench our spiritual thirst. We are not required to earn it; it’s a testament to God’s boundless generosity.
The metaphor of water is poignant, depicting our collective yearning for acceptance, purpose, and love. Herein lies the brilliance of Revelation’s message. It connects our deepest desires with the divine gift – making the invitation not only personal but profoundly relatable.
Jesus’ words from John 7:37-38 resonate with this metaphor. He extends an invitation to drink from the spiritual spring, echoing God’s promise in Isaiah 44:3. Throughout the scriptures, the consistent message is clear – God invites us to “come as we are.”
Take, for instance, Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4:1-26. She was a social outcast, yet Jesus offered her acceptance and salvation. This narrative reiterates that our past and status are inconsequential to God’s call.
Let’s look at a real-life scenario – a homeless individual, laden with struggles, welcomed into a church service. Here, they receive spiritual and material support, free from judgment. The ‘come as you are’ ethos radiates in this act of acceptance and love.
Revelation 22:17 bestows on us the responsibility of response. God has extended the invitation, but the next move lies with us. We are free to accept or reject, emphasizing the personal nature of faith.
In essence, the invitation of “come as you are” is a proclamation of God’s unconditional love. It’s a call to embrace our authentic selves and our spiritual thirst. The ‘water of life’ is waiting, open to all who choose to accept it. In the grand symphony of divine love, the invitation is playing – the question is, will we dance to its tune?
3. Isaiah 55:1-3
“Come, all you who are thirsty,
come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without cost.
2 Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and you will delight in the richest of fare.
3 Give ear and come to me;
listen, that you may live.
I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
my faithful love promised to David.
In life’s journey, we often reach intersections where physical and spiritual needs collide. Here, Isaiah 55:1-3 offers a comforting promise. It portrays God’s readiness to cater to our needs, no matter our financial state.
Imagine arriving at a feast, thirsty and hungry. The best part? Everything is free. This is the gist of Isaiah 55:1-3. It’s God’s assurance to meet both our physical and spiritual needs.
God understands our innate neediness. As Matthew 5:6 affirms, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness shall be filled. It’s heartwarming to know that God recognizes our longing and ensures its fulfillment.
John 4:14 further expands on this. Jesus promises the Samaritan woman water that forever quenches thirst. This promise illustrates the spiritual satisfaction inherent in Isaiah’s message.
Consider the biblical account of Jesus feeding the five thousand in Matthew 14:13-21. It’s a remarkable illustration of God’s unlimited provision. Jesus, moved with compassion, not only met their spiritual needs with His teachings but also miraculously catered to their physical hunger.
This act was a testament to God’s provision mentioned in Isaiah 55. It showed that everyone, regardless of status, was welcome to partake in the blessings of the Lord. The precondition wasn’t to be perfect or rich; it was simply to come.
In a similar vein, I’ve seen food banks that operate on the same principle. They don’t ask for your bank statement or social status. They just welcome you. They understand that people go through tough times, and they’re ready to assist, no questions asked.
Much like our Heavenly Father, these food banks meet people at their point of need. This is a living, breathing representation of Isaiah 55:1-3 in today’s world.
Isaiah 55:1-3 encourages us to seek God while He’s near. So, no matter your state, answer this divine call. God is ready to satisfy your physical and spiritual needs. All He asks is that you come as you are.
In a world where price tags are ubiquitous, the idea of God’s free love and provision is refreshing. His table is always set, His arms always open. It’s about who we can become in Him, not who we have been. So, let’s accept His loving invitation, remembering that our state doesn’t disqualify us from God’s grace.
4. 1 Peter 4:3-4
For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4 They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you
In our human narrative, everyone has a past, often spotted with errors and missteps. The Apostle Peter, in 1 Peter 4:3-4, doesn’t shy away from this reality. He acknowledges our past, laden with worldly desires, and yet offers an invitation to transformation.
Have you ever pondered, “Am I too flawed for Christ?” A tax collector named Matthew might have thought the same (Matthew 9:9-13). Known for corruption, his past was far from perfect. But Jesus called him, and Matthew responded, leaving his old ways behind. The message here? Everyone is welcome at Christ’s table.
Peter urges believers to discard their former habits. He advocates for a new, godly lifestyle, similar to Paul’s counsel in Ephesians 4:22-24.
Here, Paul speaks of exchanging the old self for the new, mirroring God in righteousness and holiness. This is the transformation Peter speaks about, the metamorphosis that follows answering Christ’s call.
However, this change isn’t without challenges. Choosing God’s path sets us apart. The world might jeer, reject, or discriminate. Peter prepares believers for such ridicule. He confirms that choosing a godly life is a worthwhile endeavor.
Brian ‘Head’ Welch, former lead guitarist for the band Korn, epitomizes a transformation from a life of substance abuse and lawlessness to faith. Once estranged from spirituality, he chose a new path, facing significant backlash but finding acceptance within a church community.
Today, he uses his story to inspire others, embodying the message of Romans 12:2 and the power of the invitation to “come as you are.”
So, what’s your narrative? Know that in Christ, your past isn’t your identity. He invites you to transformation, to a new life. His call to ‘Come As You Are’ echoes across time and space. It’s an assurance of acceptance and change. Answer His call today, and experience a life that transcends ridicule and embraces glory.
5. Isaiah 1:18
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool
Picture this: A Father, full of understanding and love, invites you to approach. He sees your flaws, your missteps, yet His arms are open wide. “Come as you are,” He says. This is the essence of Isaiah 1:18, portraying a divine dialogue assuring us that our imperfections don’t hinder our place with Him.
This promise echoes in Psalm 51:7, where King David, after committing grave sins, seeks purification. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean,” he says, demonstrating faith in God’s power to cleanse. Here, David comes as he is, guilt-ridden but trusting. This trust, I believe, is what God asks of us, too.
Turning to 1 John 1:9, we further understand this ‘come as you are’ concept. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” it states. The key here is confession. It doesn’t require us to rectify our wrongs first, but to admit them and let God cleanse us.
Remember the thief on the cross alongside Jesus in Luke 23:39-43? His life was far from perfect. He was condemned, both by society and by law. And yet, in his last moments, he dared to come as he was.
What was Jesus’ response? Acceptance. Forgiveness. A promise of paradise. I can’t stress the importance of this example enough. It emphasizes that it’s never too late to turn to God. No sin is too grave, no past too stained.
Isaiah 1:18 remains a testament to God’s boundless mercy. It signifies that God’s door is open to all. It emphasizes that our past doesn’t define us in His eyes. Most importantly, it highlights God’s readiness to cleanse and restore us. All it takes is the courage to approach Him, just as we are.
6. Romans 6:1-3
What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?
“Come as you are” is a profound call. Yet, it beckons us not to stay as we are but to embrace transformation. This concept is eloquently illustrated in Romans 6:1-3.
Here, Paul challenges us. “Shall we persist in sin so grace may abound?” he asks. The resounding answer is no. Grace, in this context, is not a license to sin. Rather, it’s a transformative force, inviting change.
Take Paul’s life for instance. Known as Saul (Acts 9:1-19), he was an ardent persecutor of Christians. Yet, grace intervened. Transformed by Christ, he became an influential apostle. If grace could change Saul, it can do the same for us.
Grace sets us on a spiritual journey. It leads us through a death to sin and a resurrection into a new life. Galatians 2:20 illustrates this beautifully, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” We give up our sinful selves, and in exchange, we receive Christ’s righteousness.
Our new identity is then found in Christ, as revealed in Colossians 3:3: “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” This newness of life is the promise of accepting Christ’s call. But, it also carries a responsibility – the responsibility not to remain in our old ways.
Thus, “come as you are” is more than an invitation. It’s a call to transformation. It’s an open door, leading us from our past into a new life in Christ. It’s an offer to become what we were always meant to be – children of God, embodying Christ’s righteousness.
In sum, the call to “come as you are” isn’t static. It’s dynamic, driving us towards profound transformation. It’s the transformative power of grace, guiding us into a new identity in Christ.
7. James 4:8-9
Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Picture yourself standing before a grand canyon. The other side calls to you, yet the gap is vast. Suddenly, a bridge appears. You’re invited to cross. This is the essence of James 4:8-9.
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” This profound verse extends an invitation for two-way interaction with God. Just as Deuteronomy 4:29 confirms, God reciprocates our sincere search for Him. This mutual commitment makes the relationship with God feel less daunting and more like a companionship with a trustworthy friend.
The tale of Zacchaeus, a tax collector labeled a sinner, is an apt biblical illustration. He desired to see Jesus, and he didn’t allow societal disapproval to deter him. In return, Jesus accepted him, leading to Zacchaeus’ repentance.
This interaction highlights the power of personal commitment, underscoring the significance of sincerity in our relationship with God.
Imagine someone attending a church gathering for the first time. Despite a past mired in sin, they find acceptance, not judgment, mirroring the acceptance Zacchaeus received. This example emphasizes that God’s presence is available to all, irrespective of past misdeeds.
But the invitation to “come as you are” comes with a caveat: authenticity. The passage prompts self-examination, aligning with Jeremiah 24:7, which promises a heart to know God. To draw near to God, one must be ready to forsake sinful ways, showcasing a genuine desire for transformation.
Remember, this divine invitation doesn’t depend on your past but on your willingness to change. You’re not required to be perfect to embark on this journey.
Rather, you’re invited to step forward as you are, knowing that each step towards God prompts a corresponding step from Him. This mutual advance sets the stage for transformation.
So, accept the invitation. Cross the bridge. Your journey towards spiritual growth awaits.
8. John 6:37
All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away
John 6:37 is a central thread in the Bible’s narrative. It offers a message of welcome – an open-arms invitation from Christ. This verse encapsulates the gospel’s core, stating, “All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away.”
This message is universal. It invites everyone, regardless of their past, to approach Christ. This inclusive aspect is the hallmark of Jesus’ teachings. The fear of rejection is innate to all of us. Yet, this verse dispels that fear. It provides assurance that none will face rejection in Christ’s presence.
Security is another promise offered in this verse. When we answer Christ’s call, we are stepping into a fortress. A stronghold that stands the test of time. Within these walls, we find an everlasting refuge.
Jesus does not merely invite us into this fortress. He promises to stand with us, guarding us from threats. As He attests in John 10:28-29, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
Even if our past is shadowed by missteps, we have a secure place in Christ. Romans 8:38-39 affirms this, declaring that nothing can separate us from God’s love. This profound promise extends to all believers, unconditionally.
An excellent biblical example of this is found in Mark 5:1-20. A man possessed by an evil spirit, an outcast, receives healing from Jesus. This action underscores Christ’s welcoming nature. No prerequisites were placed on this man before he received Christ’s grace.
In summary, John 6:37 is a threefold blessing: an invitation, a promise, and reassurance. It depicts Jesus with open arms, inviting us to come to Him. He does not expect perfection or self-correction before approaching Him. He simply asks us to come.
In response to this invitation, we can find security and a sense of belonging in Christ. Thus, we are all welcome to come as we are.
9. 1 Timothy 1:15-16
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life
Let’s unravel 1 Timothy 1:15-16. In it, we encounter Paul, a former Christian persecutor. His transformation into an apostle broadcasts a compelling message: God’s love can change anyone.
Remember Rahab, a woman whose profession condemned her in society’s eyes. However, faith, not her past, was her lifeline in the end. She sheltered spies, showed faith in God, and this act of courage spared her life.
God’s plan for Rahab went beyond redemption; it was about inclusion. She later appeared in Christ’s lineage, demonstrating God’s expansive, inclusive love.
These narratives kindle hope. They affirm that God’s patience is limitless, a promise of an everlasting wait. Regardless of how dark our past may be, the door to His grace always remains open.
Romans 5:8 sends a profound reminder: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This means grace is available to everyone. You don’t have to earn it. It’s given freely.
Ephesians 2:4-5 highlights the transformative nature of grace. It underscores that God’s mercy, coupled with His immense love, revives us, despite our past mistakes. God’s grace, not our actions, is our salvation – a universal offer for a brighter future.
I urge you to consider this: God’s grace is inclusive, unrestricted, and infinitely patient. If Paul and Rahab found acceptance, so can we. Let’s step over the self-imposed barriers of guilt and sin and embrace the reality of God’s mercy.
No one is beyond God’s mercy. No one is too sinful or too lost. His grace is an open invitation. Come as you are. Discover love so transformative it promises change. This is the core of ‘Come As You Are.’ It’s an invitation to experience the depth of God’s unfathomable love.
10. Micah 6:6-8
With what shall I come before the Lordand bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,with calves a year old?Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression,the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercyand to walk humbly with your God.
The principle of “Come As You Are” is deeply rooted in the Bible, particularly in the book of Micah (Micah 6:6-8). Here, God emphasizes that He values our genuine character over ostentatious offerings. Instead of elaborate rituals or sizable donations, God is more concerned with the sincerity of our hearts.
This notion is mirrored in 1 Samuel 15:22, where obedience trumps sacrifice. It’s not about our ability to perform religious rituals, but our willingness to abide by God’s Word. As followers, we must align our actions with God’s instructions.
A perfect example of this is David’s story. Despite committing grave sins, including adultery and murder, David was still acknowledged as a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22).
This was due to his genuine repentance and his heart’s attunement to God. He exemplified the mindset of ‘coming as you are’, and was revered for his heartfelt sincerity.
The directive in Micah 6:6-8 does not simply invite us to be static in our flaws. It encourages us to undergo a transformative process in God’s presence. It charges us with the duty to advocate for justice, to act kindly, and to walk humbly with God.
Similarly, Hosea 6:6 echoes God’s desire for steadfast love over sacrifice, and the knowledge of God over burnt offerings. It reiterates that our faith should be a sincere reflection of our love for God, not a theatrical performance.
In summary, “Come As You Are” is a divine invitation to authenticity and moral integrity. God accepts us as we are, without pretenses. Yet, He also inspires transformation towards mirroring His values.
So, I extend this invitation to you. Come as you are, encounter a God who welcomes you, and embrace the transformative journey towards a more divine reflection of self.
Recommended for you
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase “come as you are” mean in the context of Psalm?
The phrase “come as you are,” in relation to the Psalms, embodies an open invitation to approach God with sincerity and transparency.
Psalm 51:17 encapsulates this message, highlighting that God values a contrite heart over pretentious offerings. Hence, the Psalms encourage us to present ourselves before God, warts and all.
What is the “come as you are” Bible verse in the King James Version (KJV)?
In the King James Version (KJV), there isn’t a direct “come as you are” verse. But, Matthew 11:28 encapsulates this sentiment, representing a call from Jesus to all burdened souls to find rest in Him.
What is the “come as you are” Bible verse in the New International Version (NIV)?
The New International Version (NIV) doesn’t feature an exact “come as you are” verse either. Nonetheless, Revelation 22:17 embodies this notion, extending a divine invitation to everyone to partake of God’s blessings, regardless of their circumstances.
Is there a Bible verse that expresses God’s acceptance of you as you are?
Several scriptures affirm God’s acceptance of us as we are. A noteworthy example is Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” It underscores God’s unconditional love, affirming His acceptance of us even amidst our sins.
Is there a scripture in the New King James Version (NKJV) that talks about “coming as you are”?
The New King James Version (NKJV) may not house a precise “come as you are” verse, but Isaiah 55:1 encapsulates the concept.
This scripture extends a universal invitation to experience God’s grace, without regard for one’s personal shortcomings.
How would you define the concept of “coming as you are” in a biblical context?
The concept of “coming as you are” in a biblical context suggests approaching God in our authentic state, irrespective of our shortcomings. It emphasizes honesty and transparency with God, reiterating His boundless love and grace.
What does it mean to come as you are?
In essence, “come as you are” invites us to approach God in our true form, without striving for pretense or perfection. It’s an open call to accept God’s love and mercy, in spite of our flaws. It also emphasizes that transformation is a divine process commencing once we present ourselves honestly before God.
Where does it say in the Bible to come to me as you are?
Though not quoted verbatim, the spirit of “come to me as you are” pervades the Bible. Matthew 11:28 exemplifies this concept, where Jesus offers rest to the weary and burdened, implying we can approach God in all our imperfections.
Akatakpo Dunn
Dr. Akatakpo Dunn is a dedicated follower of Christ, an active member and speaker, and an ongoing learner of the Scriptures. Passionate about his faith and serving others, he is committed to sharing his spiritual journey and insights to inspire and uplift fellow believers. He has been active in the church for more than 23 years. Through The Faithful Christian Blog, Dr. Dunn combines his love for God, philanthropy, and Scripture, providing a valuable resource for those seeking to grow in their faith. Follow me: on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Gabriel
Friday 10th of March 2023
It's "funny" how many people claim this phrase is written in the Bible, when in fact it isn't. But there is an interesting thing about it. I decided to write about that too: https://thebiblicalwriter.com/3-truths-about-come-to-me-as-you-are-in-the-bible
Robert Wilkins
Tuesday 28th of June 2022
Prayers for me & my family!