InstaStudy

The Way of Salvation

A study of the biblical path to salvation.

1. Repentance: Turning to God

1.1 The Nature of Repentance

Verses: Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Luke 13:3
  • Repentance involves a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin.
  • It is a necessary condition for receiving forgiveness and experiencing salvation.
  • True repentance produces a change in behavior and a desire to live righteously.

1.2 Confession and Remorse

Verses: Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9; Psalm 51:3-4
  • Repentance is not merely feeling sorry for sin, but a deliberate turning away from it.
  • It requires acknowledging our sins before God and seeking His forgiveness.
  • Confession of sins should be specific and honest, demonstrating genuine remorse.

2. Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

2.1 The Significance of Baptism

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Romans 6:3-4
  • Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change, a public declaration of faith.
  • The early church consistently baptized new believers in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • It is an act of obedience to Christ's command and a symbol of identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.

2.2 The Mode and Formula of Baptism

Verses: Colossians 2:12; Acts 19:5; Acts 2:38
  • Baptism is to be administered by immersion, symbolizing the believer's death to sin and resurrection to new life.
  • The correct formula for baptism is in the name of Jesus Christ, as practiced by the apostles.
  • This name represents the fullness of the Godhead.

3. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

3.1 The Promise and Evidence

Verses: Acts 1:5; Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46
  • The baptism of the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience from water baptism, empowering believers for service.
  • It is evidenced by speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
  • This experience is a fulfillment of prophecy and a sign of God's presence in the believer's life.

3.2 The Purpose and Availability

Verses: Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11; Luke 11:13
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live a life of holiness and witness for Christ.
  • It provides spiritual gifts for the edification of the church and the advancement of the gospel.
  • The baptism of the Holy Spirit is available to all who believe and ask in faith.

4. Living a Life of Holiness

4.1 The Process of Sanctification

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 6:22; 2 Corinthians 7:1
  • Salvation is not merely a one-time event, but a lifelong journey of sanctification.
  • Holiness is a process of being conformed to the image of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
  • It involves separating ourselves from sin and pursuing righteousness in all areas of life.

4.2 The Pursuit of Righteousness

Verses: Titus 2:11-12; Galatians 5:16; Philippians 4:8
  • Holiness is not legalism, but a genuine desire to please God and live according to His will.
  • It requires discipline, self-control, and a commitment to studying and obeying God's Word.
  • We must rely on the grace of God to overcome temptation and live a life that is pleasing to Him.