Can Salvation Be Lost?
An exploration of the scriptures to understand the security of salvation.
1. The Nature of Salvation
1.1 Salvation as a Gift and a Process
Verses: Ephesians 2:8-9; Acts 2:38; 2 Corinthians 5:17
- Salvation is a gift from God, not earned through works.
- It is received through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit with the initial sign of speaking in other tongues.
- This experience is a transformative event, marking a new beginning in Christ.
1.2 Repentance and Obedience
Verses: Acts 3:19; 1 John 2:3-6; Romans 6:22
- Salvation involves a change of heart and mind, turning away from sin.
- It is demonstrated through obedience to God's Word and a life of holiness.
- This new life is empowered by the Holy Spirit.
2. Warnings Against Apostasy
2.1 Biblical Admonitions
Verses: Hebrews 6:4-6; Hebrews 10:26-27; 2 Peter 2:20-22
- The scriptures contain warnings against turning away from the faith.
- These warnings highlight the importance of perseverance and holding fast to what we have received.
- They serve as a reminder of the seriousness of our commitment to Christ.
2.2 The Nature of Apostasy
Verses: 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:3; Jude 1:4
- Apostasy involves a deliberate rejection of Christ and a return to a life of sin.
- It is a conscious decision to abandon the truth and embrace falsehood.
- This can result in spiritual destruction.
3. The Security of the Believer
3.1 God's Keeping Power
Verses: John 10:28-29; Ephesians 1:13-14; 1 Peter 1:5
- God's love and power are sufficient to keep us from falling.
- We are sealed with the Holy Spirit, guaranteeing our inheritance.
- However, this security is conditional upon our continued faith and obedience.
3.2 Abiding in Christ
Verses: John 15:4-7; Colossians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:22
- We must actively abide in Christ, allowing His Word to dwell in us richly.
- We must remain vigilant, resisting temptation and pursuing holiness.
- We must depend on the Holy Spirit to empower us to live a life pleasing to God.
4. The Role of Free Will
4.1 Choice and Responsibility
Verses: Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Galatians 6:7-8
- God has given us the freedom to choose to follow Him or to turn away.
- Our choices have consequences, both positive and negative.
- We are responsible for our own spiritual well-being.
4.2 Cooperation with God's Grace
Verses: Revelation 3:20; 2 Corinthians 6:1; Philippians 2:12-13
- While God desires that all be saved, He will not force anyone to believe.
- We must willingly submit to His will and allow Him to work in our lives.
- Our salvation is a partnership between God's grace and our response of faith.