4. Understanding Eternal Security
Understanding how the penalty of sin came into the world, and how we became sinners, will help us understand what we have been saved from and what we have been saved for. Therefore we are going to have a close look at Genisis.
Disclaimer: This is not Calvinism. (click on the link below for details)
Examining Concerns: Why We Dispute Calvinism as a True Doctrine
Introduction
Calvinism, a theological framework attributed to the teachings of John Calvin, has been a subject of intense theological discussions and debates within the Christian community. While many embrace Calvinism as a valid interpretation of Scripture, however we assert that it is a false doctrine and a false gorspel and the follow a false Christ. This article aims to explore some common concerns raised by critics against Calvinism.
- Limited Atonement:
One key tenet of Calvinism is the doctrine of limited atonement, suggesting that Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice was specifically intended for the elect. This perspective limits the universality of God’s grace and challenges the biblical notion of God’s desire for the salvation of all (1 Timothy 2:3-4). They emphasize verses that speak of God’s love for the entire world, questioning the exclusivity implied by limited atonement.
- Unconditional Election:
Calvinism teaches the concept of unconditional election, asserting that God chooses individuals for salvation without any consideration of their actions or beliefs. This perspective is incompatible with the biblical emphasis on human responsibility and choice. However we point to passages that speak of God’s desire for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9) and the invitation for all people to believe in Christ (John 3:16)’ This is a tension with the unconditional election doctrine.
- Irresistible Grace:
The doctrine of irresistible grace in Calvinism posits that God’s grace is efficacious and cannot be resisted by those predestined for salvation. Critics express concerns about the potential implications of this doctrine, as it seems to negate the idea of genuine free will. They highlight biblical passages that speak of people resisting God’s will and the importance of human response to God’s grace.
- Double Predestination:
Calvinism teaches the concept of double predestination, suggesting that God not only predestines some for salvation but also predestines others for damnation. Critics find this doctrine challenging, as it raises questions about God’s fairness and justice. They emphasize passages that speak of God’s desire for all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4) and the offer of salvation to everyone, proving the concept of double predestination is a false doctrine.
Conclusion
While Calvinism has a rich theological history and has been embraced by many within the Christian tradition, however, it is not a biblical doctrine. Calvinism as a false doctrine as it raises concerns about the implications of its doctrines on the character of God, the universality of grace, and the compatibility with biblical teachings on human responsibility. The ongoing theological discussions reflect the complexity of interpreting Scripture and the diverse perspectives which create false converts within the broader Christian community.
Why a true believer in Christ cannot become lost again, after salvation
A true believer in Christ cannot lose their salvation, often referred to as the doctrine of “eternal security” or “perseverance of the saints,” is a prominent truth according to scripture. This is derived from a variety of biblical passages and theological principles. As we have clearly seen from scripture, Yeshua died for the penalty of Adams sin, not just our personal sin. Our personal sin is the result or evidence, of inheriting Adams sin.
Here’s why many Bible believing Christians hold to this truth
- The Unconditional Nature of God’s Promises: According to scripture, God’s promises of salvation are unconditional and not based on human performance. Once an individual places their faith in Jesus Christ, they are eternally secure because their salvation from the penalty of Adams sin is rooted in God’s faithfulness, not their own actions. John 10:28 (NASB) emphasises the security of believers: “and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.”
- The Work of Christ: The work of Jesus Christ on the cross is sufficient to fully atone for the sins of believers. Because of Christ’s perfect sacrifice, there is no condemnation for those who are in Him (Romans 8:1, NASB). Therefore, no sin can separate a believer from God’s love or revoke their salvation.
- The Seal of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit seals believers as a guarantee of their future inheritance. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NASB) supports this idea: “In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.”
- God’s Faithfulness: The faithfulness of God to complete the work He has started in believers. Philippians 1:6 (NASB) reinforces this concept: “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus.”
- The Assurance of Faith: The doctrine of eternal security also emphasises that the assurance of salvation is essential for believers to live with confidence and to grow in their relationship with God. Fear of losing your salvation will hinder a believer’s spiritual growth and joy and rob them of God’s grace principle.
- Knowing who’s sin we have been saved from when we are Born Again will shape how we interpret other scriptures. It is important to understand how we became a sinner, and who’s sin bought eternal damnation to all the world. When we get a hold of this truth, we will get a deeper revelation of what we have been saved from, and why it was not our sin that separated us from God. When we understand that it was not our sin that gave us the penalty of sin, we can get a better understanding of why it’s not our sin that separates us from the love of God after salvation from the penalty of Adam’s sin. Romans 5:10-14
The Foundation
This is just a basic understanding of what it means to be Eternally Secure in Christ. It’s important to note that while the doctrine of “Christ alone” is a foundational belief within Protestantism, the interpretation and emphasis on this doctrine may vary amongst different Protestant denominations and theological traditions. However, the core idea remains consistent: that salvation is found exclusively through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
Ephesians 2:8-10 NASB: by grace you have been saved through faith;
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; [9] not a result of works, so that no one may boast. [10] For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
Saved By Grace Alone
In the Bible, “grace” is a fundamental concept that carries profound theological and spiritual significance. It refers to the unmerited favour, kindness, and love of God toward humanity. Grace is often associated with God’s willingness to forgive, save, and bless people despite their unworthiness or sinfulness.
Several key aspects of grace in the Bible include:
- Unmerited Favour: Grace is often described as unmerited favour, meaning that it is given freely by God and cannot be earned or deserved. Ephesians 2:8-9 is a well-known verse that highlights this aspect: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
- Forgiveness and Salvation: Grace is the means by which God forgives and redeems people. It is through God’s grace that individuals can be reconciled with Him and experience salvation. Romans 3:24 emphasises this: “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”
- Empowerment and Strength: Grace is not only about forgiveness but also about God’s empowering presence in the life of a believer. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, the apostle Paul writes, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” This indicates that God’s grace provides strength and sustenance in times of weakness.
- God’s Love and Compassion: Grace is an expression of God’s deep love and compassion for humanity. It signifies God’s willingness to extend His hand of mercy and love even to those who may have fallen short of His standards. Ephesians 2:4-5 states, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.”
- Sufficiency: Grace is often seen as sufficient to meet all of humanity’s spiritual needs. This is reflected in 2 Corinthians 9:8: “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”
Overall, grace is a central theme in the Bible, illustrating God’s generosity, compassion, and willingness to extend His love and favour to those who seek Him. It is a cornerstone of Christian theology and a source of great hope and comfort for believers.
Through Faith Alone
According to the Bible, specifically the doctrine of “faith alone” as articulated in the context of scripture, the phrase “faith alone” emphasises that a person is justified before God and receives salvation solely through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from any human works or merit. This doctrine is central to Biblical theology and is often summarised with the Latin phrase “sola fide,” which means “by faith alone.”
While the term “faith alone” may not be explicitly found in the Bible, it is derived from passages like the following:
- Romans 10:17-18 NASB: So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. [18] But I say, surely they have never heard, have they? Faith is a gift that comes from hearing the Gospel.
- Ephesians 2:8-9 (NASB): “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.” This passage emphasises that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith, and not something earned through works.
- Romans 3:28 (NASB): “For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the Law.” This verse underscores that justification, the act of being declared righteous before God, is based on faith, not on adherence to the works of the Mosaic Law.
- Galatians 2:16 (NASB): “nevertheless knowing that a person is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified.” This verse reiterates the idea that justification comes through faith in Christ, not through the works of the Law.
The interpretation of “faith alone” affirms that salvation is a free gift of God’s grace and is received by faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. It excludes human works or merit as a basis for salvation. While good works are seen as important in the Christian life, they are regarded as a fruit or result of genuine faith rather than a means of earning salvation.
In Christ Alone
In the context of Biblical theology, the phrase “saved by Christ alone” emphasises the truth that salvation is exclusively and entirely the work of Jesus Christ, and it cannot be achieved or obtained through any other means or human efforts. This doctrine is central to a Biblical understanding of salvation and is often expressed using the Latin phrase “sola Christus” or “Christ alone.”
While the specific phrase “saved by Christ alone” may not appear in the Bible, it is derived from various passages and teachings in the New Testament that emphasise the unique role of Jesus Christ as the Saviour of humanity. Here are some key passages that contribute to the understanding of salvation by Christ alone, as found in Scripture:
- Acts 4:12 (NASB): “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given amongst people by which we must be saved.” This verse underscores the exclusivity of Christ as the source of salvation.
- John 14:6 (NASB): “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.'” Jesus’ statement highlights that He is the sole means by which individuals can have access to God the Father.
- 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NASB): “For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony at the proper time.” This passage emphasises the unique role of Jesus Christ as the mediator and the one who gave Himself as a ransom for humanity.
Being saved by Christ alone means that salvation is wholly dependent on one’s faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Saviour, and the only means of reconciliation with God. It excludes any reliance on human works, religious rituals, or any other intermediary for salvation. Faith in Christ alone is the central and indispensable element of a Biblical understanding of salvation.
It’s important to note that while the doctrine of “Christ alone” is a foundational belief within Protestantism, the interpretation and emphasis on this doctrine may vary amongst different Protestant denominations and theological traditions. However, the core idea remains consistent: that salvation is found exclusively through faith in Jesus Christ.
We don’t sin to become sinners. We sin because we were born sinners
Jesus did not come to condemn sinners. He came to save all those who would believe the gospel. But saved from what?
John 3:17-20 BSB: whoever does not believe has already been condemned
John 3:17 BSB For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.
John 3:18 BSB [18] Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.
Romans 3:20 BSB Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin.
Romans 5:12-21: through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners
Romans 5:12 BSB Therefore, just as SIN ENTERED THE WORLD THROUGH ONE MAN, and death through sin, so also death was PASSED ON TO ALL MEN, because all sinned.
Romans 5:13 BSB For sin was in the world before the law was given; but sin is not taken into account WHEN THERE IS NO LAW.
Romans 5:16 BSB Again, the gift is not like the result of the one man’s sin: The judgement that followed one sin brought condemnation, but the gift that followed many trespasses brought justification.
Romans 5:17-21 BSB For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive an ABUNDANCE OF GRACE and of the GIFT of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! [18] So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men. [19] For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. [20] The law came in so that the trespass would increase; but where sin increased, grace increased all the more, [21] so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Saved From The Penalty Of Adams Sin
Sinners must be saved from the penalty of Adam’s sin (which was death), which has been passed down through the male seed to all generations, getting further from God and more evil with every passing generation. We inherited this death at birth, which causes us to sin, because we are born separated from God. Because of this one man’s sin, we all became sinners. The sins we commit are merely the evidence, or the fruit of this death working in us, so that we can know we were already sinners in need of a Saviour. We don’t sin to become a sinner. We sin because we are born a sinner. Because we have received the penalty of Adams sin, death, at conception.
Romans 5:18-20: Because of this one man’s sin, we all became sinners
18 So then as through (A)one transgression [a]there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one (B)act of righteousness [b]there resulted (C)justification of life to all men. 19 For as through the one man’s disobedience (D)the many (E)were made sinners, even so through (F)the obedience of the One (G)the many will be made righteous. 20 [c](H)The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, (I)grace abounded all the more,
Understanding The Word Salvation
The Three Tenses of Salvation: Past – Present – Future
In the world of Christianity, there are few words as weighty and significant as “salvation.” It’s a term that encompasses the entirety of our relationship with God, from our past, through our present, and into our future. But what does salvation really mean, and how does it apply to us as believers? Let’s take a closer look at the three tenses of salvation.
1. Past: Spirit – We Have Been Saved
When we talk about salvation in the past tense, we’re referring to the moment of our conversion, when we were born again. At that moment, we were saved from the penalty of sin, which was inherited from Adam. This salvation is a one-time event, a decisive moment where our spirits were made new in Christ. As believers, we can rest assured that our spirits are perfected forever, sealed by the work of Jesus on the cross.
2. Present: Soul – We Are Being Saved
But salvation doesn’t end with our conversion. It’s an ongoing process, a journey of transformation that continues throughout our lives. In the present tense, salvation refers to the ongoing work of God in our souls. Our minds are being renewed, our lives transformed as we grow in our understanding of God’s truth and reflect His image more and more. This process involves surrendering to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, allowing Him to mold us into the likeness of Christ.
3. Future: Body – We Shall Be Saved
Looking ahead, we find the promise of future salvation. When our earthly bodies perish, we shall be saved from the very presence of sin. Our bodies will be raised imperishable, free from the effects of sin, and we will dwell with Christ forever in His presence. This is the ultimate hope of every believer, the culmination of our salvation journey.
In understanding the three tenses of salvation, we grasp the comprehensive nature of God’s redemptive work in our lives. Our spirits have been saved, our souls are being saved, and our bodies shall be saved. This multifaceted understanding helps us navigate the complexities of our Christian walk, knowing that God is faithful to complete the work He has begun in us.
Assurance in Christ’s Love
Moreover, our assurance of salvation rests in the unshakable love of God, demonstrated through Jesus Christ. Nothing in all creation can separate us from this love. As believers, we are one with Christ, united with Him in a bond that transcends time and space. No matter what challenges we face, no matter how intense the trials, we can trust in the unwavering love of our Savior.
Romans 8:33-39 beautifully articulates this truth, affirming that neither life nor death, angels nor principalities, nor anything else in all creation can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us, and our salvation is secure in His hands.
In conclusion, let us hold fast to the hope we have in Christ, knowing that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6, NASB). Salvation is not just a past event or a future hope; it is a present reality that transforms every aspect of our lives. May we walk in the fullness of this salvation, rooted and established in the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Romans 8:3: THE LAW WAS POWERLESS
Romans 8:3 BSB For what THE LAW WAS POWERLESS to do in that it was weakened by the flesh, GOD DID by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful man, as an offering for sin. He thus CONDEMNED SIN IN THE FLESH,
Hebrews 7:25-28: He is also able to SAVE FOREVER
Hebrews 7:25 NASB Therefore He is also able to SAVE FOREVER those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make INTERCESSION FOR THEM.
Hebrews 7:27-28 BSB [27] Unlike the other high priests, He does not need to offer daily sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the sins of the people; He sacrificed for sin once for all when He offered up Himself. [28] For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever.
Do You Agree
Would you agree that Yeshua is the love of God? Would you agree that believers are one in Him? Would you agree that Nothing can separate us from Yeshua?
Romans 8:33-39: NOTHING WILL BE ABLE TO SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF GOD
Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. [34] Who is there to condemn us? For Christ Jesus, who died, and more than that was raised to life, is at the right hand of God—and HE IS INTERCEDING FOR US. [35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? [36] As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” [37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. [38] FOR I AM CONVINCED that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, NOR ANYTHING ELSE IN ALL CREATION, WILL BE ABLE TO SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF GOD that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Conclusion
We are one in Christ as He is one in the Father. Therefore, there is absolutely nothing that can separate us from Him. Neither life or death. Angels or principalities. Time or power. Heaven or Hell. Nor anything in all creation. Absolutely NOTHING can separate us from Christ who is Gods love. Romans 8:33-39
