Once saved always saved?

All Questions, Salvation

Once saved, always saved? Eternal Security

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Salvation,   All Questions

Last Updated

Feb 5, 2025

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For centuries, theologians have debated the issue of eternal security/assurance. According to some, you cannot lose your salvation, while others maintain that it is easy to lose it.

Here are some Scriptures discussing this topic to assist us in determining what the Bible says

  • The Bible teaches us that God has elected and predestined those who would come to faith in Christ and be with Him in heaven. (Mark 13:20, Acts 13:48, Rom. 8:28-30, Eph 1:4, Col. 3:12, 1 Thess. 1:4, 2 Thess. 2:13, 2 Tim. 1:9 and 2 Tim. 2:10)
  • The Bible clearly states that your salvation is forever secure in Him once you believe in Christ. (1 John 2:25, John 10:27-28, John 3:36, John 5:24, 1 John 5:13, 1 John 3:14-15, John 3:16)
  • The Bible says that all who are genuinely saved have within them the power of the Holy Spirit and are kept by the power of God. (John 5:24; 6:37–40; 10:27–29; Rom. 5:9; 8:29–39; 1 Cor. 1:4–9; Eph. 4:30; Heb. 7:25; 1 Peter 1:4–5; Jude 24)

Considering these basic truths and promises, it seems impossible that a person could lose their salvation and be condemned to hell.

The following questions (answered in the following pages) can help us better understand the topic of once saved always saved:

  • Why is eternal security important?
  • What are the benefits of eternal security?
  • Do believers have the ability to abandon their salvation?

These questions give an overarching view of the importance of having an assurance of salvation and also describe God’s promise and power in saving and preserving us.

Why is Eternal security important?

It is essential that believers have assurance of their salvation since everything in the Christian lives depends on it. The foundation of our fellowship with God is based on the assurance that He has truly redeemed us from the clutches of hell and would not forsake us.

Furthermore, since individuals cannot receive salvation after death, God would want believers to know that they are saved.

What are the benefits of eternal security?

In addition to eternal security being an essential component of the Christian faith, it is also vital for a believer’s daily walk in faith. The following are some of the benefits of eternal security;

Stability in life: Believers who have an assurance of their salvation will remain stable during difficult times, they will live with the confidence that God does not change, and therefore, His grace is sufficient in all circumstances and situations.

An effective prayer life: Believers who have an assurance of their salvation will also have a practical prayer life, knowing that they can commune with God and approach Him with their requests.

Authority over Satan: Believers can be confident that they are “Hidden with Christ” (Col. 3:3). Therefore, trust the power of the Holy Spirit to help them resist Satan and stand firm when condemned by him.

As we can see, having an assurance of a secure relationship with God enables believers to endure the struggles of living in a fallen world.

Do believers have the ability to abandon their salvation?

This question requires an examination between the interplay of God’s sovereignty and humanity’s free will. Although God is sovereign, humans have the responsibility of making their own moral decisions.

Human responsibility

From the standpoint of human responsibility, God calls all people to repent (Acts 17:30; Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Mark 6:12) and promises that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Rom. 10:13; John 3:15–16). Yet the Bible also records that salvation does not depend solely on human will.

According to Romans 9:16, salvation depends not on man’s will, desire, or work, but rather on God’s mercy. As further stated in John 1:13, the redeemed are those born not of the will of man, but of God.

Furthermore, God grants two essential components of salvation, namely repentance (Acts 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25) and faith (Eph. 2:8–9; Phil. 1:29; Acts 16:14).

Apart from God’s working in man’s heart, the scriptures also indicate that no one would be able to approach Him, since “there is no one who seeks after God” (Rom. 3:11; cf.8:7–8; 1 Cor.2:14; 2, Cor.4:4; Eph.2:1–3).

God’s sovereignty in salvation.

Salvation is completely under God’s control. Therefore, any errant theological system that makes salvation dependent on man’s will (alone) dethrones God.

Jesus said no one could come to Him unless the Father first draws them (John 6:44, John 6:65).

Ephesians 2:1 (NKJV)

And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins,

God’s saving work is the only thing that can bring spiritual life to unbelievers.

Oftentimes, we mistake our salvation for drowning in the ocean, and God sending a life jacket to save us. However this analogy is incorrect because God first needed to revive us as we were dead at the bottom of the ocean.

Unbelief can’t prevent God’s saving work on those He has chosen from eternity past, even if they are spiritually dead.

Furthermore, Christians find security in Christ, not in their own efforts. Instead, they persevere through God’s power.

1 Peter 1:5 (NKJV)

who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

A believer has a responsibility to trust and believe in God, and God has a responsibility to keep the believer.

As believers, we should continuously take advantage of the means of grace provided for us through the cross and the sacred scriptures and humbly submit ourselves to God’s power.

As God works within believers, they can work out their salvation (Phil. 2:12-13).

Salvation is secured by God's power, not human effort—those truly saved will persevere in faith.

Is God of the Old and New Testament the same.

About God, All Questions

Is the God of the Old Testament and New Testament the same?

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God,   All Questions

Last Updated

Jan 11, 2025

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Some people mistakenly believe that the God of the New Testament (NT) differs from the God of the Old Testament (OT).

They see the God of the OT as unpredictable, moody, and hot-tempered, while they see the God of the NT as a judge-free, grace-giving father who spoils his children.

So does the Bible present us with two conflicting Gods? The good God of the NT and to use the words of a prominent atheist author Richard Dawkins – “a moral monster and bully” of the OT.

No. The Bible presents one God, and it becomes clear through progressive revelation in the Bible that God is both ‘gracious’ and ‘just.’ Both the OT and NT depict these qualities.

While it is true that God’s grace is clearly shown in the New Testament, culminating at the cross of Jesus Christ, it does not mean that the God of the Old Testament did not demonstrate grace.

From the very beginning, in the book of Genesis, God’s grace is evident in the Garden of Eden; after Adam and Eve’s collapse to sin, God still pursues them with grace instead of wiping them out.

A similar theme runs throughout the Old Testament. God graciously tolerates Israel despite their repeated rebellion as well as other nations, such as Sodom and Gomorrah, where He was willing to spare the city for 10 righteous people’s sake.

Now just as God’s grace is seen in the OT, His justice is evident in the NT as well.

For instance, Jesus clearing the temple in John 2 or the hardening of Jewish hearts in Romans 11, not to mention the book Revelation describing God’s final justice and judgment during the end times.

In conclusion, the Bible does not portray a dual-headed God, but it unveils to us the totality of God’s whole nature. God is both just and full of grace.

THE BIBLE DOES NOT PORTRAY A DUAL-HEADED GOD, BUT UNVEILS TO US THE TOTALITY OF GODS' WHOLE NATURE.

Why should I study the Bible?

About the Bible?, All Questions

Why should I study the Bible?

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Bible,   All Questions

Last Updated

Jan 22, 2025

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For many Christians understanding why to study the Bible is essential. While the most christians would understand the gospel message not all engage with the Scriptures for a deeper insight into God’s plans & character and for their personal spiritual growth.

As Christians, we must not only listen to God’s word being taught at church, but also know how to access all of its richness and internalizing it allowing the word to transform our lives.

The following are a few reasons why we should study the Bible:

      • Gives us direction in life (Psalm 119:105)
      • Protects us from sin (Psalm 119:11)
      • It protects us from temptation. (Mathew 4:1-10)
      • It will help you become more like Jesus Christ, (John 17:17)

The Bible is more than just a book; it is divinely inspired by the Spirit of God and is useful for every believer. It contains divine truth, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, reveals to all readers the Savior.

2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV)

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

Lastly, Jesus Himself testified to the absolute authority of the Bible as the Word of God. He affirmed the Bible’s divine inspiration (Matthew 22:43), its indestructibility (Matthew 5:17-18), its infallibility (John 10:35), its final authority (Matthew 4:4,7,10), its historicity (Matthew 12:40; 24:37), its factual inerrancy (John 17:17) and that Scripture cannot be broken (John 10:35).

In conclusion, studying the Bible is vital for gaining wisdom, understanding God’s will, and living a life that aligns with His purposes. Additionally, it’s not only about acquiring knowledge but about experiencing spiritual growth and transformation. Studying the Bible is a journey into understanding the depths of God’s Word and applying it to one’s life.

Studying the Bible fosters spiritual growth, reveals God’s will, and transforms lives through its divine truth and authority.

Are there any contradictions in the Bible?

About the Bible?, All Questions

Are there any contradictions in the Bible?

Category

Bible,   All Questions

Last Updated

Jan 22, 2025

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What would you say if someone told you that the Bible contains contradictions? It’s unfortunate that many Christians are usually silent whenever posed this question since they themselves struggle with interpreting the scriptures.

But, before we tackle this question, we need to be honest.

Does the Bible contain challenging passages? Yes, some readings are easy to understand, and some are tough. Are there Biblical challenges? Yes, but are there any verified contradictions? Absolutely not.

Whenever anyone asks about the contradictions of the Bible, we need to explain to them that just because there are tough passages doesn’t mean we conclude there are contradictions.

To understand these differences/tensions in the Gospels, we should consider the following two essential points:

(1) We must be able to distinguish between a ‘Difference’ and a ‘Contradiction.’

            • Contradictions are errors that are definite / absolute and cannot be reconciled. For example, take the famous story of the Titanic ship; if some survivors said the ship broke in half and another group stated that it sank in one piece, this would be classified as an apparent contradiction.
            • A ‘Difference’ for  example, would be if you went home and your spouse comes to you and says, “a man showed up at the door and said that I won a cheque for a million dollars.” But an hour later, she/he calls their parents and says, “two men showed up at the doorstep one with a cheque and the other with a camera saying I am going to be on television.” This scenario would illustrate a difference and not a contraction. One scene contained more information, while the other was not exhaustive.

Many of the ‘alleged’ Bible contractions are differences and not contradictions.

(2) We should also understand that the genre in which the gospels were recorded was according to the ‘Greco-RomanBiography.’ Wherein much like today’s literature, some liberties were allowed (such as time compression and lack of precision) when it came to minor chronological details. For example, one commonly disputed argument is concerning Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness, where the authors Mathew and Luke invert the first and second temptations in their books. This does not disregard the Bible’s authenticity, as they both give the same message.

In conclusion, the Bible contains no contradictions. While some passages may present challenges or differences, these do not undermine the core message of the Gospel. It’s crucial to distinguish between differences in detail and true contradictions. The Bible, when properly understood, is consistent in its teachings and reliable in its testimony. The truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection remains unchallenged, affirmed throughout scripture, and stands as the foundation of the Christian faith.

The Bible contains no contradictions—only differences that enrich its depth and context.

Is God the author of evil?

About God, All Questions

Is God the author of evil?

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God,   All Questions

Last Updated

Jan 11, 2025

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According to the Bible, God created everything and is morally perfect. If this is true, how could evil exist?

Now, there is an indirect sense in which God (being sovereign over His creation) is the “author” or “cause” of moral evil and sin by creating moral beings with free choices.

However, we must be careful in defining the word “author.” When we say that God is the “author” of sin, we mean He is the ultimate cause of sin but not guilty of sin.

Ultimately, it is the free-created beings who commit the sin who are at fault. So we could say that God made evil possible by creating moral creatures with free will who are ultimately responsible for moral evil.

God only permits evil but does not promote it and ultimately produces a greater good through it. Which is evident throughout the sacred scriptures through the many failings of men.

Evil exists (though for a limited time) to demonstrate God’s mercy and grace.

Although evil may seem overwhelming, we can take courage knowing that God will work things out for the glory of His name and that all things He sovereignly permits are for a reason.

Genesis 50:20 (NKJV)

But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.

GOD MADE EVIL POSSIBLE BY CREATING FREE CREATURES, BUT THE FREE CREATURES MADE EVIL ACTUAL.

How can Jesus be co-equal to God when He said the Father is greater?

About the Trinity, All Questions

How can Jesus be co-equal to God when He said the Father is greater?

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Trinity,   All Questions

Last Updated

Jan 18, 2025

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John 14:28 (NKJV)

You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father,’ for My Father is greater than I.

In the above verse, Jesus says, “My Father is greater than I,” a statement that has sparked much theological discussion. How does this align with the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, which holds that Jesus is co-equal with God?

To grasp this, it’s essential to understand the nature of Jesus’ ministry and the context of His statement. Jesus’ words here reflect His earthly role and mission. During His time on earth, Jesus, though divine, took on a human form and a servant’s role, as described in Philippians 2:5-8. This self-limiting of His divine attributes (referred to as “kenosis”) was an act of humility and obedience, part of His mission for humanity’s salvation.

Philippians 2:5-8 (NKJV)

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

Jesus’ statement about the Father being greater than Him should be understood in light of His human experience and the limitations He willingly accepted during His earthly ministry. This doesn’t imply an inherent inferiority in His divine nature but rather highlights the relational dynamics within the Trinity during His earthly life. His going back to the Father – following His resurrection (as mentioned in John 14:28), was a return to His pre-incarnate glory, and exaltation.

Additionally, it is important to understand that the word “greater” in both Greek and English can mean either of two things.

First, it could mean “someone who is better in essence, rank, and position.” For instance, you would be greater than your pet in essence, rank, and position as well.  Secondly, ‘greater’ can also refer to “someone who holds a greater status or office.” For example, your boss is greater than you; the president is greater than the vice president. However, God values both the president and the boss equally and accords them the same dignity and value.

In saying that the Father is greater, Jesus was not referring to His essence, but rather to His position and role on earth at the time of making the statement.

In conclusion, Jesus’ statement in John 14:28 about the Father being greater is not a contradiction of His divinity but an affirmation of His earthly role and the relational dynamics within the Godhead during this temporal period. Understanding this helps us appreciate the incredible humility of Christ in His redemptive work.

In saying that the Father is greater, Jesus was not referring to His essence, but rather to His position and role on earth at the time of making the statement.

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