Eternal Security and Problem Passages Extra

Noel Merrick

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Eternal Security and Problem Passages

Eternal security is the Bible confidence that every born again believer has perfect, complete, eternal salvation in Jesus Christ.

As soon as a sinner receives Christ, he possesses full, unending salvation.

To have Christ is to have a secure position before God (1 Jn. 5:10-13).

1 John 5:10–13 KJV 1900

He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

Though the Bible does not use the term “security” to describe the believer’s relationship in Christ, it leaves no doubt that the child of God is eternally safe in Christ.

Eternal security refers only to those who are born again through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

It does not refer to hypocrites or to those who are merely dabbling in the things of Christ.

Those who permanently fall away have never been born again.

I) HOW WE CAN BE SURE TRUE CHRISTIANS ARE ETERNALLY SECURE.

1. Because of the terms used to describe salvation.

“eternal life” (Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 5:11);

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

1 John 5:11 KJV 1900

And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

“full assurance” (He. 6:11; Col. 2:2);

Hebrews 6:11 (KJV 1900)

And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

Colossians 2:2 KJV 1900

That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

“strong consolation” (He. 6:18);

Hebrews 6:18 (KJV 1900)

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

“hope ... sure and stedfast” (He. 6:19).

Hebrews 6:19 (KJV 1900)

Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

2. Because of what we are.

All of the following are spoken of in the present tense; this is the present condition of each true believer

(1) Forgiven (Ro. 4:7; 1 Jn. 2:12).

Romans 4:7 KJV 1900

Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.

1 John 2:12 KJV 1900

I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s sake.

(2) Justified (Ro. 5:1,9; Tit. 3:7).

Romans 5:1 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Romans 5:9 KJV 1900

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Titus 3:7 KJV 1900

That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

(3) Reconciled (Ro. 5:10).

Romans 5:10 (KJV 1900)

For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

(4) Risen with Christ (Ro. 6:3-6; Col. 3:1,2).

Romans 6:3–6 KJV 1900

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

Colossians 3:1 KJV 1900

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Colossians 3:2 KJV 1900

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

(5) A child of God forever (Ro. 8:15; Ga. 4:4-7; 1 Jn. 3:1).

Romans 8:15 (KJV 1900)

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

Galatians 4:4–7 (KJV 1900)

But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

1 John 3:1 KJV 1900

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

(6) Sanctified in Christ (1 Co. 1:2).

1 Corinthians 1:2 KJV 1900

Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

(7) New creation (2 Co. 5:17).

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV 1900)

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

(8) Accepted in the beloved (Ep. 1:6).

Ephesians 1:6 KJV 1900

To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

(9) Saved (Ep. 2:8,9; 2 Ti. 1:9).

Ephesians 2:8 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

Ephesians 2:9 KJV 1900

Not of works, lest any man should boast.

2 Timothy 1:9 KJV 1900

Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

(10) Light in the Lord (Ep. 5:8).

Ephesians 5:8 (KJV 1900)

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

(11) Made fit for Heaven (Col. 1:12).

Colossians 1:12 (KJV 1900)

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

(12) Complete in Him (Col. 2:10).

Colossians 2:10 (KJV 1900)

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

(13) Citizens of Heaven (Ph. 3:20).

(14) Children of light (1 Th. 5:5).

1 Thessalonians 5:5 (KJV 1900)

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

(15) Elect (1 Pe. 1:2).

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

(16) Born again (1 Pe. 1:2,23).

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

1 Peter 1:23 (KJV 1900)

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

(17) Sanctified once for all (He. 10:10).

Hebrews 10:10 KJV 1900

By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

(18) Perfected forever (He. 10:14).

Hebrews 10:14 KJV 1900

For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

(19) Passed from death unto life (1 Jn. 3:14).

1 John 3:14 KJV 1900

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

3. Because of where we are.

(1) In God’s family (Ga. 3:26; 1 Jn. 3:2).

Galatians 3:26 (KJV 1900)

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

1 John 3:2 (KJV 1900)

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

(2) Brought near (Ep. 2:13).

Ephesians 2:13 KJV 1900

But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

(3) In the heavenlies with Christ (Ep. 2:5-6).

Ephesians 2:5–6 (KJV 1900)

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

(4) Translated into the kingdom of His dear Son (Col. 1:13).

Colossians 1:13 KJV 1900

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

4. Because of what we have.

(1) Eternal life (Jn. 3:16).

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

(2) Peace with God (Ro. 5:1).

Romans 5:1 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

(3) An Intercessor in Heaven (Ro. 8:34).

Romans 8:34 KJV 1900

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

(4) All spiritual blessings (Ep. 1:3).

Ephesians 1:3 (KJV 1900)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

(5) Forgiveness of sins (Ep. 1:7; Col. 1:14; 2:13).

Ephesians 1:7 KJV 1900

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Colossians 1:14 (KJV 1900)

In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Colossians 2:13 (KJV 1900)

And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

(6) Sealing of the Holy Spirit (Ep. 1:12-14).

Ephesians 1:12–14 (KJV 1900)

That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

(7) Access to God (Ep. 2:18).

Ephesians 2:18 (KJV 1900)

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

(8) Everlasting consolation (2 Th. 2:16).

2 Thessalonians 2:16 (KJV 1900)

Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,

(9) Eternal glory (2 Ti. 2:10).

2 Timothy 2:10 (KJV 1900)

Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

(10) Eternal redemption (He. 9:12).

Hebrews 9:12 (KJV 1900)

Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

(11) Mercy (1 Pe. 2:10).

1 Peter 2:10 KJV 1900

Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

(12) An Advocate with the Father (1 Jn. 2:1-2).

1 John 2:1–2 KJV 1900

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

5. Because of what is past.

(1) Condemnation (Jn. 5:24).

John 5:24 KJV 1900

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

(2) The law of sin and death (Ro. 8:2).

Romans 8:2 KJV 1900

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

(3) Death and wrath (Col. 3:3; Ro. 6:11; 1 Th. 5:9).

Colossians 3:3 (KJV 1900)

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

Romans 6:11 (KJV 1900)

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:9 KJV 1900

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

(4) Night and darkness (1 Th. 5:5).

1 Thessalonians 5:5 KJV 1900

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

6. Because of our promises.

(1) Never perish (Jn. 10:27-28).

John 10:27–28 KJV 1900

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

(2) Shall never die (Jn. 11:26).

John 11:26 (KJV 1900)

And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

(3) The glory of God (Ro. 5:2).

Romans 5:2 (KJV 1900)

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

This speaks of Christ’s kingdom glory.

(4) Shall be saved from wrath (Ro. 5:9).

Romans 5:9 KJV 1900

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

(5) Glorious liberty of the children of God (Ro. 8:21).

Romans 8:21 KJV 1900

Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

(6) Redemption of the body (Ro. 8:23-24; Phil . 3:21).

Romans 8:23–24 KJV 1900

And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

Philippians 3:21 (KJV 1900)

Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

(7) Predestinated to be conformed to the image of Christ (Ro. 8:28-29).

Romans 8:28–29 (KJV 1900)

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

(8) Cannot be separated from God’s love (Ro. 8:31-39).

Romans 8:31–39 (KJV 1900)

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

(9) God shall confirm you unto the end (1 Co. 1:8).

1 Corinthians 1:8 (KJV 1900)

Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(10) He that hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Phil . 1:6).

Philippians 1:6 KJV 1900

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

(11) Shall appear with Christ in glory (Col. 3:3-4).

Colossians 3:3–4 KJV 1900

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

(12) Delivered from the wrath to come (1 Th. 1:10).

1 Thessalonians 1:10 KJV 1900

And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

(13) Not appointed to wrath but to salvation (1 Th. 5:9).

1 Thessalonians 5:9 KJV 1900

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

(14) Eternal inheritance (He. 9:15).

Hebrews 9:15 KJV 1900

And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

(15) Incorruptible inheritance (1 Pe. 1:4).

1 Peter 1:4 (KJV 1900)

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

1 John 5:11 (KJV 1900)

And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

Hebrews 6:11 KJV 1900

And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

Colossians 2:2 KJV 1900

Hebrews 6:18 KJV 1900

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

Hebrews 6:19 (KJV 1900)

Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

Romans 4:7 KJV 1900

Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.

1 John 2:12 KJV 1900

I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s sake.

Romans 5:1 (KJV 1900)

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Romans 5:9 (KJV 1900)

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Titus 3:7 (KJV 1900)

That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Romans 5:10 (KJV 1900)

For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

Romans 6:3–6 KJV 1900

Colossians 3:1 KJV 1900

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

Colossians 3:2 KJV 1900

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

Romans 8:15 KJV 1900

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

Galatians 4:4–7 KJV 1900

But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

1 John 3:1 KJV 1900

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

1 Corinthians 1:2 (KJV 1900)

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV 1900)

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Ephesians 1:6 KJV 1900

To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Ephesians 2:8 (KJV 1900)

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

Ephesians 2:9 (KJV 1900)

Not of works, lest any man should boast.

2 Timothy 1:9 (KJV 1900)

Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

Ephesians 5:8 (KJV 1900)

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Colossians 1:12 (KJV 1900)

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:

Colossians 2:10 (KJV 1900)

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

1 Thessalonians 5:5 (KJV 1900)

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

1 Peter 1:2 (KJV 1900)

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

1 Peter 1:23 KJV 1900

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

Hebrews 10:10 KJV 1900

By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Hebrews 10:14 KJV 1900

For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

1 John 3:14 KJV 1900

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

Galatians 3:26 KJV 1900

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

1 John 3:2 KJV 1900

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

Ephesians 2:13 (KJV 1900)

But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

Ephesians 2:5–6 (KJV 1900)

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Colossians 1:13 (KJV 1900)

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Romans 5:1 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Romans 8:34 KJV 1900

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

Ephesians 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Ephesians 1:7 (KJV 1900)

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Colossians 1:14 KJV 1900

In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Colossians 2:13 KJV 1900

And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

Ephesians 1:12–14 (KJV 1900)

That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

Ephesians 2:18 (KJV 1900)

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

2 Thessalonians 2:16 (KJV 1900)

Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,

2 Timothy 2:10 (KJV 1900)

Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Hebrews 9:12 KJV 1900

Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

1 Peter 2:10 KJV 1900

Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

1 John 2:1–2 (KJV 1900)

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

John 5:24 (KJV 1900)

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

Romans 8:2 KJV 1900

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

Colossians 3:3 KJV 1900

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

Romans 6:11 KJV 1900

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:9 (KJV 1900)

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

1 Thessalonians 5:5 KJV 1900

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

John 10:27–28 (KJV 1900)

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

John 11:26 (KJV 1900)

And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Romans 5:2 (KJV 1900)

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Romans 5:9 (KJV 1900)

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

Romans 8:21 KJV 1900

Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

Romans 8:23–24 (KJV 1900)

And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

Romans 8:28–29 KJV 1900

Romans 8:31–39 KJV 1900

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Corinthians 1:8 (KJV 1900)

Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Colossians 3:3–4 KJV 1900

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

1 Thessalonians 1:10 KJV 1900

And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

1 Thessalonians 5:9 KJV 1900

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

Hebrews 9:15 (KJV 1900)

1 Peter 1:4 KJV 1900

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

II)HOW DO WE KNOW THESE BLESSINGS CANNOT BE LOST? 1. The blessings of salvation cannot be lost because of the nature of salvation:

(1) Salvation is eternal (Jn. 3:16,36).

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:36 KJV 1900

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

(2) Salvation is a present possession (Ro. 5; 1 Pe. 2:24-25).

Romans 5 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 Peter 2:24–25 KJV 1900

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

(3) Salvation is by imputation and substitution (2 Co. 5:17; Ga. 2:20; He. 9:10; Ro. 3:24).

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV 1900

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Galatians 2:20 KJV 1900

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Hebrews 9:10 KJV 1900

Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.

Romans 3:24 (KJV 1900)

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

(4) Salvation is positional (Ep. 1:3 -- “in Christ”; Ro. 6:7; Col. 2:10; 3:1-4,12).

Ephesians 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Romans 6:7 (KJV 1900)

For he that is dead is freed from sin.

Colossians 2:10 KJV 1900

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Colossians 3:1–4 KJV 1900

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

Colossians 3:12 KJV 1900

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

(5) Salvation is not of human merit; it is a free gift of grace which cannot be mixed with works (Ep. 2:8-9; Tit. 3:3-7; Ro. 3:19-28; 4:4-5; 11:6).

Ephesians 2:8–9 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Titus 3:3–7 KJV 1900

For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Romans 3:19–28 KJV 1900

Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

Romans 4:4–5 KJV 1900

Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Romans 11:6 KJV 1900

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

2. The blessings of salvation cannot be lost because of the results of salvation:

(1) Eternal life (Jn. 3:16).

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

(2) Justification (Ro. 5:1; 3:19-28).

Romans 5:1 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Romans 3:19–28 KJV 1900

(3) Peace with God (Ro. 5:1).

Romans 5:1 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

(4) Sure possession of future glory (Ro. 5:2; Col. 3:1-4).

Romans 5:2 KJV 1900

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Colossians 3:1–4 KJV 1900

(5) Salvation from future wrath (Ro. 5:9).

Romans 5:9 KJV 1900

Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

(6) Raised up with Christ (Ro. 6).

Romans 6 KJV 1900

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(7) Blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ (Ep. 1:3).

Ephesians 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

(8) Sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ep. 4:30).

Ephesians 4:30 KJV 1900

And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

(9) Passed from darkness to light (Col. 1:12-14).

Colossians 1:12–14 KJV 1900

Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

3. The blessings of salvation cannot be lost because of the teaching of election:

Election does not destroy human responsibility (2 Th. 2:10-13; Ac. 13:46,48), but

2 Thessalonians 2:10–13 KJV 1900

And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

Acts 13:46 KJV 1900

Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

Acts 13:48 KJV 1900

And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

election does promise security for the believer (Ro. 8:28-39; Ep. 1; 1 Pe. 1:2-7). 4. The blessings of salvation cannot be lost because lack of good works involves loss of rewards and fruitfulness, not loss of one’s eternal relationship with Christ (1 Co. 3:15; Tit. 3:14; 2 Jn. 8). 5. The blessings of salvation cannot be lost because of the believer’s union with Christ.

Romans 8:28–39 KJV 1900

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Ephesians 1 KJV 1900

1 Peter 1:2–7 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

1 Corinthians 3:15 KJV 1900

If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Titus 3:14 KJV 1900

And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

2 John 8 KJV 1900

Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.

The believing sinner is placed “in Christ” and stands or falls with Him (Col. 1:14; Eph. 1-3 -- “in Christ” mentioned 25 times; He. 9:10; 1 Pe. 1:18-23; 2:6,24-25).

III) DOES ETERNAL SECURITY MEAN ANYONE WHO PROFESSES CHRIST IS SAVED, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THEY GIVE EVIDENCE OF GENUINE FAITH?

1. No, salvation demands repentance (Lk. 13:3-5; Ac. 2:38-42; 17:30-31).

Luke 13:3–5 KJV 1900

I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

Acts 2:38–42 KJV 1900

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Acts 17:30–31 KJV 1900

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Repentance means a change of mind resulting in a change of life (2 Co. 7:8-11).

2 Corinthians 7:8–11 KJV 1900

For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season. Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

The person who has never changed his mind about God, sin, Christ, the Bible, etc., and who has never evidenced this changed mind with a changed life, has never repented and has never been saved.

The Thessalonian believers exemplify biblical repentance.

They “turned to God from idols, to serve the living and true God” (1 Thess. 1:9-10).

1 Thessalonians 1:9–10 KJV 1900

For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

2. No, salvation requires the new birth, and the new birth always changes a man’s life (2 Co. 5:17-21; Mt. 18:3-4; Jn. 3:1-18; 1 Jn. 3:10; 3 Jn. 11).

3. No, salvation is evidenced by perseverance (Jn. 10:27-28; Col. 1:21-23; He. 3:12-14; 10:38-39; 1 Jn. 2:19; 3:3).

2 Corinthians 5:17–21 KJV 1900

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Matthew 18:3–4 KJV 1900

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

John 3:1–18 KJV 1900

There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

1 John 3:10 KJV 1900

In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

3 John 11 KJV 1900

Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

John 10:27–28 KJV 1900

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

Colossians 1:21–23 KJV 1900

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

Hebrews 3:12–14 KJV 1900

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

Hebrews 10:38–39 KJV 1900

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

1 John 2:19 KJV 1900

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

According to these Scriptures, the one who is truly born again will persevere in Christ; or it could be better stated that Christ will persevere in him!

4. No, saving faith always produces works (Eph. 2:8-10; He. 11:4, 7, 8; Jam. 2:14-26).

Ephesians 2:8–10 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Hebrews 11:4 KJV 1900

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

Hebrews 11:7 KJV 1900

By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Hebrews 11:8 KJV 1900

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.

James 2:14–26 KJV 1900

What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

If one claims to have faith in Christ, but his life does not reflect the works of Christ, that one does not have biblical faith.

A fruitless profession of fruit cannot lay claim to God’s promises of eternal security.

IV) DOES ETERNAL SECURITY CAUSE PEOPLE TO LIVE CARELESSLY?

Eternal security does not cause people to live carelessly.

The very opposite is true.

The Bible teaches that the grace of God actually motivates believers to serve God with a thankful heart (Ro. 2:4; Ep. 3:14-19; Tit. 2:11-14).

Romans 2:4 KJV 1900

Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

Ephesians 3:14–19 KJV 1900

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Titus 2:11–14 KJV 1900

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

The more a believer understands the unfathomable love God has for him in Christ, the more he wants to please God.

V) WHO HAS ETERNAL SECURITY?

It is important to further emphasize the fact that the doctrine of eternal security does not promise safety for anyone who merely professes Christ.

In the following study we see that the Bible connects eternal security only with the true believer, the one who has been born again, and differentiates him with the mere professor.

Who has eternal security --

(1) Those who continue in the word (Jn. 8:31,32).

John 8:31 KJV 1900

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

John 8:32 KJV 1900

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

(2) Those who follow Christ (Jn. 10:27-28).

John 10:27–28 KJV 1900

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

(3) Those who bring forth fruit (Jn. 15:2; Lk. 3:9).

John 15:2 KJV 1900

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

Luke 3:9 KJV 1900

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

(4) Those who are led by the Spirit of God (Ro. 8:14-15).

Romans 8:14–15 KJV 1900

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

(5) Those who have been born again (2 Co. 5:17; Ep. 2:10; Ga. 6:15).

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV 1900

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Ephesians 2:10 KJV 1900

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Galatians 6:15 KJV 1900

For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

(6) Those who are sanctified from an unrighteous way of life (1 Co. 6:9-11).

1 Corinthians 6:9–11 KJV 1900

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

(7) Those who have demonstrated their election (1 Th. 1:4-10).

1 Thessalonians 1:4–10 KJV 1900

Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God. For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

(8) Those who depart from iniquity (2 Ti. 2:19).

2 Timothy 2:19 KJV 1900

Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

(9) Those who maintain their confidence in Christ (He. 3:14).

Hebrews 3:14 KJV 1900

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

(10) Those who have an undivided, convinced faith (He. 4:10,11).

Hebrews 4:10 KJV 1900

For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.

Hebrews 4:11 KJV 1900

Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.

(11) Those who evidence the “things that accompany salvation” (He. 6:9-12).

Hebrews 6:9–12 KJV 1900

But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

(12) Those who are looking for Christ’s return (He. 9:28).

Hebrews 9:28 KJV 1900

So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

(13) Those who remain patient and steadfast in tribulations (He. 10:35-39).

Hebrews 10:35–39 KJV 1900

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

(14) Those who are in the truth and continue in the truth (1 Jn. 2:19-21; 2 Jn. 1-2).

1 John 2:19–21 KJV 1900

They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.

2 John 1–2 KJV 1900

The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth; for the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever.

(15) Those who are purifying themselves (1 Jn. 3:1-3).

1 John 3:1–3 KJV 1900

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

(16) Those who love the brethren (1 Jn. 3:14).

1 John 3:14 KJV 1900

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

VI) WHO DOES NOT HAVE ETERNAL SECURITY?

(1) Those who profess but do not repent (Lk. 3:7-14; Acts 26:20).

Luke 3:7–14 KJV 1900

Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.

Acts 26:20 KJV 1900

But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

(2) Those who have mere intellectual assent (Jn. 2:23-25; Jam 2:17-20).

John 2:23–25 KJV 1900

Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

James 2:17–20 KJV 1900

Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

(3) Those who have self-willed faith, only believing what they want to believe rather than the testimony of the Scriptures (Jn. 6:60-66).

John 6:60–66 KJV 1900

Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

(4) Those who have religious zeal apart from the gospel (Ro. 10:1-4).

Romans 10:1–4 KJV 1900

Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

VII) IF THE DISOBEDIENT CHRISTIAN DOES NOT LOSE HIS SALVATION, WHAT DOES HAPPEN TO HIM?

(1) The sinning Christian is out of fellowship with the Lord and his people (1 Jn. 1:3-7).

1 John 1:3–7 KJV 1900

That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

(2) The sinning Christian is helped and loved by the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Jn. 2:1-2).

1 John 2:1–2 KJV 1900

(3) The sinning Christian is chastened by the Father (He. 12:5-11).

Hebrews 12:5–11 KJV 1900

And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

(4) The sinning Christian loses irreplaceable opportunities for service and fruit (Ep. 5:14-17; Mt. 9:36-38; 1 Th. 5:4-10).

Ephesians 5:14–17 KJV 1900

Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

Matthew 9:36–38 KJV 1900

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

1 Thessalonians 5:4–10 KJV 1900

But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

The sinning Christian can be forgiven, but he cannot regain the lost opportunities and the hurt he has caused by his sin.

(5) The sinning Christian will suffer loss at the judgment seat of Christ (1 Co. 3:11-15; 2 Co. 5:10; 1 Ti. 6:17-19; 1 Jn. 2:28).

1 Corinthians 3:11–15 KJV 1900

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

2 Corinthians 5:10 KJV 1900

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

1 Timothy 6:17–19 KJV 1900

Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

1 John 2:28 KJV 1900

And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

VIII) ETERNAL SECURITY AND PROBLEM PASSAGES

The following introductory comments offer a background for dealing with the “problem passages.”

First, the few passages which present apparent problems with the doctrine of eternal security must be interpreted carefully in light of the context.

It is a fact that the New Testament promises eternal security to the true believer.

I do not believe God would have given so much plain and simple teaching on the eternal nature of salvation only to overthrow it with a couple of relatively obscure passages.

We interpret the less clear passages in light of those which are crystal clear.

This is a working principle which I believe is honoring to the Word of God, and it is the proper way to handle it.

False teachers, on the other hand, delight in using the more obscure portions of Scripture to overthrow the plain.

To interpret any of the passages you mentioned as saying that a born again child of God can lose his salvation flies in the face of hundreds of clear passages of Scripture. When the context of a Bible passage is plainly directed to the subject of salvation, there is never a question about the security of the believer.

Second, a key problem in this matter is reading the doctrine of insecurity into various passages.

This is called eisegesis (reading into the Scriptures), as contrasted with the proper method of exegesis (interpreting out of the Scriptures).

Most passages which are put forth to support the idea that salvation can be lost have absolutely nothing to do with such a thing if approached without preconceived ideas.

Third, many who teach eternal security do so in an unbiblical manner.

To fail to emphasize the necessity of repentance, to fail to warn the casual “professor” that profession is not the same as possession, to comfort and impart security to a professor who has no evidence of regeneration is to do injustice to the biblical doctrine of eternal security.

The Bible frequently warns about the possibility of appearing to be saved while actually being lost, about coming close to salvation without actually being saved. Those of us who teach eternal security must not ignore the solemn charges of the Word of God such as John 8:47 and 1 John 3:10.

John 8:47 KJV 1900

He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.

1 John 3:10 KJV 1900

In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

An example is the soul winner who leads an unbeliever in a sinner’s prayer after a short presentation of the “Roman’s Road,” then gives him assurance right then and there, before there has been any evidence that the person is genuinely born again.

Now to some of the passages most frequently used to undermine eternal security:

MATTHEW 7:21. This has nothing to do with a believer losing his salvation.

Matthew 7:21 KJV 1900

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

To do the will of the Father is certainly not the way to Heaven.

It is the evidence of genuine faith in Christ; it is the proof of regeneration.

MATTHEW 8:11-12. The “children of the kingdom” here are the Jews in the nation Israel.

Matthew 8:11–12 KJV 1900

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

One of the key teachings of the Gospels is the rejection of Jesus Christ by His own people, the Jews.

Time and again Christ warns and rebukes the Jews and their leaders, but most of them reject him.

The first half of Matthew, in particular, documents this fearful situation.

MATTHEW 25:1-13. The parable of the ten virgins is given in the context of Christ’s coming and of the establishment of the kingdom of God in Israel (see Matt. 25:31-34).

Matthew 25:1–13 KJV 1900

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Matthew 25:31–34 KJV 1900

When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

The foolish virgins are not true believers but are unbelievers who knew about Christ’s return but did not act on it.

(1) They didn’t have any oil (vv. 3,4), but the oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit.

(2) They wait until it is too late to obtain salvation (v. 9).

In light of everything the New Testament promises to the child of God, the foolish virgins MUST be those who are unsaved.

To interpret this otherwise is to throw multitudes of clear Scriptures into confusion.

MATTHEW 25:14-30.

Matthew 25:14–30 KJV 1900

For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

(1) The man’s concept of the Lord shows that he is a lost man.

He considered the Lord “an hard man” who reaped where He had not sown.

It is obvious that he did not know the blessed Lord Jesus Christ!

The Lord is exactly the opposite of how this man described Him.

He is gracious and merciful and patient and meek and lowly in heart; He gives us MUCH more than we deserve.

The fact that this man is called a servant does not mean necessarily that he is saved.

The Jews are called the Lord’s servants, but they were not all saved (Is. 43:10).

Isaiah 43:10 (KJV 1900)

Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, And my servant whom I have chosen: That ye may know and believe me, And understand that I am he: Before me there was no God formed, Neither shall there be after me.

(2) The man’s destiny also shows that he is a lost man.

He is cast into outer darkness, which is a description of hell (2 Peter 2:17; Jude 13).

2 Peter 2:17 KJV 1900

These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever.

Jude 13 KJV 1900

raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.

Nowhere in Scripture is a child of God said to be in outer darkness.

The Bible says believers are children of light and are not of darkness (1 Thess. 5:5).

1 Thessalonians 5:5 KJV 1900

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

(3) Further, the weeping and gnashing of teeth are associated with eternal damnation and Hell (Matt. 13:42,50; 22:13; 24:51; Luke 13:28).

Matthew 13:42 KJV 1900

And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 13:50 KJV 1900

And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 22:13 (KJV 1900)

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 24:51 (KJV 1900)

And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Luke 13:28 KJV 1900

There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.

It is not wise to establish doctrine upon parables.

The parables have one central point, and if you try to push every detail of the parable you can have all sorts of doctrinal problems.

JOHN 15:6. This passage does not say that a true believer will be cast into Hell; it says that the person who proves not to be a true believer will be cast into Hell.

John 15:6 (KJV 1900)

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

Those who teach that this applies to a true believer read that interpretation into it.

The rest of John’s Gospel makes this matter very plain.

Consider John 1:12,13; 3:14-18,36; 4:14; 5:25; 6:37,40,47; 10:27-30; 11:25; 17:2,3; 20:31. Whatever, therefore, the meaning of John 15:6 in reference to the child of God, it CANNOT mean that the true believer will be rejected and cast into Hell.

John 1:12 KJV 1900

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

John 1:13 (KJV 1900)

Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

John 3:14–18 KJV 1900

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

John 3:36 KJV 1900

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

John 4:14 (KJV 1900)

But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

John 5:25 KJV 1900

Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.

John 6:37 KJV 1900

All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

John 6:40 (KJV 1900)

And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

John 6:47 (KJV 1900)

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.

John 10:27–30 KJV 1900

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.

John 11:25 KJV 1900

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

John 17:2 (KJV 1900)

As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

John 17:3 KJV 1900

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

John 20:31 KJV 1900

But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

John 15:6 KJV 1900

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

That would make the promises of Jesus Christ to the believer into a lie.

Christ is referring here to the difference between sincere and insincere, true and false believers.

He mentions such a thing in other passages in John’s Gospel.

Consider John 2:23-25 and 6:64. John 15 is a warning that the evidence of true faith in Christ is to bear fruit for His glory.

John 2:23–25 (KJV 1900)

Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.

But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,

And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

John 15 (KJV 1900)

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

These things I command you, that ye love one another.

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.

If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.

He that hateth me hateth my Father also.

If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.

But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.

ROMANS 11:19-23. Consider the context:

Romans 11:19–23 KJV 1900

Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.

Paul is not addressing the subject of personal salvation.

He is addressing the matter of the Jews and their place in the program of God.

Paul is speaking in a general sense of Gentiles and of the Jewish nation.

Today God has turned temporarily from the Jews and is calling a people for His name from among the Gentile nations.

The day will come when God will again turn to the Jewish nation to fulfill His promises to them.

Verses 24-26 make this plain.

Paul is speaking in a general sense, not in a personal sense.

A careful reading of this chapter illustrates this. 1 CORINTHIANS 9:27. The context here is not Paul’s salvation, but his Christian service.

1 Corinthians 9:27 KJV 1900

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Paul was concerned that he would be castaway in the sense that he would be put on a shelf in this life or that his service would be rejected or disapproved at the judgment seat of Christ.

The same Greek word is translated “rejected.”

Paul was not afraid that he would be lost.

In the same epistle he taught that Christ preserves the believer (1 Corinthians 1:7-9).

1 Corinthians 1:7–9 (KJV 1900)

So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

What he feared was falling short of God’s high calling for his life.

The context makes this plain.

He is talking about running a race and winning a prize.

To confuse this passage with salvation is to misunderstand the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Salvation is not a reward for faithful service.

The Bible plainly states that salvation is by grace, and grace is the free, unmerited mercy of God (Eph. 2:8-9).

Ephesians 2:8–9 (KJV 1900)

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Anything that is merited or rewarded, is not grace (Romans 11:6).

Romans 11:6 KJV 1900

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

On the other hand, after we are saved by the marvelous grace of God, we are called to serve Jesus Christ.

We are created in Christ Jesus “unto good works” (Eph. 2:10).

Ephesians 2:10 KJV 1900

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

If a Christian is lazy and carnal, he will be chastened by the Lord (Heb. 12:6-8), and if he does not respond, God will take him home (Rom. 8:13; 1 Cor. 11:30; 1 John 5:16).

Hebrews 12:6–8 (KJV 1900)

For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

Romans 8:13 (KJV 1900)

For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

1 Corinthians 11:30 KJV 1900

For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.

1 John 5:16 (KJV 1900)

If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

PHILIPPIANS 2:12. This verse does not say that the child of God must work FOR or work UP his salvation; it says he must work OUT his salvation.

Philippians 2:12 KJV 1900

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

These are very different things.

To work up or to work for my salvation would mean that I have a part in my salvation and that unless I do my part, I will not be saved.

On the other hand, to work out my salvation means God has given me eternal salvation as a free gift in Jesus Christ, and it is His will that I obey Him, not in order to save myself or in order to help God save me, but BECAUSE I am already saved.

Verse Phil 2: 13 makes this clear, that it is God who provides the complete salvation. Obedience, holy living is the evidence of salvation.

Philippians 2:13 (KJV 1900)

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

The Christian life is a miracle of God that is wrought from within.

The power of the Christian life is the indwelling Holy Spirit, but the Christian is not passive. He is to be controlled by the Spirit (Eph. 5:18), to be led by the Spirit (Rom. 8:14), to walk after the Spirit (Rom. 8:4; Gal. 6:25), to mind the things of the Spirit (Rom. 8:5).

Ephesians 5:18 KJV 1900

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

Romans 8:14 KJV 1900

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Romans 8:4 KJV 1900

That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Romans 8:5 KJV 1900

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

PHILIPPIANS 3:9-14. How do we know that verse 11 is not referring to gaining one’s salvation through diligent effort?

Philippians 3:9–14 KJV 1900

And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

(1) The context is referring not to Paul’s salvation, but to his calling.

He endeavored to fulfill God’s perfect will for his life.

Verses 10 and 14 leave no question about the meaning of the passage.

To divorce it from the context, claiming that Paul was unsure that he possessed eternal salvation, denies the plain teaching of Scripture and throws the Bible into contradictory confusion.

(2) Paul said he was trying to earn a “prize” (Phil. 3:14), whereas salvation is a “gift” to be enjoyed (Ephesians 2:8,9).

Philippians 3:14 (KJV 1900)

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

Ephesians 2:9 (KJV 1900)

Not of works, lest any man should boast.

(3) We know that Paul was not stating in Philippians 3 that he was unsure he would be raised from the dead, because in this very epistle and elsewhere he emphasized the certainty of resurrection and the eternal security of the believer (Phil . 2:20,21; 1:6; 1 Cor. 15:51-58).The Lord Jesus Christ promised resurrection to every believer (John 11:25,26).

Philippians 3 (KJV 1900)

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.

For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:

Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;

Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Philippians 2:20 (KJV 1900)

For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

Philippians 2:21 KJV 1900

For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.

Philippians 1:6 (KJV 1900)

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

1 Corinthians 15:51–58 (KJV 1900)

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

John 11:25 KJV 1900

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

John 11:26 KJV 1900

And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

(4) Philippians 3:11 is explained in 1 Timothy 6:12 and 2 Peter 1:10-11, which teach that we “lay hold on eternal life” and prepare an abundant entrance into Christ’s eternal kingdom by our service for Christ in this world.

Philippians 3:11 KJV 1900

If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

1 Timothy 6:12 KJV 1900

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

2 Peter 1:10–11 KJV 1900

Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

It is speaking of rewards and crowns.

JAMES 2:24. Roman Catholics, Cultists, and others who deny the Gospel of the Grace of Jesus Christ, love to run to James 2:24 to “prove” that salvation is not by Christ’s grace alone through faith alone, but that works are necessary. Consider the following three observations:

James 2:24 (KJV 1900)

Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

James 2:24 KJV 1900

Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

First, context is crucial in understanding any Bible passage.

To ignore context is to fill the Bible with contradictions.

James was not addressing salvation; he was addressing the Christian life. Note verse James 2: 14 — “my brethren...” He is contrasting dead faith with true biblical faith (verses James 2: 14-17).

James 2:14 KJV 1900

What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

James 2:14–17 KJV 1900

“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone” (verse James 2: 14).

James 2:14 KJV 1900

What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

He is saying that true faith is evident by works.

Paul, on the other hand, addresses salvation directly in the book of Romans.

The sinner must trust exclusively in the grace of Jesus Christ for salvation.

“Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.

But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works” (Romans 4:4-6).

Romans 4:4–6 KJV 1900

Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,

There is no contradiction if one considers the context of each statement.

Paul is addressing the unsaved sinner’s perspective.

The sinner must trust Jesus Christ exclusively for salvation; he must reject his own filthy works (Isaiah 64:6) and all self-righteousness (Romans 9:30-33) and lean totally upon the Lord Jesus Christ, trusting wholly in His perfect and complete redemption. James, on the other hand, is addressing the Christian’s perspective.

Isaiah 64:6 KJV 1900

But we are all as an unclean thing, And all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; And we all do fade as a leaf; And our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Romans 9:30–33 KJV 1900

What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

The Christian claims to have faith in Jesus Christ.

He is therefore to diligently serve God and to walk in His commandments.

Those who live in rebellion and who ignore the Word of God demonstrate that they do not possess true saving faith, that they are deceiving themselves.

Second, James and Paul are addressing two different events in Abraham’s life.

Paul, in Romans 4:1-4, refers to Abraham’s salvation which occurred early in his life and which is recorded in Genesis 15:5-6.

Romans 4:1–4 KJV 1900

What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.

Genesis 15:5–6 KJV 1900

And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be. And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.

James, on the other hand, refers to Abraham’s testing which occurred 20 years later (James 2:21-24; Genesis 22:1-18).

James 2:21–24 KJV 1900

Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

Genesis 22:1–18 KJV 1900

And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off. And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you. And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together. And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood. And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I. And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen. And the angel of the Lord called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time, And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.

Abraham was saved by faith without works, but his salvation and his faith were EVIDENCED and DEMONSTRATED by his obedience.

Third, James’ teaching is no different from that of the other Apostles.

They all taught that true faith produces works.

Consider the classic passage in Ephesians 2:8-10 — “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Ephesians 2:8–10 KJV 1900

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

This passage puts faith and works in their proper order.

It is faith alone which connects us with the free salvation offered in Jesus Christ.

This salvation is a gift. Our works have nothing to do with it, and cannot add to the completed salvation in Jesus Christ.

Works, rather, follow after salvation and are the product of it, being created by God in the believing sinner.

Consider also Titus 3:4-8; Hebrews 6:9; 10:39; 1 John 3:6; 3 John 11.

Titus 3:4–8 KJV 1900

But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

Hebrews 6:9 KJV 1900

But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.

Hebrews 10:39 KJV 1900

But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

1 John 3:6 KJV 1900

Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.

3 John 11 KJV 1900

Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

This is exactly what James teaches.

He says there are two kinds of faith: saving faith and false faith.

The devils have faith but not saving faith (v. James 2: 19).

James 2:19 KJV 1900

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

James 2:19 KJV 1900

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

Some will counter that it is not important how one puts these things together.

One man says works follow salvation; another says works are a part of salvation.

What is the difference?

The difference is ENORMOUS.

It is the difference between Saved and Lost, between Heaven and Hell.

If I think that my works and my righteousness and my obedience and my law-keeping is a part of salvation, even a tiny part of salvation, I am denying the perfect sufficiency of Jesus Christ and of His Atonement.

“For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14).

Hebrews 10:14 KJV 1900

For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

I cannot add one iota to this perfect salvation which is freely offered through Jesus Christ.

“Being justified FREELY by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24).

Romans 3:24 KJV 1900

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

If works or church sacraments or law keeping are required in any sense whatsoever for salvation, it is not FREE and the Bible is a lie.

To add anything to the gospel of the grace of Christ is to bring God’s curse (Gal. 1:6).

Galatians 1:6 KJV 1900

I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

1 PETER 1:9. First, let us consider what this verse does not mean.

It does not mean salvation is a process or that salvation is uncertain.

The context overthrows such teaching. Verses 3-5 tells us that the believer’s salvation is settled and sure.

The believer is born again, has a lively hope, possesses an inheritance that is already reserved in heaven, and is kept by God’s power.

When the Bible speaks of the believer’s hope, it uses the term differently than the way hope is commonly used today.

The believer’s hope has no element of uncertainty.

In Hebrews 6:18-19 it is described as “a strong consolation” and “an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast.”

Hebrews 6:18–19 KJV 1900

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

The reason the believer has such confidence and security is that his salvation is completely dependent upon Jesus Christ and has nothing to do with his own works.

What does the verse mean, then?

Two of its wonderful teachings are these:

(1) Salvation has evidence (Heb. 10:38,39). True faith works. Salvation is by grace alone through faith in Christ without works (Eph. 2:8-9), but salvation also produces the fruit of good works (Eph. 2:10).

Hebrews 10:38 KJV 1900

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

Hebrews 10:39 KJV 1900

But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

Ephesians 2:8–9 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Ephesians 2:10 KJV 1900

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

(2) Salvation has different aspects.

There is a past, present, and future aspect to salvation.

The believer has been saved from the eternal consequences of sin; he is being saved from the power of sin in this earthly existence; and in his future heavenly home he will have been saved from the very presence of sin.

When 1 Peter 1:19 says the believer will receive salvation as the end product of his faith, this is what it is referring to.

1 Peter 1:19 KJV 1900

But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

It does not imply that his salvation is uncertain until the end.

1 PETER 4:18. The righteous are scarcely saved in the sense that salvation is impossible apart from God’s free gift through Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 4:18 KJV 1900

And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

If judged by our earthly lives, if judged by our works, we will all perish.

Even the righteous lives of born again Christians fall far short of the glory of Christ and the holiness God requires of us.

Our only hope is the righteousness of Christ which is offered to us as a free, unmerited gift (2 Cor. 5:21).

2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV 1900

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Even the righteousness of the religious Pharisees was insufficient (Matt. 5:20).

Matthew 5:20 KJV 1900

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

God requires perfect obedience to His law, and no man can attain to that.

Thus salvation must be a gift of God’s righteousness provided through Jesus Christ.

2 PETER 2:20-22. Though this passage is often used to prove that eternal security is not true, it actually says nothing about losing ones salvation.

2 Peter 2:20–22 KJV 1900

For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

The context is false teachers who promote damnable heresies and deny the Lord (v. 1).

It should be obvious that it is not saved men who are the focus on this passage, but hypocrites and deceivers.

Any interpretation which says these are saved men who lose their salvation flies in the face of the context.

The fact that “the latter end is worse with them than the beginning” and “it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness” does not imply that they were saved and now are lost.

They were dogs and pigs who were unchanged (v. 22).

The fact that they return to their wickedness proves that they were never regenerate.

When the context is taken into account, there really is no problem in this passage in regard to the doctrine of eternal security.

HEBREWS 6:4-6. This passage refers to false believers.

Hebrews 6:4–6 KJV 1900

How do we know?

(1) They tasted but they did not drink and eat (contrast John 6:54).

John 6:54 KJV 1900

Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.

(2) Those who fall away cannot be saved again. This shows the error of those who teach that a believer can lose his salvation.

(3) The difference between the true believer and the false is the fruit and the evidence (vv. 7,8).

(4) Paul plainly states that he is not referring to true believers (v. 9).

HEBREWS 10:26-29. The willful sin in verse 26 refers not to sin in general, but to one particular sin which is described in the rest of the passage.

Hebrews 10:26–29 KJV 1900

For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

The Bible plainly teaches us that Christians do sin after they are saved (1 John 1:8-10; 2:1-2). There is no sinless perfection in the Christian life. Our perfection and righteousness is in Jesus Christ positionally (1 Cor. 1:30; 2 Cor. 5:21).

1 John 1:8–10 KJV 1900

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

1 John 2:1–2 KJV 1900

1 Corinthians 1:30 KJV 1900

But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV 1900

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

The sin for which there is no forgiveness is the sin of “counting the blood of the covenant an unholy thing.”

This means to deny that salvation is by Christ’s blood and grace alone. In the immediate context to which the book of Hebrews was addressed, it refers to the Jews who professed confidence in Christ; but, because of pressure and persecution, returned to their dead religion and thus gave up confidence in Christ.

False religion, both then and now, attempts either to replace Christ’s salvation with a manmade system, or to add to Christ’s salvation a manmade system.

Catholicism is an example of the latter.

It preaches Christ, but it intermingles its own sacraments and priesthood and sainthood with the grace of Christ.

This is a false gospel which robs Christ of His glory as the sole Saviour and Mediator. If Christ is not Saviour wholly and exclusively, He is not Saviour at all.

If grace is intermingled in any sense with works, the Gospel is perverted, and there is no salvation in a perverted gospel (Rom. 11:6; Gal. 1:6-9).

Romans 11:6 KJV 1900

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

Galatians 1:6–9 KJV 1900

I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

HEBREWS 12:15-17. To fail of the grace of God does not mean to lose one’s salvation; it means to fall short of being saved.

Hebrews 12:15–17 KJV 1900

Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

The context makes this plain, as the example given is that of Esau.

He was not a believer, though he was born into a believing family.

He was a man of the world and cared nothing about the things of God.

He thought a bowl of soup was more valuable that his birthright as the son of Isaac.

How the book of Hebrews teaches eternal security?

Some think the book of Hebrews poses unanswerable problems for the doctrine of eternal security, but the opposite is true.

In the following ways the book of Hebrews strongly affirms this Bible doctrine:

1. Christ’s Purging promises security (Heb. 1:3).

Hebrews 1:3 KJV 1900

Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

2. Christ’s Rest promises security (Heb. 4:10).

Hebrews 4:10 KJV 1900

For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.

3. Christ’s Hope promises security (Heb. 6:17-19).

Hebrews 6:17–19 KJV 1900

Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

4. Christ’s High Priesthood promises security (Heb. 7:25,26).

Hebrews 7:25 KJV 1900

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

Hebrews 7:26 KJV 1900

For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;

5. Christ’s Blood promises security (Heb. 9:12,26; 10:14).

Hebrews 9:12 KJV 1900

Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

Hebrews 9:26 KJV 1900

For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

Hebrews 10:14 KJV 1900

For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

(1) We have eternal redemption through His blood (Heb. 9:21).

Hebrews 9:21 KJV 1900

Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.

(2) Sin is put away through His blood (Heb. 9:26).

Hebrews 9:26 KJV 1900

For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

(3) We are sanctified once for all through His blood (Heb. 10:10).

Hebrews 10:10 KJV 1900

By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

(4) We are perfected forever through His blood (Heb. 10:14).

Hebrews 10:14 KJV 1900

For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

6. Christ’s Covenant promises security (Heb. 8:12; 10:16-19).

Hebrews 8:12 KJV 1900

For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

Hebrews 10:16–19 KJV 1900

This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

Conclusion I do not profess to be able to answer every question which can be raised on this subject.

No man can.

Eternal security, though, is a Bible doctrine that has satisfied and blessed my heart for 29 years.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). The Bible plainly teaches that those who are truly born again will evidence their salvation and will continue on with the Lord (John 10:27-28; 1 Cor. 15:1,2; Col. 1:21-23; Heb. 6:4-9; 10:38; 1 John 3:3).

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 10:27–28 KJV 1900

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

1 Corinthians 15:1 KJV 1900

Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;

1 Corinthians 15:2 KJV 1900

By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.

Colossians 1:21–23 KJV 1900

Hebrews 6:4–9 KJV 1900

For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned. But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.

Hebrews 10:38 KJV 1900

Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

The one who permanently falls away demonstrates that he did not belong to the Lord in the first place (Heb. 12:5-8).

Hebrews 12:5–8 KJV 1900

If a professing Christian murders someone, it probably proves that he was not genuinely saved.

Revelation 21:8 is similar to 1 John 3:9.

Revelation 21:8 KJV 1900

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

1 John 3:9 KJV 1900

Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.

These passages are not talking about an act of sin but a way of life of sin.

If these passages are referring to an act of sin, no one can be saved.

It is obvious from other passages that a Christian can commit any act of sin, including idolatry and adultery (1 John 1:8-10).

1 John 1:8–10 KJV 1900

This is why we are often warned not to commit these evils (1 Cor. 6:18; 10:6,14; 1 John 5:21).

1 Corinthians 6:18 KJV 1900

Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.

1 Corinthians 10:6 KJV 1900

Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

1 Corinthians 10:14 KJV 1900

Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

1 John 5:21 KJV 1900

Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

Salvation is to be placed into an entirely and eternally new position in Jesus Christ.

The old flesh cannot be redeemed; it can only be condemned and crucified.

Our new position in Christ is that our old man is dead and we rise to new life in Jesus Christ.

The law can no longer condemn us.

Please study Romans 1-8 very carefully, for it holds the key to understanding salvation properly, as well as the proper place of sin and the law in the Christian’s life.

Romans 1–8 KJV 1900

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end you may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of persons with God. For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God, And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law; And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law. Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God. What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just. What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes. Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara’s womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Salvation requires perfection, and the only perfection that we can ever have is that which we receive from Jesus Christ because of the Propitiation He purchased on Calvary.

Even one sin will keep me out of Heaven, but, praise God, I do not have any sin in Christ.

He has taken it all away forever.

James 2:19 KJV 1900

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

Colossians 1:14 KJV 1900

In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Ephesians 1–3 KJV 1900

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

Hebrews 9:10 KJV 1900

Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.

1 Peter 1:18–23 KJV 1900

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

1 Peter 2:6 (KJV 1900)

Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

1 Peter 2:24–25 KJV 1900

Also allow us to point out the The security of election ( 1 Peter 1:2-5 )

1 Peter 1:2–5 KJV 1900

- The main purpose of this revelation is to encourage the believer in his standing with God.

That I am elect of God, foreknown of God, is a teaching that is glorious beyond comprehension in its practical application.

I am the object of God’s saving love.

The eternal Triune God knew me before the world was made.

He loved me; He included me in His eternal plan; He made me in the womb according to His blueprint (Ps 139:13-16 );

Psalm 139:13–16 KJV 1900

For thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, When I was made in secret, And curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; And in thy book all my members were written, Which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.

He controlled the details of my birth and life to bring me to salvation and to prepare me for His will; His Spirit sanctified me by reproving me of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:7-11 ),

John 16:7–11 KJV 1900

Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

drawing me (John 12:32 ),

John 12:32 KJV 1900

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

witnessing to me of Christ (Acts 1:8 ,

Acts 1:8 KJV 1900

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

and calling me to repentance and faith (Acts 1:18; 20:21 ; 2 Peter 3:9 ).

Acts 1:18 KJV 1900

Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.

Acts 20:21 KJV 1900

Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 3:9 KJV 1900

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

When Christ died on the cross He had me in mind.

Every believer can say with Paul that Christ “loved me, and gave himself for me” (Ga. 2:20).

Galatians 2:20 KJV 1900

Every believer can say with David that God’s thoughts toward me are without number (Ps. 139:17-18 ).

Psalm 139:17–18 KJV 1900

How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: When I awake, I am still with thee.

As a believer, I can consider myself and know that God formed me in the womb as His elect. I can look back at my whole life and see that God led me all the way as His elect.

In Romans 8:28-29, foreknowledge and predestination (or election) are connected with God working all things together for good to them that love Him, to them who are the called according to His purpose.

Romans 8:28–29 KJV 1900

This is not wishful thinking or blind mysticism; it is the teaching of God’s infallible Word. Every born again believer can delight in the fact that he is the elect of God.

- Election promises the security of the believer.

We have touched on some of these things already, but here we want to bring together all of the elements of security that are mentioned in this passage.

- The believer is secure because he is elect (1 Pe. 1:2 ).

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

No matter how you define the basis of election, the fact remains that the believer is elect of God.

It is plainly stated in Scripture, which cannot be broken.

The believer has been the object of God’s saving grace from eternity.

- The believer is secure because of the sanctification of the Spirit (1 Pe. 1:2 ).

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

He that was foreknown by the Father has been brought to saving faith by the Spirit.

- The believer is secure because of the blood of Christ.

As we have seen, the blood of Christ is precious, valuable The price of the sinner’s redemption is perfectly sufficient to take away all sin.

- The believer is secure because of the multiplication of grace and peace (1 Pe. 1:2 ).

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

In the very heart of his teaching about election, Peter pronounces, “Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.” If grace and peace are multiplied to me by God, then I am secure!

The term “multiplied” emphasizes the greatness of the grace and peace that I possess.

It is God’s will that the conscious, experiential blessing of salvation increase throughout my earthly sojourn (and forever), and not merely by addition, but by multiplication!

“Multiplied” is the Greek plethuno, meaning “to be multiplied, increased in number, in magnitude, extent” (Complete Word Study Dictionary).

It is translated “abound” (Mt. 24:12), Grace is God’s unmerited favor; it is the opposite of something that is earned or deserved (Ro. 11:6; Eph. 2:8-9).

Matthew 24:12 KJV 1900

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.

Romans 11:6 KJV 1900

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

Ephesians 2:8–9 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Peace is the product of being reconciled to God.

Before salvation, I am at enmity with God, but because of salvation I am at peace with Him.

If I have God’s grace and peace, I don’t need anything else.

I am perfectly secure.

As Paul says in Romans 8, since God has justified us by Christ’s atonement, who can condemn us?

Romans 8 KJV 1900

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

“If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” (Ro. 8:31-32).

Romans 8:31–32 KJV 1900

- The believer is secure because of God’s “abundant mercy” (1 Pe. 1:3 ).

1 Peter 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Man’s sin is great, but God’s mercy in Christ is greater. It is abundant, super-abounding, multiplied. “But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound” (Ro. 5:20).

Romans 5:20 KJV 1900

Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:

- The believer is secure because salvation is “a lively hope” (1 Pe. 1:3 ).

1 Peter 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

The believer’s hope is a living, sure, confident hope. Compare Heb. 6:19, “Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast...” It is hope unclouded by doubt.

Hebrews 6:19 KJV 1900

Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

- The believer is secure because of “the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Pe. 1:3 ).

1 Peter 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

The resurrection proved that God accepted Christ’s offering for sin and guarantees that sin has been put away.

“Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification” (Ro. 4:25).

Romans 4:25 KJV 1900

Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

- The believer is secure because he has “an inheritance” that is reserved in heaven for him (1 Pe. 1:4 ).

1 Peter 1:4 KJV 1900

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

Salvation is a very big thing. It is a finished thing, not a preliminary thing. It is a possession, not a possibility.

It is a fully paid for thing.

It is receiving the purchased gift of an eternal inheritance.

Every believer can say, “I am a joint-heir with Christ, and my great inheritance is already in heaven and is reserved for me.”

How secure! We will look at this inheritance under the next point in these studies on election.

- The believer is secure because he is “kept by the power of God” (1 Pe. 1:5 ).

1 Peter 1:5 KJV 1900

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

The keeping of the believer is God’s work.

The word “kept” is the Greek phroureo, which is a military word meaning “to guard.”

See 2 Co. 11:32 , where a garrison of Roman soldiers guarded a city.

2 Corinthians 11:32 KJV 1900

In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me:

It refers to a strong and alert sentinel, and in this case, the sentinel is almighty God!

I am not saved by my work, and I cannot keep myself by my work.

It is all God’s power, and it is all by faith.

“For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith” (Ro. 1:17).

Romans 1:17 KJV 1900

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

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Eternal Security and Problem Passages Extra

Eternal Security and Problem Passages

Eternal security is the Bible confidence that every born again believer has perfect, complete, eternal salvation in Jesus Christ.

As soon as a sinner receives Christ, he possesses full, unending salvation.

To have Christ is to have a secure position before God (1 Jn. 5:10-13).

Though the Bible does not use the term “security” to describe the believer’s relationship in Christ, it leaves no doubt that the child of God is eternally safe in Christ.

Eternal security refers only to those who are born again through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

It does not refer to hypocrites or to those who are merely dabbling in the things of Christ.

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Those who permanently fall away have never been born again.

I) HOW WE CAN BE SURE TRUE CHRISTIANS ARE ETERNALLY SECURE.

1. Because of the terms used to describe salvation.

“eternal life” (Jn. 3:16; 1 Jn. 5:11);

“full assurance” (He. 6:11; Col. 2:2);

“strong consolation” (He. 6:18);

“hope ... sure and stedfast” (He. 6:19).

2. Because of what we are.

All of the following are spoken of in the present tense; this is the present condition of each true believer

(1) Forgiven (Ro. 4:7; 1 Jn. 2:12).

(2) Justified (Ro. 5:1,9; Tit. 3:7).

(3) Reconciled (Ro. 5:10).

(4) Risen with Christ (Ro. 6:3-6; Col. 3:1,2).

(5) A child of God forever (Ro. 8:15; Ga. 4:4-7; 1 Jn. 3:1).

(6) Sanctified in Christ (1 Co. 1:2).

(7) New creation (2 Co. 5:17).

(8) Accepted in the beloved (Ep. 1:6).

(9) Saved (Ep. 2:8,9; 2 Ti. 1:9).

(10) Light in the Lord (Ep. 5:8).

(11) Made fit for Heaven (Col. 1:12).

(12) Complete in Him (Col. 2:10).

(13) Citizens of Heaven (Ph. 3:20).

(14) Children of light (1 Th. 5:5).

(15) Elect (1 Pe. 1:2).

(16) Born again (1 Pe. 1:2,23).

(17) Sanctified once for all (He. 10:10).

(18) Perfected forever (He. 10:14).

(19) Passed from death unto life (1 Jn. 3:14).

3. Because of where we are.

(1) In God’s family (Ga. 3:26; 1 Jn. 3:2).

(2) Brought near (Ep. 2:13).

(3) In the heavenlies with Christ (Ep. 2:5-6).

(4) Translated into the kingdom of His dear Son (Col. 1:13).

4. Because of what we have.

(1) Eternal life (Jn. 3:16).

(2) Peace with God (Ro. 5:1).

(3) An Intercessor in Heaven (Ro. 8:34).

(4) All spiritual blessings (Ep. 1:3).

(5) Forgiveness of sins (Ep. 1:7; Col. 1:14; 2:13).

(6) Sealing of the Holy Spirit (Ep. 1:12-14).

(7) Access to God (Ep. 2:18).

(8) Everlasting consolation (2 Th. 2:16).

(9) Eternal glory (2 Ti. 2:10).

(10) Eternal redemption (He. 9:12).

(11) Mercy (1 Pe. 2:10).

(12) An Advocate with the Father (1 Jn. 2:1-2).

5. Because of what is past.

(1) Condemnation (Jn. 5:24).

(2) The law of sin and death (Ro. 8:2).

(3) Death and wrath (Col. 3:3; Ro. 6:11; 1 Th. 5:9).

(4) Night and darkness (1 Th. 5:5).

6. Because of our promises.

(1) Never perish (Jn. 10:27-28).

(2) Shall never die (Jn. 11:26).

(3) The glory of God (Ro. 5:2).

This speaks of Christ’s kingdom glory.

(4) Shall be saved from wrath (Ro. 5:9).

(5) Glorious liberty of the children of God (Ro. 8:21).

(6) Redemption of the body (Ro. 8:23-24; Phil . 3:21).

(7) Predestinated to be conformed to the image of Christ (Ro. 8:28-29).

(8) Cannot be separated from God’s love (Ro. 8:31-39).

(9) God shall confirm you unto the end (1 Co. 1:8).

(10) He that hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Phil . 1:6).

(11) Shall appear with Christ in glory (Col. 3:3-4).

(12) Delivered from the wrath to come (1 Th. 1:10).

(13) Not appointed to wrath but to salvation (1 Th. 5:9).

(14) Eternal inheritance (He. 9:15).

(15) Incorruptible inheritance (1 Pe. 1:4).

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II)HOW DO WE KNOW THESE BLESSINGS CANNOT BE LOST? 1. The blessings of salvation cannot be lost because of the nature of salvation:

(1) Salvation is eternal (Jn. 3:16,36).