Articles
Once Saved, Always Saved?
Throughout time there have always been discussions on the topic of Salvation. One of the many things discussed about salvation is the belief of “once saved, always saved.” We all know people who believe the doctrine of "Once saved, always saved." This is the idea that once a person becomes a child of God, there is no sin that they can commit to lose their salvation. Many people today find this doctrine to be of great comfort because it in essence relieves them of all personal responsibility in their relationship with God. After all, if I am saved, and there is nothing that I can do to be lost, then it doesn't really matter how I behave or act, so I need not worry that much about it. This however, is not the case. This doctrine is dangerous to others because it leaves people will a false sense of hope. I want us to look at this topic a little closer and see what the scriptures have to say about the idea of “once saved, always saved.”
As we begin to think about this subject, I believe it is important to first illustrate how one is saved. The Bible teaches that we must follow the Lord’s plan of salvation in order to be saved. We learn that we must first Hear the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). When we hear the Word of God it produces faith. This faith leads us to Believe that Jesus is the Christ (Jn. 8:24). Once we believe that Jesus is the Christ then we must be willing to Repent (Lk. 13:3). After Repentance we must confess with the mouth that we believe that Jesus is the Christ (Rom. 10:9-10). Finally after that confession is made we must be Baptized (Acts 2:38). This is the way the Lord has told us find salvation through Jesus Christ. Have you followed the Lord’s plan of Salvation?
There are many who believe that once you are baptized, then there is nothing you can do to lose your salvation. However, this is not the case. As you read and study the New Testament you find that there are many passages that teach that you can fall from grace. That is you can lose your salvation (Gal. 5:4; Heb. 6:4-6; Heb. 10:26; II Pet. 2:20-22, Rev. 2:10). Let us examine a couple of these verses. First notice what is said in Hebrews 10:26-27. The text reads, “For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.” This passage clearly shows that one who is saved cannot continue to live life as they please. They must always live faithfully to the Lord if they wish to receive the crown of life. In fact, notice as well what the scripture says in the later part of Revelation 2:10. The text reads, “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
Do you believe in the doctrine of “once saved, always saved?” If so I urge you to read and study further upon what the Word of God says. If one truly believes this doctrine they will be eternally lost, because they will not regard sin as the awful and terrible thing that it truly is. A Christian may be forgiven after having committed sin based upon repentance and confession, but one will not be forgiven while actively pursuing a life of sin.
