salvation as an event
- Salvation consists of several perspectives; however, it begins with an event. That event is declared in scripture Romans 10:9-10[1] is when one makes the heart level decision to believe (accept) the gift provided through faith in Jesus Christ’s birth as the only Son of God; Sin-free life; suffering; crucifixion (death); burial; resurrection; ascension. This heart level decision to accept salvation provided by Jesus Christ is called Repentance. God set in motion this plan from the point that man realizes and accepts he needs a savior and that he (sinful man) could be reconciled to God the Father. To begin this plan/journey it requires one to recognize, realize, acknowledge in the deepest place in one’s heart – godly sorrow the sin that he has committed against God and turn both heart and mind away from that sinful way/life and go in the opposite direction. This godly sorrow and completely turning away from it and moving in the opposite direction is called repentance. There is repentance to turn to the new life and there is ongoing (lifetime) repentance in the new life to grow in righteousness in Christ. Then confess the same with one’s mouth. Believing unto righteousness. Further, scripture[2] declares that salvation is something that must be worked out in “fear and trembling”.
[1] 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Romans 10:9-10
[2] 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 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. Philippians 2:9-12
salvation, Knowledge of God, self-examination, and repentance are lifetime intertwined works
Salvation is a transformation and continuing renewal of one's mind as the new creation that one becomes upon the acceptance of Jesus Christ as savior. Growth in knowledge of God requires an on-going examination by the believer against the new knowledge he acquires to see if it is becoming real in his life. Repentance is required as one grows in knowledge of God. Fear and trembling is a motivator and encouragement to stay in the faith all along the journey of life.
Let's be clear - Let's talk!
It's very important for the believer to have a clear understanding of these four topics: Repentance; Salvation; Knowledge of God; and Self-examination. If you would like to discuss any or all of these further complete the Yes, I Want to Talk Form below!