How does John 10:28 assure believers of eternal security in Christ? Today’s Verse “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand.” (John 10:28) Security Wrapped in Three Firm Statements • “I give” – salvation is a present, completed gift, not a future wage • “eternal life” – by definition unending; if it could be lost, it would not be eternal • “never perish… no one can snatch” – double safeguard: internal guarantee and external protection The Gift that Cannot Expire • Jesus is the Giver; the sheep only receive • A gift once transferred belongs permanently to the recipient (Romans 11:29) • Because the life is “eternal,” its duration is identical to God’s own life—forever Perishing Ruled Out Forever • “Never” (Greek ou mē) is the strongest negative possible, shutting the door on every “what-if” scenario • Eternal ruin is off the table; judgment has already been borne by the Shepherd (Isaiah 53:5) Held Tight in the Shepherd’s Hand • His hand pictures power (Isaiah 41:10) and closeness (John 10:14) • No created being—human or demonic—outranks His grip (Colossians 1:16-17) • Safety depends on His strength, not ours Harmony with the Rest of Scripture • John 6:37 – “the one who comes to Me I will never drive away.” • Romans 8:38-39 – “will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” • 1 Peter 1:4 – “an inheritance imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you.” • 1 John 5:11 – “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” Each passage echoes the same truth: life given by God is guarded by God. Living in the Comfort of Security • Rest—freedom from nagging fear releases joyful worship • Grow—confidence fuels obedience; sanctification thrives in assurance • Witness—certainty about your own salvation makes the gospel invitation credible and compelling Eternal security is not wishful thinking; it is the Shepherd’s own promise, sealed by His hand and His life. |
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