Topical Encyclopedia Eternal Security, often referred to as "once saved, always saved," is a theological doctrine that asserts that once a person is truly saved, they cannot lose their salvation. This belief is rooted in the understanding of God's grace, the nature of salvation, and the promises found in Scripture.Biblical Foundation The doctrine of Eternal Security is supported by various passages in the Bible that emphasize the permanence of salvation for believers. One of the key verses is John 10:28-29, where Jesus states, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand." This passage highlights the security provided by both the Son and the Father, ensuring that believers are eternally secure. Another significant passage is found in Romans 8:38-39, where the Apostle Paul writes, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." This assurance underscores the belief that nothing can sever the relationship between the believer and God. Ephesians 1:13-14 also contributes to the understanding of Eternal Security: "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory." The sealing of the Holy Spirit is seen as a guarantee of the believer's eternal inheritance. Theological Implications The doctrine of Eternal Security is closely linked to the concepts of grace and the sovereignty of God. It emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, not based on human effort or merit, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This underscores the belief that since salvation is initiated and completed by God, it cannot be undone by human actions. Furthermore, the perseverance of the saints is a related concept, suggesting that those who are truly saved will continue in faith and obedience. Philippians 1:6 supports this idea: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." Controversies and Challenges While Eternal Security is a comforting doctrine for many, it is not without its controversies. Some argue that it may lead to complacency or moral laxity, as individuals might believe they can live in sin without consequence. However, proponents of Eternal Security maintain that true believers will exhibit a transformed life, as evidenced by passages like 1 John 3:9: "No one born of God practices sin, because God’s seed abides in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God." Others challenge the doctrine by pointing to passages that seem to suggest the possibility of falling away, such as Hebrews 6:4-6. However, those who uphold Eternal Security often interpret these passages as referring to individuals who were never truly saved or as hypothetical warnings meant to encourage perseverance. Conclusion Eternal Security remains a significant and debated doctrine within Christian theology. It offers assurance to believers of their unbreakable relationship with God, grounded in His promises and the finished work of Christ. Topical Bible Verses John 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Topicalbible.org John 5:24 1 John 5:13 Romans 6:23 John 10:28 Revelation 3:5 Library That There is no Security against Temptation in this Life Foretastes of the Heavenly Life Election The Security of the Church Treatise vii. On the Mortality. To-Morrow To-Morrow God Has not by his Eternal Decree Determined Future and Contingent ... The Thirty-Fifth Chapter: There is no Security from Temptation in ... For we Offer Prayer for the Safety of Our Princes to the Eternal.. ... Resources What is the doctrine of eternal Sonship and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is eternal life? | GotQuestions.org How can I gain an eternal perspective on life? | GotQuestions.org Eternal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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