EternalSecurity

Eternal Security & Apostasy:
Can a Child of God Fall from Grace and Be Lost?

One of the major points of Calvinism is "the eternal security of the believer" or the "perseverance of the saints." It is also called "impossibility of apostasy," or simply "once saved, always saved." The doctrine teaches that it is impossible for a child of God to so sin as to fall from grace and be eternally lost. It is based on the belief that salvation is unconditional, so there is nothing a person can do to be saved; and once he is saved there is nothing he can do to be lost. What does the Bible teach about falling from grace?

Introduction:

Many people believe that, when a person becomes a child of God, afterward it is impossible for him to so sin as to fall from grace and be eternally lost.

This doctrine is one of the five major points of Calvinism. It is often called "the eternal security of the believer," "perseverance of the saints," "impossibility of apostasy," or simply "once saved, always saved." Several major denominations officially believe the doctrine, though some do not emphasize it and as a result the members may not be aware of it.
The Westminster Confession adopted by most Presbyterian churches, states:

"They whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called and sanctified by his Spirit, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally saved … Nevertheless they may, through the temptations of Satan … fall into grievous sins…" (Book of Confessions of the United Presbyterian Church, 1967 Ed., Sec. 6.086-6.088).

The Philadelphia Confession, adopted by many Baptist churches, is almost identical to the above.
Sam Morris, "Pastor" of the First Baptist Church, Stamford, Texas, expressed the doctrine in its most extreme form as follows:

"We take the position that a Christian's sins do not damn his soul! The way a Christian lives, what he says, his character, his conduct, or his attitude toward other people have nothing whatever to do with the salvation of his soul … All the prayers a man may pray, all the Bibles he may read, all the churches he may belong to, all the services he may attend, all the sermons he may practice, all the debts he may pay, all the ordinances he may observe, all the laws he may keep, all the benevolent acts he may perform will not make his soul one whit safer; and all the sins he may commit from idolatry to murder will not make his soul in any more danger … The way a man lives has nothing whatever to do with the salvation of his soul." (Morris, A Discussion Which Involves a Subject Pertinent to All Men, pp. 1,2; via Handbook of Religious Quotations, p. 24)

The purpose of this study is to examine what the Bible says about falling from grace.

It would be very comforting if this doctrine were true. However, if it is not true, then it would be a very dangerous doctrine because it would give people a false sense of security. People would not be on their guard against sin, and may not see any need to repent of sins, if they thought they would still be saved eternally despite their sins. If however they will be lost for sins they do not repent of, then such people are in grave danger. Surely it is important for us to know what the Bible teaches.
We can all agree that there is security for those who serve God faithfully. If we study God's word diligently and honestly, if we strive to overcome sin in our lives, and if we diligently repent and ask forgiveness for our sins, then we definitely have assurance and security regarding our eternal destiny. The question, however, is whether it is possible for a child of God to cease being faithful, to become disobedient, fail to repent, and so be lost.

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Part 1: Evidence that a Child of God Can Sin and Be Lost

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A. Passages Warning Christians about the Danger of Sin

The Bible teaches that there are conditions a person must meet in order to receive forgiveness and become a child of God. Likewise there are conditions one must meet to continue faithful after becoming a child of God. Many passages warn us to be careful to meet these conditions else we will not receive eternal life. In each case we will note first that the passage is addressed to children of God. Then we will note that we are warned to avoid sin or we will be lost.

 

John 15:1-6 - We must bear fruit or be cast off.

 15 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. ² Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away;^[a] and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. ³ You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. ⁴ Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.⁵ “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. ⁶ If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

Disciples are described as branches "in Christ" (v2,5, etc.) who have been cleansed by His word (v3). But if they don't bear fruit and abide in Christ (v2,4-6), they will be taken away (v2), cast into the fire and burned (v6). (Abiding in Jesus and bearing fruit requires obedience - I John 3:6,24; John 15:10; Gal. 5:19ff; etc.)

Romans 8:12-17 - We must live according to the Spirit, not the flesh.

¹² Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
¹³ 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.
¹⁴ For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
¹⁵ 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.
¹⁶ The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
¹⁷ 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.

This is addressed to children of God (v16).
We are warned not to live according to the deeds of the flesh but be led by the Spirit. If we live according to the flesh, we will die (v13). This cannot be physical death since we all die physically regardless of how we live. This death is the opposite of the life we receive if we follow the Spirit.
To be heirs of Christ, we must be led of the Spirit (v14) and suffer with Christ (v17). It is conditional and depends on our life.

Galatians 6:7-9 - We must sow to the Spirit, not the flesh.

⁷ Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.⁸ For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.⁹ And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

This is addressed to members of the church (1:2), sons of God by faith (3:26). [Cf. 4:6]
We will reap as we sow. If we sow to the spirit (i.e., if we produce the fruit of the Spirit - 5:22-25), we will reap eternal life (v8). If we sow to the flesh (do the works of the flesh - 5:19-21), we reap corruption (6:8), which is the opposite of eternal life. In this case, we cannot inherit the kingdom of God (5:21).
We reap eternal life if we don't grow weary in doing good (v9). Note: "Be not deceived." Yet "once saved, always saved" is a doctrine that deceives many into thinking they will still reap eternal life even if they sow to the flesh.

1 Corinthians 9:27 & 10:12 - We must control our bodies and avoid sinning like Israel did.

1 Corinthians 9:27 ²⁷ 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. 1 Corinthians 10:12¹² Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

9:25-27 - Paul, who was an apostle and therefore a child of God, was striving to gain the imperishable crown (v25). He had to discipline his body and bring it into subjection lest he himself be disqualified (NKJV; "a castaway" - KJV; "rejected" - ASV). (KJV elsewhere translates this word "reprobate" - 2 Cor. 13:5; Rom. 1:28; 2 Tim. 3:8; Tit. 1:16).
10:1-12 - Israel is an example showing us the importance of avoiding sin. The people to whom this warning applies ("we," "us") include the church, sanctified saints (1:2; cf. 1:9), and the apostle Paul. 

This is an example and admonition to us (v6,11). We should not lust after evil (v6), commit idolatry (v7), commit fornication (v8), etc. One who thinks he stands, must take heed lest he fall (v12). In context, this means he will not receive the crown Paul described (9:25-27). 6:9,10 show that people guilty of these sins won't receive the kingdom of God.
Note that a person who believes in "once saved, always saved" thinks he cannot fall. This passage is addressed to just such people and shows that they are the ones in the very greatest danger that they will fall!

Hebrews 3:6,11-14; 4:9,11 - We must avoid rebelling like Israel.

This is addressed to "holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling" (v1).
Israel failed to enter God's rest because they lacked faith and obedience. We too must guard lest we have an evil heart of unbelief, departing from God (v12), and become hardened through the deceitfulness of sin (v13). 

To partake with Christ, we must hold fast our confidence (faith) firm to the end (3:6,14). If we do so depart, we will not enter the rest God has for us (4:9,11). Note that receiving the eternal reward is conditional on continued faithfulness.

Hebrews 10:26-31,39 - We must avoid willful sin.

This is speaking to those who know the truth (v26) and have been sanctified by the blood (v29). It is discussing the Lord's judgment on "His people" (v30). 

We are warned not to sin willfully (v26). As long as we go on sinning willfully (NASB - v26), there is no sacrifice for sin. (This is not discussing what will happen if such people repent and change but what our condition is as long as this conduct continues.) 

Such people are trodding underfoot God's Son (v29), doing despite to the Spirit of grace, counting the blood by which we were sanctified unholy (v29). Their only future is fierceness of fire (v27), sorer punishment than physical death under the law (v28f), vengeance from God (v30). 

This is why we must not shrink back to perdition (v39).

2 Peter 1:8-11; 2:20-22 - We must grow in Christ instead of returning to the world.

1:8-11 - This is spoken to those who have obtained like precious faith (v1), escaped the corruption of the world (v4), and been purged from old sins (v9). 

We must add to our lives the qualities listed (v5-7). If we do, we make our calling and election sure so we don't stumble (v10), but we receive the abundant entrance to the everlasting kingdom (v11). Note there is security for the believer, but it is conditional on growing and adding these qualities. 

2:20-22 - This is still talking to people who have escaped the pollution of the world (v20), knowing the way of righteousness (v21). [cf. v1,15] 

We are warned not to become entangled again in the world (v20), turning from the holy command (v21). If we do, we are worse off than we were before we knew the truth (v20). We are like a dog returning to vomit or a sow returning to mire (v22). [cf., v1,3] 

But if "once saved, always saved," then this dog is much better off after returning to the vomit than he was before.

Romans 6:12-18 - We must not let sin reign in our bodies.

These were baptized into Christ (v3,4), set free from sin, and become servants of righteousness (v18). 

They are warned not to let sin reign in their bodies nor present their members as instruments of sin (v12,13). The result of that would be death (v16). This must be spiritual again, since all die physically. The wages of sin, even for those here addressed, is death, in contrast to eternal life (v23).

Hebrews 6:4-8 - We must avoid falling away.

This is addressed to those once enlightened, who tasted the heavenly gift and the good word of God and were partakers of the Holy Spirit (v4,5). 

We are warned not to fall away (v6). If they continue in this pattern of life (implied), they cannot be restored. They are crucifying Jesus afresh and putting Him to an open shame (v6). Their destiny is to be burned like a field of thorns (v8).

Revelation 3:5; Exodus 32:30-33 - We must avoid having our names removed from the Book of Life.

Those whose names are in the book of Life will enter the eternal city, but those not in it are cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 21:27; 20:12-15). But people whose names are in the book, may be removed because of sin (Ex. 32:30-33). Those guilty of sin CANNOT enter the city (Rev. 21:27). But those who overcome will not be blotted out of the book (Rev. 3:5). [Cf. Rev. 22:18,19] 

Why would God continually warn of the danger of sin and being lost if it cannot happen? Do human parents warn their children to be careful how they flap their wings lest they fly too high and crash into the moon? God is not the author of confusion (I Cor. 14:33). Why waste time warning us about dangers that cannot happen anyway?

B. Bible Examples of Christians Who Sinned & Stood Condemned.

The Bible not only warns us to be on guard lest we fail to meet the conditions for remaining faithful, but it also mentions specific people who did fall. This is not just a theoretical possibility. It is a practical reality. In fact, it has happened to many people, and could happen to us if we are not diligent.

Genesis 3:1-6 - Adam and Eve

God said if they ate of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they would surely die (2:16,17). 

3:4 - Satan said if Eve ate, she would not die. She ate and we know the result. This event is used in 2 Cor. 11:3 as an example to us of the danger of falling into sin.
Satan was the first one to teach the doctrine of "impossibility of apostasy." God stated the consequence of sin, but Satan denied that the consequence would follow. Today God has stated the consequences of sin, and Satan uses preachers to deny the consequences. The doctrine of "once saved, always saved" was originated and first preached by Satan himself.

The nation of Israel

The Old Testament contains countless examples in which God's people sinned and fell from God's favor, both individually and collectively. (Lev. 26; Deut. 28-30; I Sam. 12:10; chaps. 10-16; 28:15,16; I Chron. 28:9; 2 Chron. 15:2; 24:20; Isa. 1:28; Jer. 2:19,32 cf. Psa. 9:17; Jer. 3:6-14; 8:4-13; 9:12-16; Hos. 9:10; cf. Acts 7:37-43; Rev. 21:8) 

The fact these are in the Old Testament does not diminish the lesson for us. The New Testament expressly warns us that the same principle applies to us - I Cor. 10:1-12; Heb. chap. 3,4. With regard to the possibility of God's people sinning and being lost, the Old and New Testaments teach the same.

Christians who lost their faith

Hebrews 3:12 warned of the danger of developing an evil heart of unbelief like Israel. Many New Testament examples show people to whom this very thing happened:
2 Timothy 2:16-18 - Hymenaeus & Philetus strayed and overthrew the faith of some. (Faith cannot be overthrown in those who do not first possess it.)
1 Timothy 1:18-20 - Timothy should hold the faith and not be like Hymenaeus and Alexander, who made shipwreck concerning the faith and committed blasphemy.
1 Timothy 5:8 - Anyone (including a child of God) who doesn't care for his family has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 

What happens to people who lose their faith? Faith is essential to salvation. Those who lose it are no better off than those who never had it.
Hebrews 11:6 - Without faith it is impossible to please God (the application in the context of this book is to those who had faith but turn from it - 3:12; 10:30).
Revelation 21:8 - Unbelievers will be in the lake of fire.

Acts 8:12-24 - Simon the Sorcerer

¹² But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

¹³ Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

¹⁴ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:

¹⁵ Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:

¹⁶ (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)

¹⁷ Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

¹⁸ And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,

¹⁹ Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

²⁰ But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

²¹ Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.

²² Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.

²³ For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.

²⁴ Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.

 Simon believed and was baptized (v13). This is what Jesus said one must do to be saved (Mark 16:16). This is what the other Samaritans did (v12). Simon did "ALSO" the same things the others did. If they were saved, he was saved. If he was not saved, then none of the others were saved. 

But Simon later sinned. His heart was not right (v21), he was guilty of wickedness (v22), and was in the gall of bitterness and the bond of iniquity (v23). As a result, he would perish (v20) if he did not repent and pray (v22).

Galatians 5:1-4 - The Judaizers

These people were children of God (3:26; cf. 1:2-4; 4:6), who had been set free by Christ (5:1). They had to be in grace if they fell from it (5:4).
They sinned in that they desired to go back to the Old Testament yoke of bondage (5:1) and bound circumcision. As a result, Christ profited them nothing (v2), they were severed from Christ (v4), fallen from grace (v4). They were not obeying truth (v7).
These were children of God who were in God's grace but then fell from that grace so that Christ profited them nothing and they were severed from Christ. Can one receive eternal life if he is severed from Christ (Eph. 1:3-7) and fallen from the grace that saves (Eph. 2:8)? 

"Once saved, always saved" is a tempting doctrine because it is comforting.

It tells people what they would like to hear. We would all like to think that, even if we or our loved ones fall into sin, they will still receive eternal life.
But it is a false doctrine because it clearly contradicts Scriptures in nearly every book of the Bible.
It is also a dangerous doctrine because it leads people to think they are safe even if they don't examine their lives, don't study the Bible, and don't repent of sin. Furthermore, it leads preachers to not warn sinners that they need to repent.
I have personally known people who told me of terrible sins they deliberately and knowingly committed, justifying themselves because they believed it would not affect their salvation. I have known teachers who justified those very people saying that they would not have lost their salvation even when committed those sins.
Suppose a child is about to cross a busy street. Shouldn't the parent warn the child to look carefully for traffic before they cross the street? People who advocate "once saved, always saved" are like a parent who not only does not warn the child, but worse yet tells him there is nothing to worry about because he can't get hit, and if he does get hit, he won't die!
Why should the child be warned? Because there is a very real danger. And the situation is most dangerous if the child is not on guard. The worst thing anyone can do to the child is to tell him there is no danger. Yet that is exactly what preachers do when they teach "once saved, always saved." And this has eternal consequences, because souls are at stake.
Nevertheless, if the child is careful, he can cross the street safely despite the danger. So the best favor anyone can do for the child is to warn him of the danger, so he can avoid it. That is exactly what we do when we preach the Bible passages that warn Christians to avoid sin. It is not that we believe Christians have no security, but we know people are only secure when they are aware of the dangers, so they can be on guard.

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Part 2: Evidence Offered to Show that a Child of God Cannot So Sin as to Be Lost

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Folks are sometimes confused by passages that are used to defend "once saved, always saved." We need to understand the arguments and how to answer them. Some of these passages do offer hope and security to believers, but they are conditional passages, and these conditions are often overlooked. If we study the verses in light of what we have already learned we will see that, while they do give security to those who are faithful, they do not teach unconditional "once saved, always saved." 

John 10:28,29 - "They shall never perish … no one shall snatch them out of my hand"

This is a wonderful promise. But is it, as the preacher said, so unconditional that a person's soul cannot be lost no matter how he lives?

The context gives conditions - v27,28.

Note the word "and" repeated. Receiving life and never perishing are tied to hearing Jesus and following him. These are conditions, exactly like we have been teaching.
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus protects His sheep so no one can destroy them, as long as the sheep hear Jesus and follow Him. But what if they cease to hear and follow, as we have learned elsewhere they can do?

"Pluck" refers to an outside force.

"Pluck" (KJV) or "snatch" (NKJV, ASV) means "to seize, carry off by force" (Thayer), like the thief might do (v10,12). Neither Satan nor any outside force can steal you from the Lord, as long as you meet the conditions.
But we must "resist the devil," and then we have assurance he will flee from us (James 4:7). What happens if, through negligence or willful rebellion, we wander away from the protection of Jesus' fold?

Sheep can stray from the shepherd's protection.

Luke 15:3-7 - 100 sheep belonged to the shepherd (v4,6), but one became lost.
Acts 20:28-30 - Wolves may enter among the flock, speak perverse things, and draw away the disciples. They cannot compel us to follow them and be lost. We may still choose to follow the Lord's voice. But false teachers can lure us, attract us, and tempt us.
I Peter 5:8,9 - Satan is a roaring lion seeking to devour us. If we do not withstand him, he can capture and destroy us. But we can withstand him if we have faith and vigilance. This is what Jesus promised in John 10. (John 17; 6:37-40; I Pet. 2:25).
If sheep cannot possibly stray, even of their own free will, then this would deny our free moral power to choose. We could not become lost even if we wanted to!

1 John 3:9 - One begotten of God "does not sin … he cannot sin"

We must take all the Bible says on any subject (Matt. 4:6,7; Acts 3:22,23).

We have already shown many passages showing that it is possible for a child of God to sin. Many more verses, even in 1 John and addressed to these same people, show this is true:
1 John 1:8,10 - If we say we don't sin, we lie and truth is not in us. This is exactly the condition of some folks who argue for "once saved, always saved"!
1 John 2:1,2 - John wrote so we would avoid sin. Jesus is our propitiation if we do sin. If sin is impossible, why write, and why would we need propitiation?
1 John 2:15-17 - Love not the world. If we do, we don't love the Father (cf. I Cor. 16:22). Why warn us, if it is impossible to be guilty?
1 John 5:21 - Guard yourself from idols. Why, if it is impossible to be guilty of sin?
2 Peter 2:14 - Some children of God (v1,15) "cannot cease from sin"! If I John 3:9 means children of God cannot possibly commit sin, then this passage means these children of God cannot possibly quit sinning!
Clearly 1 John 3:9 does not mean sin is impossible, else we have contradictions in the Bible. In fact, many people who believe "once saved, always saved," will admit sin is possible (see quotes in introduction).

"Does not sin" refers to persisting in the practice of sin.

A true child of God may occasionally commit acts of sin, but he must repent, confess, and be forgiven by Jesus' blood (1 John 1:9; 2:2). He must not continue in the practice of sin. Why not?

"God's seed abides" in the child of God.

The seed that begets us, so we become children of God, is the word of God:
1 Peter 1:23-25 - We are begotten again by the incorruptible seed which is the Word of God.
James 1:18 - We are begotten by the word of truth.
1 John 2:14,24 - The word of God, which we heard, abides in us. [Luke 8:11ff; I Cor. 4:15; I John 1:10; 2:5,7]
How does the this seed abide in us? Can it cease abiding in us?
1 John 1:10 - If we say we do not sin, His word is not in us. We may still know what it says, but we have rejected it.
John 5:38 - If we do not believe Jesus, God's word does not abide in us.
Acts 2:41 - Those who gladly received the word were baptized. Receiving the word requires believing and obeying it. Otherwise we are rejecting it. (I Thess. 2:13)
To have the word abiding in us means to have a receptive attitude toward it, believing and obeying it, applying it in our lives. If this is our attitude, 1 John 3:9 says we will not continue in the practice of sin. Of course not, because to do so would be to reject the word so it no longer abides in us!
Note Psalms 119:11 - Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You! This is exactly what 1 John 3:9 says.
But can we cease believing the word, studying it, and striving to live by it? We have shown that we can. If we do, the seed no longer abides in us, so we practice sin.

"He cannot sin"

Does this mean it is humanly impossible under any circumstances to transgress?
"Can" (Gk DUNAMAI) means: "to be able, have power, whether by virtue of one's own ability and resources, or of state of mind, or through favorable circumstances, or by permission of law and custom" (Thayer).
Examples elsewhere show it does not necessarily mean physical or human impossibility, but rather that law, state of mind, or circumstances do not allow it:
1 Corinthians 10:21 - You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons (it is not lawful).
Acts 4:20 - We cannot but speak the things we have seen and heard (law and state of mind do not permit it).
Mark 2:19 - Sons of the bridechamber cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them (circumstances make it such that no one would do it).
Hence 1 John 3:9 means that, when one has accepted God's word into his heart and so becomes a child of God, his attitude and the principles of the word will not allow him to continue practicing sin. God's word (the seed) has become the guiding principle of his heart, and it would be inconsistent with this to continue practicing sin.
For example, suppose an employer asks a Christian employee to tell a lie. The Christian replies, "I can't do a thing like that." Is it physically impossible? No, but it is completely contrary to his nature as a child of God. As long as his attitude toward God's word is right, he will not do it.

The Body Sins, but the Spirit Does Not

We are told that we may physically do things that violate God's word, but He does not hold our spirit accountable for what the body does.

Those who teach this doctrine are obligated to produce Scripture to prove it.

It is not enough to make the claim. They must give Scripture.
Is the spirit responsible for the good deeds of the body? If so, why not also for the bad deeds?
If they cite Rom. 7:25 & 8:1, note Rom 7:23 and Rom 8:6-17 which show the man is condemned for the sins of the body.

Many Scriptures show that God holds the spirit (inner man) accountable for the sins of the outer man.

1 Corinthians 6:9,10,13,15,18-20 - Fornicators will not inherit the kingdom of God. But this is a sin of the body. The body is a member of Christ, a temple of the Spirit, and belongs to God so it should be used for His glory (this shows the people addressed are children of God, bought with a price, etc.). [cf. 3:16,17]
Mark 7:20-23 - Evil (done by the body) proceeds from the heart and defiles a man. [Prov. 23:7; 4:23]
2 Corinthians 5:10 - We will be judged for deeds done in the body. Our spirits will be held accountable for what the body does.
Romans 6:12,16,23 - People who have been baptized into Christ (v3,4) and made free from sin (v18), must not let sin reign in their mortal bodies. If we do, we are servants of sin and must die (v16,23).
1 Corinthians 9:27 - Paul buffeted his body to bring it in subjection, let he be a castaway.
Romans 8:13 - We must put to death the deeds of the body in order to live. Otherwise, we will die.
[2 Cor. 7:1; Rom. 12:1,2; Gal. 5:19-24; Acts 8:20-22]

Passages that Say We Have Eternal Life

Numerous passages are cited which say we have eternal life: John 10:28; 17:3; 5:24; 3:36; 6:47; 3:16; I John 5:12,13. Some argue that, if we have it, and if it is eternal, then we cannot lose it. If we do, it wasn't eternal.

We have eternal life now only as a promise or hope.

1 John 2:25 - This is the promise He has promised us, even life eternal.
James 1:12 - The crown of life which the Lord promised to those who love Him.
Titus 1:2; 3:7 - The hope of eternal life, which God promised.

We receive eternal life, in the sense of a present possession, only after earthly life is over and then only if we endure faithfully till life is over.

Luke 18:30 - We receive eternal life "in the world to come."
Romans 2:5-7 - Eternal life will be given at the judgment IF we continue patiently in well doing. [This is the same time that the wicked will receive eternal punishment - Matt. 25:46. Does this happen in this life?]
Revelation 2:10 - Be faithful until death and receive the crown of life.
In this life, we "have" eternal life in the sense of a promise or a hope based on faith. But we actually enter eternal life at the judgment if and only if we continue living faithfully till life is over. This is a conditional promise. We will be lost if we fail to meet the conditions.

The proof texts, used to defend "present possession" of eternal life, themselves state conditions to be met.

John 5:24 - He who hears and believes. But we have shown that one can cease doing these.
John 6:47; 3:16,36 - He that believes. But one can cease believing.
1 John 5:13 - V11,12 speak of those who believe on the Son, and life is IN the Son. But we can cease believing and fail to abide in Him (John 15:1-8).
John 10:27,28 - Hear Jesus' voice and follow Him.
John 17:3 - Know God. But one can forget God, turn from Him, and cease to know Him (I John 2:3-6; Jer. 3:21,22; Psa. 9:17; 106;12,21,24).
Note also that saving faith requires obedience, and to cease to obey is to cease to have a saving faith - James 2:14-26; Heb. 10:39; chap. 11; Gal. 5:6; etc.
The fact life is "eternal" does not prove we cannot lose it. "Eternal" describes the nature of the life. It has nothing to do with whether it can or cannot be lost.
Example: Suppose someone offers me a watch guaranteed to work for 50 years, but I must do some task in order to receive it. It is still a "50-year watch" regardless of whether or not I do the job and receive it.

These passages discuss the reward believers will receive as a result of their current state. But they are not discussing what would happen if they change their state.

The passages are not intended to discuss everything about what can happen to a child of God. They are written to help us appreciate the blessings we have, or to encourage people to become children of God. But God does not put all His will in a single verse or passage. We are expected to study other Scripture. When we do, we learn that we ultimately receive the reward only if faithful. It is misusing these verses to teach from them something they do not necessarily mean and which contradicts other passages.
Consider the consequences if we used this reasoning on passages that describe the lost. John 3:36 says unbelievers shall not see life. Shall we conclude this too cannot change (like people argue on the first part of the verse)? If a person is lost, does this prove he can never change and be saved? "Once lost, always lost"? [Cf. John 5:24; Heb. 6:4-8; 10:26ff]
If we can see how unsaved people can change their state and become saved, despite such verses as this, then in the same way we can understand how saved people can change their state and become lost.
This same approach works with most other arguments for "once saved always saved." Consistently applied to passages about lost people, the same arguments would prove "once lost, always lost."

Jesus' Blood Sacrifice Is Sufficient.

Some folks say that Jesus' death is all we need to be saved. If we argue that there are things we need to do to be saved, including living a faithful life, they say we are denying the power of Jesus' death.
We agree Jesus' blood has the power to cleanse all sin. But the question is whether it cleanses conditionally or unconditionally. We cannot earn salvation, but are there conditions we must meet to receive the forgiveness?

Jesus died for all people. If His death is all we need, and people need do nothing at all, then all would be saved.

1 Timothy 2:6 - Jesus gave His life a ransom for all.
Hebrews 2:9 - By the grace of God, Jesus tasted death for all men (the extent of this is shown in v15).
John 3:16 - God gave His Son for the world because of His love.
1 John 2:2 - Jesus is propitiation for the sins, not just of Christians, but for the whole world. [cf. I John 4:14]
Romans 5:18,19 - By Jesus' act of righteousness (His death - v8,9), justification came to all men.
If Jesus' death is "sufficient" and "all we need," then why aren't all men saved, since He died for all? But we know that not all will be saved (Matt. 7:13,14; etc.). So there must be something that distinguishes the saved from the unsaved. There are conditions we must meet.

God is no respecter of persons.

Romans 2:6-11 - God distinguishes the saved from the lost "without respect of persons" or partiality. If Jesus' death was all there was to it, then He must save everybody or else be a respecter of person. Instead, there is a distinction on the basis of our conduct - whether we work evil or continue in doing good.
Acts 10:34,35 - God is no respecter of persons, but those who fear Him and work righteousness are accepted. True, we cannot earn salvation. But there is a way God distinguishes between those who will be saved by His son's blood from those who will not - our faith and works.
When people claim that Jesus' death is all there is to it and people do not need to do anything to be saved, they unknowingly make God a respecter of persons.

If Jesus' blood saves by itself with no conditions to be met, then why is faith necessary?

In practice, everyone admits there are some conditions necessary to be saved by Jesus' blood. Most people admit we must believe. Many agree we must repent and confess Christ. (See John 3:16; 8:24; 2 Pet. 3:9; Rom. 10:9,10; 6:3,4; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark. 16:16; etc.) But these are simply conditions we must meet to receive the benefit of Jesus' death. To admit this is to admit Jesus' death alone, without conditions people must meet, will not save.
But if we agree there are conditions people must meet to be saved, then why object when we point out from the Scriptures that these necessary conditions include baptism and a faithful life? These no more deny the power of Jesus' death than do faith, repentance, etc.
If you can recognize faith, etc., as necessary to salvation without denying the importance of Jesus' death, then in the same way we believe baptism and a faithful life are also necessary without denying the importance of Jesus' death.

The Bible expressly shows that there are conditions children of God must meet to be cleansed by Jesus' blood.

1 John 1:7-9 - Children of God do sin (v8,10). To be cleansed by Jesus' blood, we must "walk in the light" and "confess our sins." To deny this is to deny the clear teaching of Scripture.
Acts 8:22 - A child of God (v12,13) who sinned was clearly told that, to be cleansed of his sin, he must repent and pray. It is Jesus' blood that forgives. But just as there are conditions we must meet to be cleansed and become a child of God, so there are conditions we must meet to be cleansed after we are children of God.

Please note that we have many articles about related subjects on our web site. These include articles about the importance of obedience, election and predestination, original sin and inherited depravity, salvation by faith only, etc. Please see the list of links on website linked to below.

(C) Copyright 1998, David E. Pratte
Local churches and individuals may, within limits, distribute this Bible study guide for free, but not for sale.  Link to this page is here.

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The following article is printed (with permission) from HERE.

Eternal Security or Conditional Security?

No Other Website Has More Information
Explaining Eternal Security
(Link to this page with the words ETERNAL SECURITY)

Dan Corner

[Permission is granted to duplicate this article in its entirety,
but only without additions, alterations or omissions of any kind,
including the author, ministry name and address at the end.
Nothing may be removed from this page including links to other pages.]

The Eternal Security Timebomb   

   
The Devil's Masterpiece
Copyright Evangelical Outreach

Debate Challenge on ETERNAL SECURITY:
I, Dan Corner, openly challenge any and all qualified advocates of eternal security
(also known as the perseverance of the saints) to publicly debate
this issue with me in a fair, equally-timed exchange of ideas.   
Copyright Evangelical Outreach


The common definition of eternal security is, once a person becomes saved by the grace of God he will ALWAYS remain saved. Hence, that is why this teaching is often called once saved always saved. The rest of the eternal security definition, though usually unspoken but understood, is: That Christian will remain saved regardless how far he backslides and plunges into sin, becomes lukewarm and unforgiving, bears no fruit, disowns Jesus and/or apostatizes doctrinally even to the point of becoming an atheist, etc.! If one was ever saved, at any point in his life, he will remain saved and his salvation is never jeopardized under any circumstances, according to them. Though popular, eternal security is an ear-tickling poisonous LIE often wrongly taught under grace, the infinite work of Christ and Jesus' blood, which has caused MULTITUDES of unwary Christians to lower their guard and fall prey to spiritual death. Such twice lost people also do not recognize their vital need of repentance for salvation. Sometimes they will refer to themselves as a Christian alcoholic, Christian addicted to pornography, etc. Such people are actually described in 2 Peter 2:20-22, but spiritually blinded. Though it should never be, the lingering question for many is: "Is once saved always saved or a conditional security the Biblical truth?" While some Bible believers embrace a conditional security in Christ (or NO eternal security) most professing Christians live in no fear of God or concern about sinning as they embrace once saved always saved. Too many continue to be tossed back and forth on this salvation-related issue, but this need not be the case. Below is a vast array of Bible-based teachings on this very crucial issue. They range from spiritual death to imputed righteousness to a works salvation, etc., which dismantles eternal security (or once saved always saved) piece by piece.
Beyond all of that, available here are various anti eternal security audio and video interviews on the radio and TV as well as a few radio debates on eternal security with Dan Corner. He is the author of the 801 page book, "The Believer's Conditional Security: Eternal Security Refuted," the most exhaustive book ever written refuting eternal security. That book has helped many spiritually. "The Myth of Eternal Security" (230 pages) is another powerful book refuting once saved always saved. All of the following will help you better understand this massive problem with eternal security and how to counter it.Please don't be duped by the popularity of once saved always saved. It is NOT Biblical even though various scriptures, such as John 10:28, have been misused as backing.
Evangelical Outreach does not teach a works salvation or legalism. Those are some of the common false accusations and misconceptions about a conditional security used to smear us. Dan Corner teaches we are saved by grace (Eph. 2:8,9) but we can fall from grace (Gal. 5:2-4). We are justified by faith (Rom. 5:1) but our faith can become shipwrecked (1 Tim. 1:19,20) and cease to exist (Lk. 8:13; Rom. 11:19-23). We are not under the law (Rom. 6:14,15) but if you live according to the sinful nature you will die (Rom. 8:13). Paul taught against legalism (Gal. 5:3,4) but he also taught that no immoral, impure or greedy person has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God (Eph. 5:5-7). We are not saved by works (Eph. 2:8,9) but to reap eternal life and not destruction you must sow to please the Spirit and not the sinful nature (Gal. 6:8,9). God is faithful to us (1 Jn. 1:9; 1 Cor. 10:13) but we must be faithful to him to the very end of our lives to escape the lake of fire or second death (Rev. 2:10,11). God surely loves us (Jn. 3:16; Mk. 10:21; Rom. 8:35-39) but those who inherit the kingdom of God love God (Jam 2:5; 1 Cor. 2:9) and to love God means to obey his commands (Jn. 14:15; 1 Jn. 5:3). We have freedom in Christ (Gal. 5:1) but this freedom is not to indulge the sinful nature (Gal. 5:13; 1 Pet 2:16). God is to be obeyed and feared.
One of the greatest unrecognized spiritual dangers for those who believe the Bible and that we are saved by grace and not by works (Eph. 2:8,9) is the doctrine of demons and false gospel of eternal security (once saved always saved). The eternal security teachers are very dangerous people, but are exalted and supported even by those who supposedly don't believe in once saved always saved! The spiritual treason in our day is horrible to the eternal harm of SOULS.

"The greatest doctrinal threat to holiness is the heretical doctrine
of eternal security or once saved always saved." -- Dan Corner

Dave Hunt Vs Dan Corner Eternal Security Debate

         

 

Eternal Security or Conditional Security, continued on page 2

Eternal Security or Conditional Security, continued on page 3

The Righteous Can Die Spiritually

There are many death blows to eternal security (or once saved always saved) found in Scripture. At the very core of this non-Christian doctrine is the concept that a person once saved (a righteous person) can not experience spiritual death over any sin. The clarity of the Scriptures to the contrary is overwhelming from Genesis through Revelation ...

Eternal Security Is Another Gospel

Eternal security is a false gospel and counterfeit grace message, which is built upon partial truths and Scripture removed from its context. Many are in hell now because of once saved always saved.

Imputed Righteousness And Eternal Security

From the viewpoint of Calvinism and the eternal security proponent, imputed righteousness simply stated is: a person once saved is holy and righteous without living holy and righteously. Once saved always saved is foundational to their dark view.

Eternal Security And The Sin Unto Death

You will probably never hear any eternal security teacher say outrightly their doctrine is a license for immorality. In fact, they will most often flatly deny this charge sometimes to the point of yelling slander. However, there are still various ways these once saved always saved people teach this very thing they hate to be identified with. Certainly one is through their version of the sin unto death.

The Gospel According To Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley is the number 1 most influential eternal security teacher in the world. He has spread that false gospel in various ways including in his book entitled, Eternal Security: Can You Be Sure. Here is a Biblical refutation of that book with his false gospel of once saved always saved.

The Sinful Lifestyles Of The Eternal Security Proponents

For a Christian to believe any eternal security proponent is living holy is a contradiction to both the embraced doctrine cherished by that eternal security proponent and what the Bible declares about a sinner, a slave to sin and those not obeying God, which once saved always saved people identify themself as.

Eternal Security: A Doctrine of Demons

Demons actually formulate teachings (1 Tim. 4:1)! Satan can quote Scripture (Mt. 4:6), so we should not think the teachings of demons will be filled with apparent gaping holes that are easily noticed. Is it ludicrous for a "doctrine of demons" to come through respected and popular eternal security teachers?

The Image of a Christian In Our Present-Day

The image of a Christian now is a sinister, evil and ugly distortion which allows for gross wickedness and salvation too. It is a powerless and unholy image. The once saved always saved (or eternal security) lie has been accepted, treasured and defended by people who love a lie.

True or False Conversion is Not The Big Issue

The real issue isn't if one was truly saved or not (even though that is important), but instead is he saved now. Eternal security (or once saved always saved) is false.

1 Cor. 5:5 and Calvinism

Many people cite 1 Cor. 5:5 to support their belief in once saved always saved or eternal security (the fifth point of Calvinism). Does it really teach eternal security?

A Christian's Future Sins Are NOT Automatically Forgiven

The security-in-sin or once saved always saved teachers are spiritually dangerous people. Besides all of the other grievous declarations they make, some have also gone so far as to say that a Christian's future sins are already forgiven, even before they are committed. Don't be deceived by the DANGEROUS eternal security teachers.

Is The Calvinism of Our Day Different Than It Originally Was?

Calvinism has always allowed for a Christian to be immoral under their warped concepts of grace and salvation.

Eternal Security Teachers Are Very Dangerous People

Though it may seem exaggeratory, the eternal security teachers are vastly more dangerous than quack medical doctors or even serial murderers. Once saved always saved teachers are VERY DANGEROUS! Remember that truth.

Do All 5 Points Of Calvinism Hang Or Fall Together?

How logical is it for such a person who calls himself a Calvinist to be less than a 5 point Calvinist in light of the theology of Calvinism? (Read more about the 5 Points of Calvinism.)

Christians Can Quickly Turn To Another Gospel

Gal. 1:8,9 magnify the one and only gospel to the zenith of importance by stating that even if Paul, one of God's angels or anyone else would preach a gospel that is different than the one Paul preached, then let that person be eternally condemned.

Rick Knapp Convinced Killer George Sodini About Eternal Security

Can someone commit mass murder then still go to heaven? This mass murderer-suicide was convinced by an eternal security teacher that he could before he did!

Saved So As By Fire Argument (1 Cor. 3:11-15)

One of the primary arguments the eternal security teachers use to support the widespread belief that a saved person can be wicked, ungodly, vile, unfruitful, negligent and the like, without losing salvation is 1 Cor. 3:11-15. That is their saved so as by fire argument.

David Bercot Gets The Skull and Crossbones Award

Book review of his book, Will the real heretics please stand up? Though Bercot rejects eternal security (or once saved always saved), his doctrine is FAR from sound. He has been a stumbling block for some who know eternal security is false.

Eternal Security -- Dripping With A License For Immorality

Be assured that the eternal security teachers will deny that their doctrine is a license for immorality, but that doesn't change reality. There are various ways we can know the truth about this doctrine which is so dearly embraced by the deceived multitudes. Here are a few concepts that should drive home this point about eternal security (or once saved always saved) being a license for immorality.

The Mythical god of Eternal Security

As strange as this might sound to some, the god associated with the eternal security doctrine is not only non-existent, but is often the exact opposite of the God of the Bible.

10 Misconceptions About A Conditional Security

The following are misconceptions and strawman arguments that eternal security (or once saved always saved) people use to falsely accuse and discredit Christians like us who teach a conditional security for the believer.

Dave Hunt's Dangerous Misrepresentation Of Arminius

In Dave Hunt's book, What Love Is This?, Hunt shockingly presents Jacob Arminius as someone who taught eternal security! This is a gross misrepresentation.

Saving Faith and the John MacArthur Smokescreen

Many people understand saving faith to be what John MacArthur, who believes in once saved always saved, has taught over the years. This teaching reveals the facts about this massive deception. It powerfully exposes the deeds of darkness!

Conscious Of Sin As A Christian

A small percentage of the many Scriptures that show a Christian, saved by grace, is to be sin conscious are as follows.

Eight Stirring Passages From 1 Timothy

All throughout this epistle, Paul gave Timothy instructions to pass on to other Christians regarding how to ... Let's take a closer look at eight passages regarding the Christian battle and salvation that were basic in the days of first-century Christianity.

How Will A Christian Die Because of Sin?

Once saved always saved people say this death is physical death, while others say it is spiritual death, but let's compare Scripture with Scripture.

Nine Reasons Why I Hate The Teaching Of Eternal Security

Recently, I was asked on a radio show what compels me to oppose the teaching of eternal security (or once saved always saved) as I do. My answer in part was, "I hate the teaching of eternal security." This article gives nine good, Biblical reasons why this is so.

Entrusted With The Gospel

In the well known Parable of the Talents, we are clearly shown that the Christian is entrusted with the Lord's property and will one day give an account. This parable disproves once saved always saved doctrine.

Premarital Safe Sex - Are Any Sexually Active Singles Really Safe?

In part, the wickedness of our world (even in the present professing church) is reflected by its unbiblical views on premarital safe sex.

2 Cor. 11:1-15 Examined

An extremely stirring section of Scripture is 2 Cor. 11:1-15. You can feel Paul's godly concerns and the dangers associated with those false teachers (and teachings) he was battling.

Are You Sure There Are None That Are Righteous?

This article came as the result of obeying the command to contend for the faith against those who change grace into a license for immorality (Jude 3,4). The once saved always saved proponents have been wrongly taught.

Eternal Security Debate Challenge To David J. Stewart From Dan Corner

Mr. David J. Stewart is not only a staunch eternal security proponent, he has terribly slandered me (Dan Corner) and misrepresented our holiness-endurance salvation message.

The Command to Keep Away From Them

Rom. 16:17,18 state, "I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people."

Election and Eternal Security

Is one forced to consider the Calvinistic understanding of election to properly know about eternal security or once saved always saved?

Once Saved Always Saved Is Not An In House Debate

Part of the message of the eternal security (or once saved always saved) teachers is that the disagreement between those who reject eternal security and those who hold to this security-in-sin gospel (a better way to identify the eternal security doctrine) is that it is an in house debate.

Do Eternal Security Proponents Really Believe In Eternal Security?

The eternal security proponents don't really believe in eternal security as they adamantly teach, but they have never come to realize this fact.

The Perseverance of the Saints Version of Eternal Security

Calvinism is a total perversion of grace, how one gets saved, God's sovereignty, etc. But specifically related to eternal security (or once saved always saved), the fifth point of Calvinism dangerously downplays the seriousness of sin in the life of a believer and its version of eternal security is the most deceitful and inconsistent of the two.

Enemies Of God

The rampant teaching of eternal security continues to adversely affect multitudes. There are many ways a Christian can show once saved always saved is NOT Biblical.

Unmasking John MacArthur's Calvinistic Version of Saving Faith

Much confusion centers around John MacArthur and his eternal security version of saving faith. Sadly, this man has created a great deception that has adversely affected true Christians about the believer's security. Some of the quotes will surely shock you. You may be surprised to learn that oftentimes MacArthur actually sounds as bad as Charles Stanley and Charles Ryrie.

Eternal Security Is a License to Sin

Personal testimony showing once saved always saved is a license to sin.

Satan's Great Scheme (Copyright Evangelical Outreach 2001)

Our cartoon depicts the present-day situation among eternal security teachers and the demonic influence upon them. Copyright Evangelical Outreach 2001 (however, for the sake of souls, this may be used in its entirety without any alterations or exclusions). Satan's Great Scheme (pdf)

The Eternal Security Time Bomb (Copyright, Evangelical Outreach, 2001)

A blockbuster Christian cartoon depicting the serious adverse effects that the teaching of eternal security (or once saved always saved) had in one family. Copyright Evangelical Outreach 2001 (however, for the sake of souls, this may be used in its entirety without any alterations or exclusions). Eternal Security Time Bomb (pdf)

Is A Christian A Sinner?

We have received many emails over the years from eternal security (or once saved always saved) people either stating that all Christians are sinners or that they must continue to sin all the time in this life. This article is written for the express purpose of shedding Biblical light on this subject.

Ted Haggard's Sexual Immorality

Recently, the immoral lifestyle of Ted Haggard, eternal security teacher, has been exposed before the whole world.

Skull And Crossbones Awards For False Prophets And False Teachers

This is a listing of MANY false teachers who are adversely affecting SOULS. Most of the ones cited here believe in once saved always saved.

Whole Counsel Of God

How is it possible for false doctrine to run rampant in a day with so many Bibles within easy reach? In part, it is because false teachers are convincingly presenting a partial truth as the whole truth and distorting its intended meaning.

What's Wrong With The American Church?

1 Corinthians 5:1-13 is a startling chapter which shows, in part, what is wrong with the American church of our day. Once saved always saved (eternal security) is the major problem in Bible believing circles.

Testimonies Of Changed Lives

True testimonies of lives changed or blessed by our materials. Many of these people used to believe in once saved always saved or eternal security.

Somebody Has A Grossly Distorted View Of The Scriptures

Eternal security teachers are wrong in various areas of Scripture and not just regarding the subject of eternal security itself.

The Real Importance of Obedience to God

According to today's version of grace, obedience to God is optional and, therefore, not even a priority for many. But is that the real truth or a lie from the devil, who is trying to damn your soul to Hell through false teachings, which come from the devil's servants?

Hebrews Chapters 6 and 10

Excerpted from our book, "The Believer's Conditional Security: Eternal Security Refuted." This will help you better understand those passages in the light of other ones.

The Sinful Lifestyles Of The Eternal Security Proponents

To say that a Christian can commit adultery and not be an adulterer is to teach both a deadly lie and a license for immorality at the same time, even though you might claim to reject eternal security! It only takaes one act of murder or adultery to be a bible-defined murderer or adulterer, according to Scripture. Once saved always saved is demonic.

To Enter The Kingdom, You Must And You Must Not

Do not be deceived by the various false teachers of our hour! There are things you MUST DO after getting "born again" to ENTER God's Paradise kingdom, according to Scripture. Do you know what they are?

Bible Questions

Test your knowledge of the Scriptures regarding the believer's security. Includes 233 questions regarding eternal security you probably have never considered. A great Bible study refuting once saved always saved! All relevant Bible verses are cited. [Make copies for your friends.] Preguntas (Spanish)| Russian

Worst Of Sinners (Romans 7:14-20)

Sometimes connected with the freedom in Christ message is Rom. 7:14-20: "We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do." What is the Apostle Paul teaching? [Excerpted from our book, The Believer's Conditional Security: Eternal Security Refuted by Dan Corner.]

Antinomianism

The word antinomianism comes from the Greek anti (against) and nomos (law). It refers to the doctrine that it is not necessary for Christians to obey the moral law. In other words, faith frees the Christian from such obligations.

Suicide, A Quick Ticket To Hell

Suicide is commonly defined as the taking of one's own life. Tens of thousands of people a year in the United States alone commit this act. Many do that because they believe in once saved always saved!

Taking The Scissors To 1 Cor. 15:2

When the eternal security teachers refer to the gospel from 1 Cor. 15:1-4, they often make a point of avoiding verse 2! They usually do this by starting to read or write at verse 3 and just mentioning, in passing, the subject of Paul's gospel from verse 1. Why do you suppose those clear and powerful words from verse 2 are omitted?

Did Jesus Teach Eternal Security (Or Perseverance Of The Saints)?

If you're like most people, you'll be shocked to find out Jesus definitely did NOT teach once saved always saved! In fact, he was against eternal security.

Unconditional Eternal Security Arguments Answered

25 of the chief arguments for once saved always saved are examined and answered. Hundreds of eternal security proponents, including some Reformed apologists, have read this first book written by Dan Corner. It has never been refuted with Scripture, nor can it be, though some have made a feeble attempt! [Please also see the information on his new 801 page book entitled, The Believer's Conditional Security -- the most exhaustive refutation to once saved always saved that has ever been written!]

The first book includes the most common arguments and proof texts used by the perseverance of the saints teachers -- solidly refuting them with Scripture; fourteen Biblical examples of people who once had a saving faith but later lost it; seventeen important safeguards to keep this from happening to you and your loved ones, and much more!

Read a sample chapter from our 121 page book against eternal security:

Some Mail We Received Regarding Eternal Security

Actual letters for and against eternal security (or once saved always saved).

Open letters to influential religious leaders who teach a license for immorality

Charles Stanley
John Ankerberg
Hank Hanegraaff (of Christian Research Institute, or CRI)
Dave Hunt
David Servant (NOT his real name!)
David Wilkerson

Did Judas Iscariot Lose His Salvation

Once saved always saved proponents face many difficult passages of Scripture, that is, difficult for them because they clearly contradict their treasured and beloved doctrine. The contradictions from Scripture concerning their teaching exist either by specific example or simple declaration pertaining to this subject. Regarding examples that contradict eternal security, perhaps the Apostle Judas Iscariot is most difficult for them.

Wesley's Perseverance

John Wesley had a foundation in Greek, Hebrew and Latin, preached approximately 40,000 sermons and traveled 225,000 miles, mostly on horseback. The number of works he wrote, translated or edited exceeds 200. This article on the fifth point of Calvinism is essential reading for every Christian.

Eternal Security: False Reformed Theology

Testimony of a man (Wayne) set free from the false Reformed theology of eternal security.

Sign up for Internet Church The Acid Test
Do you want proof that eternal security (once saved always saved) leads to criminal acts? Here it is! Read it for yourself from a prisoner. The following are his exact words:

I have enjoyed reading The Believer's Conditional Security. It has answered a lot of questions that I have had in the past and even now. It explains to me how I ended up here in prison - wrong theology. It has made me open up the Bible more and study it more intently ...

Besides that, there was George Sodini, a once saved always saved proponent, who murdered 3 women then himself. He was DECEIVED INTO THINKING that even murder would not negate his salvation. There is no doubt that our society would be a much better place WITHOUT the false gospel and counterfeit grace message of eternal security!

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If you STILL believe in the eternal security or once saved always saved or perseverance of the saints AFTER reviewing all the pertinent material at this site, please tell us why you refuse to believe what the Scriptures declare.



Evangelical Outreach
PO Box 265
Washington, PA 15301

www.evangelicaloutreach.org
Contact Us Or Join Internet Church

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  Baptismal Regeneration... Is That Biblical?  

  Acts 2:38 is one of the most miss-understood verses in the Bible. With a proper view of rightly dividing God's Word, it is plain to see that it does not teach baptismal regeneration.

Rarely is doctrine ever formed from a single verse. We need to look at all of what God's words says about a given subject in order to accurately and rightly divide the Word of truth.

Acts 2:38 is not stating that you must be baptized in order to be saved. It is declaring that baptism is the outward representation of one's identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It is not the act of baptism that saves us, but what Christ did that saves us. It is the reality of His death which we receive by faith ( Romans 5:1 ). This is consistent with the acts of the apostles and the facts (doctrine) given by the apostles. It was the apostle Peter who is quoted in Acts 2:38, and yet in his first epistle he stated the reality of salvation apart from any mention of water baptism (1 Peter 3:21). It would be inconsistent with doctrinal teaching to suggest that one would receive the Holy Spirit through the act of water baptism.  Ephesians 1:13 is very clear on how the Holy Spirit is received. Obtaining salvation is never by do's and don'ts... salvation is DONE. Salvation cannot be achieved by a religious performance... it can only be received by faith ( John 1:12 ).

The act of baptism is not our salvation. It is not even a part of salvation. It is something someone does who is already saved. Acts 2:38 accompanied by other verses on baptism emphasize the importance of believer's baptism. Anyone who professes to know and follow Jesus Christ would want to give testimony by baptism of what Christ Jesus has done for them by virtue of the gospel (death, burial, resurrection). Thank God salvation is by grace through faith alone.

Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Belanger  

Water Baptism 

The word baptism derives from a verb meaning to immerse or to identify with. Spiritual baptism happens when the new believer is united with Christ and His people at the moment of salvation.

Water baptism should be practiced by every Christian as soon as opportunity is provided right after conversion. There are very important reasons why every Christian should be baptized.

Water baptism is the act of immersing the new believer in water as a testimony that he or she has experienced the reality of conversion/transformation. The act of water baptism is NOT to be equated with or for salvation. Paul reminds the believers at Rome that baptism illustrates both symbolic and spiritual significance (Romans 6:3,5):

#1: It represents redemption, picturing the gospel.

#2: It represents our hope in a future resurrection.

#3: It represents Christ as our New and only life.

Water baptism is a wonderful and powerful testimony of one's dedication and determination to follow the Lord Jesus Christ. This means growing under the the compelling influence of the Holy Spirit of God. This can only be realized as we hide the Word of God in our hearts.

Sincerely, Dr. Arthur Belanger

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