Can a Christian lose their salvation?
We must first define what it means to be a Christian. A Christian is not merely someone who has recited a prayer, walked down an aisle, or been raised in a Christian family. While these experiences may form a part of one’s Christian journey, they are not the essence of being a Christian. A true Christian is an individual who has turned from their sins and wholly trusted in Jesus Christ as their only Savior, thereby receiving the Holy Spirit (John 3:16; Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8-9). Now that we have a clear definition of a Christian, let us explore the biblical teachings that answer the question of whether a Christian can lose their salvation:
1. A Christian is a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). The old has passed away, and the new has come. If a Christian could lose their salvation, it would imply that the new creation can be undone, which is in direct contradiction to Scripture.
2. A Christian is redeemed by the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). Redemption signifies a price paid, a purchase made. For a Christian to lose their salvation, God would have to nullify His purchase, which was bought with the blood of His Son.
3. A Christian is justified through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). Justification is a declaration of righteousness by God. If a Christian were to lose their salvation, God would have to reverse His declaration, going against His own Word.
4. A Christian is promised eternal life (John 3:16, ESV). Eternal life means spending forever with God in heaven. If a Christian could lose their salvation, the concept of “eternal” life would be rendered meaningless.
5. A Christian is marked by God and sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14). This seal is a deposit guaranteeing our heavenly inheritance. If a Christian were to lose their salvation, it would entail God breaking His promise, revoking the guarantee, and diminishing His glory.
6. A Christian is predestined, called, justified, and glorified (Romans 8:30). God guarantees glorification for those whom He justifies. If a Christian could lose their salvation, this promise would be flawed, as God could not ensure glorification for all He has predestined, called, and justified.
In light of these biblical truths, a true Christian cannot lose their salvation. It is essential to recognize that not everyone who claims to be a Christian is genuinely born again. Those who persist in unrepentant, sinful lifestyles (1 John 3:6, ESV) or reject the faith and deny Christ (1 John 2:19) demonstrate that they were never truly regenerated. As Jesus himself said, “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16). True believers will bear fruit for God (Romans 7:4). Rest assured, nothing can separate a child of God from His love (Romans 8:38-39), and nothing can snatch a Christian from His hand (John 10:28-29). Our Good Shepherd searches for lost sheep, rejoicing when He finds them and carrying them safely home (Luke 15:5-6).
No Comments