Salvation is a gift from God, given through faith in Jesus Christ. However, many believers struggle with the question, can you lose your salvation? The Bible provides assurance and warnings that challenge us to examine our faith.
1. Salvation is a gift from God
Ephesians 2 verses 8 to 9 declares, For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves. It is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. This means salvation depends entirely on God's grace, not our actions. Once given, can this gift be taken away?
The parable of the prodigal son, Luke 15 verses 11 to 32
The story of the prodigal son teaches a powerful lesson about God's grace. The younger son left his father's house, wasted his inheritance, and found himself in misery. However, when he repented and returned, his father welcomed him with open arms. This illustrates that God's love and forgiveness are always available. Even when we stray, true repentance brings restoration. The son was still part of the family despite his rebellion. This suggests that a believer who strays but genuinely repents is not abandoned by God.
2. Warnings against falling away
While salvation is a gift, the Bible also warns against turning away from God.
The story of King Saul
King Saul was chosen by God and anointed by Samuel. However, he repeatedly disobeyed God, refused to repent, and eventually lost God's favor. 1 Samuel 15 verses 22 to 23. The spirit of the Lord departed from Saul. 1 Samuel 16 verse 14. And he ended in destruction. Saul's story warns us that persistent disobedience and unrepentant sin can lead to separation from God.
Hebrews 10 verses 26 to 27
Hebrews 10 verses 26 to 27 reinforces this, saying, If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth. No sacrifice for sins is left.
3. The example of Judas
Judasite was one of Jesus' twelve disciples. He walked with Jesus, witnessed miracles, and even preached. Yet, he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Matthew 26 verses 14 to 16. Afterward, filled with regret but without true repentance, he took his own life. Matthew 27 verses 3 to 5. Judas' story raises a sobering question. Was he ever truly saved? Jesus called him, the son of perdition. John 17 verse 12. This suggests that while Judas was among the disciples, his heart never truly belonged to Christ.
4. The power of perseverance
Hebrews 3 verse 14 says, We have come to share in Christ if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end. This means true believers will endure in their faith. Peter denied Jesus three times. Luke 22 verses 54. But repented and was restored. True faith may stumble but will not be utterly lost.
Can salvation be lost?
Can salvation be lost? The Bible presents two truths. God secures true believers, but those who reject him may be lost. The key is remaining in Christ, repenting when we fall, and persevering in faith. Salvation is secure for those who truly belong to him.