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NASB | Mark 4:16 "In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Mark 4:16 "In a similar way these [in the second group] are the ones on whom seed was sown on rocky ground, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy [but accept it only superficially]; |
Bible Question:
Zach: A couple of questions to help me understand your position a little better: 1. Once we place our trust in Christ, precisely what do we have to do in order to deserve remaining in grace? 2. How bad do we have to sin to fall out of grace? 3. Since Hebrews 6:4-6 indicates that it is impossible for those who have fallen away to be brought back to repentance, I would assume that you would subscribe to a doctrine of "once fallen away, always fallen away." If that is not the case, please explain these verses in light of your theology. Thanks! --Joe! |
Bible Answer: Joe; Putting our faith in Christ is not a stopping point, but is rather a starting point in the life of a believer. The idea of "let go and let God" has no scriptural basis. Consider the following; There is an eternal, and CONDITIONAL "if" in every consideration of eternal security. IF we walk in the light; IF that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son; IF any man draw back; IF a man abide not in me, he is cast forth; IF a man keep my saying: IF thou continue in His goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off: IF ye do these things, ye shall never fall; IF we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end; IF we endure; IF we deny Him, He also will deny us; IF we sin willfully..there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins; IF ye forsake Him, He will forsake you; ye are my friends IF ye do whatsoever I command you; IF ye live after the flesh, ye shall die. He that endureth till the end, the same shall be saved. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things , ye shall never fall (2 Pet. 1:9-10) Concerning your second question: "How bad do we have to sin to fall out of grace?" I don't have the exact answer for that. All I can say is that while a single sin in the life of a believer isn't warrant for an individual to forfeit his/her salvation, continual persistence in willful sin Heb. 10:26 grieves the Holy Spirit, and if persisted in over time will harden the heart and result in quenching the Holy Spirit. Concerning your last question I believe scripture is very clear. The Scripture you used is clear that those who "have fallen away" cannot be "renewed" So that means that they once were renewed and cannot be again. I don't believe a person can be born again, and again, and again. This text says it is "impossible" to be renewed a second time. Once salvation is forfeited, after being saved the first time, there then is no second or third chance, seeing how these trampled under foot the Son of God, and regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace Heb 10:29 Hope that helps you understand my personal beliefs on this important matter . If not feel free to reply. Grace and peace be multiplied unto thee. zach† |