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NASB | Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace [God's remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; |
Bible Question: I am a fairly new Christian although I have believed in Jesus my whole life. As with everyone else in this world I am very imperfect!! I lived in the world for 40 years before I actually became born again. I am unfortunately a smoker(cigarettes only)I have been trying to quit. I'm even trying medication from the doctor. I have cut back a great deal but not completely quit yet. I have gone forward for prayer many times and spoken to Jesus about taking this habit from me but, I still not there yet. Someone close to me told me if Jesus came to Rapture the Church, I would not get to go!!! That devastated me!!! Is that true??? I talked to a couple other people that said no Jesus loves us unconditionally and in him we are made perfect. What do you say? |
Bible Answer: Hello Jeanne, To answer your question, let's consider 2 things: 1. James 4:17 appears to address part of your question-If smoking is a sin to you- and you know it's wrong, what should you do? While it is not abundantly clear that scripture would categorize smoking as a sin, keep in mind "your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit..." (1 Cor. 6:19) 2. Col. 2:13-14 states- "When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." What is the basis of your salvation? Was it by grace or not? (Rom. 11:6) Rom. 5:8 quite clearly tells us that, "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." It was not our good actions or intentions that motivated Him to die for us. It was His love and grace! Stand in the truth of 1 Cor. 1:30- "But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption" Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |