Subject: once saved always saved? |
Bible Note: SAVED FOR EVER The two schools of thought, the Armenian and The Calvinist, are antagonistic to the other and each claims to found its contentions on the Scripture. The backbone of the Armenian belief is based on Hebrews, chapter 3,4,6 and 10. Frankly, we believe that both schools have failed to catch the Holy Spirit's message for the believers. The Calvinists, cling to salvation by grace alone, and apart from works, have done away with the Spirit's warnings by asserting that the warnings are for "professors and not for possessors." The Armenians contend, rightly, that the warnings are for "possessors," but both schools fail to see that the REST is not salvation from hell, but it is the millennial rest of one thousand years, that awaits those saints who hold fast to the confidence and the rejoicing of the HOPE firm unto the end. "FOREVER LET IT BE MADE PLAIN THAT SALVATION IS BY GRACE, THROUGH FAITH, AND NOT OF WORKS. However, let it also be made plain: "WE MUST ALL APPEAR BEFORE THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST; THAT EVERY ONE MAY RECEIVE THE THINGS DONE IN HIS BODY, ACCORDING TO THAT HE HATH DONE, WHETHER IT BE GOOD OR BAD. KNOWING THEREFORE THE TERROR OF THE LORD, WE PERSUADE MEN." 2Cor.5: 10. FREE GIFT (Eternal) There is no value for the works done before Salvation. For the wages of sin is death; but the GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Rom.6: 23) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the GIFT of God: NOT OF WORKS, lest any man should boast. (Eph.2: 8,9) REWARDS ACCORDING TO WORKS (Millennial). These are works done (obedience) after Salvation. And, behold, I come quickly; and my REWARD is with me, to give every man ACCORDING AS HIS WORK SHALL BE. (Rev.22: 12) Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, ACCORDING TO THAT HE HATH DONE, whether it be good or bad. (2Cor.5: 9,10) For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall REWARD every man ACCORDING TO HIS WORKS. (Matt.16: 27) |