Bible Question:
I need a little help with a question: My brother (great guy) tells me that "decision theology" is wrong. I disagree because I believe that everyone must make a decision about Christ. He states that a decision would be "works", and that we are spiritually dead before the renewing/rebirth therefore we can't do anything ourselves to effect salvation. I realize that we are saved by grace through faith per Ephesians 2.8,9 and Titus 3.5, but there are MANY verses in the Bible like John 1.12, 3.16, and Revelation 3.20 that talk of "receiving Christ." I tried to tell him that he is right, it's not by works BUT making a decision (or accepting Christ) is not works. Kind of like accepting a rope tossed out to you if you were drowning. The drowning person is NOT saving himself, BUT must receive the rope. He keeps telling me that decision theology "cheapens God's grace". Who is right? I'm seriously outclassed in this debate because he's got Greek lexicons/dictionaries/commontaries ad naseum, and I'm a Bible only type guy. Thanks! |
Bible Answer: Huron, I believe there is only one way the Bible speaks of what we must do to be saved. After Peter had stood up and spoke to the multitude in the book of Acts Men came to Peter and asked "what must we do?" I believe salvation is an action to be taken on our part. Here is the scripture I am referencing, and believe this explains what it takes to be saved. Hope this helps. Act 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. |