The Test Of Salvation

The Test Of Salvation

The early church did not have an issue questioning if someone is saved 'once and for all' or 'salvation can be lost'.

Today, the modern church is divided because of this. One school of thought firmly believes that one is saved forever; while the other strongly believes that salvation can be lost. They teach as though they are right.

Scriptures actually hold a tension between the two. We don't have an explicit 100% answer for that. Those who insist on one over another probably didn't study the Word enough.

What we know is this.... the early disciples had no issue with this salvation thingy, because they simply believed in the Gospel and followed through.

As long as we hold onto Christ and walk with Him, we need not worry about the rest. To worry about it implies that we are trying to find an alternate way out.

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. - Mark 16:15-16 (Read also Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus' words are very clear when it comes to salvation. One must believe in the Gospel AND be baptized. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that baptism is salvation (Note: The early disciples also DIDN'T struggle with this issue. They just followed through with baptism). 

What I'm saying is this... salvation must be followed by baptism. Faith must be followed by obedient action/response. 

Baptism, therefore, is the test of salvation. If someone hesitates to go for baptism, his salvation is questionable. Period.