The Salvation of the Few

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. –Matthew 7:13, 14.

Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. –Luke 13:23, 24.

For many are called, but few are chosen. –Matthew 22:14.

Did you ever wonder exactly what Jesus meant when He said that few would be saved? What kind of numbers, or percentages are we talking about? Today’s professing church tends to think that there are still large numbers of genuine believers out there. But the Bible gives us a better idea of what God meant by “few.” It really is very, very, very few indeed! Let’s check out examples from scripture to get an idea.

At the Flood of Noah. When God destroyed the earth with a flood of waters, we know that 8 were aboard the ark (Genesis 7:13; I Peter 3:20). But what was the earth’s population? The earth was then about 1,650 years old. Professional population estimates I have seen vary. One said it could have been between 750 million and 4 billion: another said between 5 and 17 billion! There are good reasons for these high estimates, but for arguments sake, let’s say it was 400 million. For 8 to be saved from 400 million would mean that for each person saved, 50 million would be lost! It is 2 one millionth of 1 per cent!

Now consider this: how many were in line to be saved when Noah was told about the Flood? Just 2. Noah was first mentioned in lineage in Genesis 5:32, at 500 years old: this was likely the time God was instructing him concerning the Flood. Noah’s eldest son Shem was born when Noah was 502 (Genesis 11:10)! Noah’s sons were raised in the fear of the Lord, preparing for God’s judgment upon the earth: now that is really just a few!

The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and the surrounding cities. Abraham pleaded with God to spare this region in Genesis 18. Abraham’s nephew Lot lived there with his family, specifically in Sodom. God agreed that He wouldn’t destroy Sodom if He could find just 10 righteous people there (18:32). We can find no reliable population figures for this region at the time, but it was a prosperous area. It wouldn’t be presumptuous to guess between 100,000 and 1 million. Still, in going by the lower number, God was requiring just one righteous out of every 10,000 in order to spare this area. So how many did God find righteous? Perhaps only Lot. Although Lot was initially rescued with his wife and 2 younger daughters, their behavior after the rescue leaves their spiritual condition in doubt (See Genesis 19:26 and beyond).

Elijah and the Seven thousand. The prophet Elijah was feeling very alone, and fleeing for his life in I Kings 19, but God told him that there were still 7,000 loyal to Him in Israel (19:18). So how many were in Israel at that time? When Israel went out of Egypt, we have good estimates of 3-4 million. This time with Elijah was probably 700 years or so later, so it wouldn’t be hard to think of the population being easily at 7 million. Remember that God was not bringing a great overthrow in judgment at this time. By these numbers estimated, there was just one righteous for every thousand people.

Jeremiah and Jerusalem. In Jeremiah 5:1, God says that He will pardon the city if just one righteous person can be found. The population of Jerusalem would have been 50,000 or so. This account revolved around God’s judgment upon Israel through Babylon.

Ezekiel, and Israel with “no hedge.” God’s people Israel had gone into captivity, carried away by Babylon. God could not find even one righteous enough amongst His people to spare them, or He would have. In Ezekiel 14:20, God said that even if Noah, Job, and Daniel stood before Him, that only their own righteous souls would be saved, and none other; not even their families. The key scripture here is Ezekiel 22:28-30.

In the Upper room. Before Jesus ascended up into Heaven, He instructed the disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they received the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:29). When that day came, on the day of Pentecost, it is written that the number of those gathered together was about 120. After 31/2 years of dynamic ministry in the Palestine region, we find that only 120 were still dedicated enough to following Christ that they were waiting in the upper room. During the days of Jesus’ flesh, I think it would be fair to say that He taught or touched 120,000 lives. By now, you are getting the idea! That would be only 1 in a thousand that were affected enough to keep following the Lord with their lives.

No, it doesn’t mean that there couldn’t have been some other real believers who were unable to be there. The numbers I am giving you in this article, when outside of Bible records, are not precise- there are reasonable approximates to give you the idea of what Jesus meant when He said that “few” would be saved.

Days shortened, or no flesh saved. In Mark 13:20 and Matthew 24:22, Jesus is telling His disciples about the end times: these 2 verses say almost exactly the same thing. Here it is as found in Matthew 24:21 and 22;

For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened. (Bold type added for emphasis)

When Jesus says, “…except those days should be shortened, there should be no flesh saved,” what does He mean? Is it a spiritual salvation, or strictly a flesh salvation? This is why I added the bold type at the end of the verse, for this is what defines the type of salvation; it is spiritual! This is also why you should always use the King James Bible for accuracy.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible lists the word saved 57X in the New Testament, with 20X in the gospels. Of these, I count 43X that it is referring to spiritual salvation, 3X flesh, and 11X that it could be at least superficially taken for either one, including these 2 verses. The majority of use, then, for the word “saved” is spiritual, as in these few sample verses;

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. - Mark 16:16

And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. –Acts 2:47B

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. –Romans 10:9

Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, -II Timothy 1:9

And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. –Revelation 21:24

God has made it clear that a believer’s life is not one to be wrapped up in the things of this world. In fact, God has said that He will destroy the earth, in favor of making another. In other words, God would not be saving the world and its inhabitants for the elect’s sake.Check out these verses that support my point;

He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. –John 12:25

And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. –Hebrews 1:10-12

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? –II Peter 3:10-12

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. –I John 2:15-17

And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. –Revelation 14:13

What God is saying, then, is that if Jesus did not return at this time, there would be no believers left on earth. We are promised the rapture in places like Matthew 24:40 and 41, Luke 17:34-36, and I Thessalonians 4:16 and 17: to fulfill these promises, some genuine Christians must be left. Throughout the Bible, whenever God is about to bring judgment, there are always a few believers left. This is in keeping with the pattern God follows, as briefly summarized in Luke 17:26-37.

When Jesus tells us that only few will be saved, He really means it! If we are anchored down to the sure foundation of God’s Word (Matthew 7:24-27), all will be well in the end. If you are looking round about you now, and think you’re seeing great numbers of Christians, you’d better ask God to adjust your eyesight! You are seeing just, “men, like trees walking,” and not for what they really are. And remember- we must have the beams first removed from our own eyes.

NOW the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; -I Timothy 4:1

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. –II Timothy 3:13

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. –Luke 21:36

Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. –Revelation 16:15

Christians Be Sure

Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. –Revelation 1:3

Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. –I Corinthians 10:12

We Christians have been looking for the return of our Lord Jesus ever since His ascension into Heaven, after the “days of His flesh.” Unfortunately, getting to that time will come with much pain here on the Earth- the antichrist, a.k.a. “the beast,” will come first. He will pose as the messiah for every faith, with lying signs & wonders; appearing to arrive just in time to save mankind from totally destroying itself, shortly after World War III (Revelation 9:13-19). Scripture says this war will kill one-third of mankind. Brethren, we need to know and believe the Word of God (the King James Bible only) in order to really stand for Christ in the dark days ahead. Most of the professing church will readily go along with the deception of the antichrist: let’s make sure we aren’t among them! We need to be sure of our salvation in Christ.

Today there is a very popular doctrine among many believers called eternal security. It is a doctrine which takes the position that once a person has been genuinely born again through Jesus Christ, that they are then destined for Heaven, and their souls cannot be lost. Obviously, once we are with the Lord in Heaven, we are eternally secure! So I would rather refer to this doctrine as eternal security now: many who hold to this belief proclaim that they already have eternal life, though they are still flesh & blood. Many who hold to this view also believe in an unknowable, any-moment, pre-tribulation rapture for Christians. They think that they will not be here for the antichrist, and so they will not be ready when this imposter takes over. This is my real concern that leads me into writing this article now, before it is too late.

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. –Ezekiel 3:17

This article may get lengthy, for it will be heavy with scripture. Printed scriptures will be italicized, but some words and phrases may be in bold type or underlined for emphasis. It has been difficult for me to address this matter, for there is much to it, and I don’t want anyone’s real saving faith to be damaged. But the eternal security now doctrine has done much damage, and in my mind it is a fulfillment of the prophecy found in the following;

BUT there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not… But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, as they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots they are and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you; Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; But was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. –II Peter 2:1-3, 12-22

This sure sounds like an account of falling away from salvation, doesn’t it? Eternal security now is a doctrine that promises fleshly liberty, an “anything goes” type of Christianity. There are all types of subtle alterations of this doctrine, but the underlying theme is the same: do what you will, believe & behave as you like, your salvation will never be in jeopardy. I have known some of those who hold this doctrine to be devout Christians, sincerely seeking to live for Christ. But I have also known those that are incredibly wicked holding to this doctrine! Somebody told them not to worry about holy living; that they are bound to live sinfully, but it’s alright- they are still saved, no matter what. Let’s see what the Bible really says about salvation, starting with this Old Testament description from Ezekiel 18:21-24;

But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

This is very merciful, but pretty much a common sense approach by God: if a sinner turns from his wickedness and lives in godliness, God forgives & forgets the past. But if one that is living righteously turns away from godly living and proceeds wickedly, none of his good works will be remembered. The eternal security now doctrine would read something like this, “If a sinner turns to Jesus Christ for salvation, but then turns back into the wickedness he did before, still all of his past, present, and future sins will be forgiven.” Christians believe that the God of the New Testament is the same God from the Old Testament. Jesus Christ is always the same (Hebrews 13:8). If the new doctrine of eternal security now is true, this would represent a major, complete turnaround from the previous way! Those espousing this doctrine ignore plenty of scripture, and try to explain away plenty more. The Bible actually stands quite well without these additions of men, and our salvation is still sure.

Jesus came to save us from our sins, that we should not perish with the devil in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:15), but have eternal life in Heaven. We can easily see reference to this in places like John 3:16, 36, 10:27&28, also in Romans 6:23. But when does eternal life start? Perhaps when we are first saved we are then slated to receive eternal life, but we aren’t there yet. Consider the following verses, which may be with or without my comments.

But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. –Luke 20:35&36. This obviously doesn’t happen with initial salvation!

Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. –John 6:27. If it “endures” unto everlasting life, that is clearly in the future.

He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. –John 12:25. Again, eternal life is in the future.

In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. –John 14:2&3.

Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: -Romans 2:4-7. We don’t have eternal life yet!

Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. –I Corinthians 15:50-54. There are 2 points I wish to emphasize: 1) Flesh & blood can’t have eternal life; we know that, it’s obvious. 2) Even after we die, we must be changed in order to receive immortality! Some think that because our spirits are saved, that in a sense, we have everlasting life now: God says that there is something else that has to happen first, and the next verses also indicate this;

FOR we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. –II Corinthians 5:1-4.

For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. –Galatians 6:8&9.

Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; -I Peter 1:13.

And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. –I Peter 5:4. We haven’t yet reached our desired haven- let’s keep going!

Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. –Jude 21. Eternal life is yet to come.

The believer’s life in Christ is comparable to marriage, and we find numerous allusions to this throughout the New Testament; Matthew 9:14&15, 22:2-14, 25:1-13; Mark 2:18&19; Luke 5:33&34, 12:35-40; John 3:27-29; Ephesians 5:22-32; and Revelation 19:6-9. Marriage is for keeps, but they obviously take a lot of work, and a commitment to grow. Though a marriage may be intended to last, many do not. God’s Word has given us guidelines as to what our duties are, how to behave, warnings of deceit, et cetera. Once we are in that relationship with God through Jesus Christ, He will not betray us, but we may betray Him. God has not forced salvation upon us, and neither will He force us to stay with Him; all of the choice is ours. Frankly, that’s why our Bibles are as big as they are; to be sure we remain on the right road. This article may seem lengthy, but I want you to know the weight of the testimony of scripture: that you may be diligent in your walk for Christ, and that we may rejoice together in eternity! Again, all scripture references are taken from God’s preserved Word; the King James Bible.

In one sense, salvation in Christ is not difficult. We cannot be saved by our works, or atone for our own sins, so Jesus took these requirements upon Himself. In another sense, the Lord stated that salvation belonged to but few, so why is this? The difficulties seem to lie in two main points: 1) Jesus is the only way to salvation, and His is the only name by which to be reconciled to God (John 14:6 & Acts 4:12). 2) We cannot accept our own naturally sinful separation from God, and think there is still some good in us apart from Him (Romans 3:10-18). If we can accept God’s Word as true on these points, our path to salvation will be ready- but it will cost us the esteem of men.

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. –I Corinthians 1:18

Consider then the following verses (and comments) with regard to the truth of the simplicity of salvation, and how it is maintained by grace.

Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. –Acts 16:29-31.

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. –Romans 10:9&10. These 2 scriptures show how simple salvation can be.

THEREFORE being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. –Romans 5:1&2. This shows the Christian that not only are they saved, but then through Jesus we can still come and be forgiven when we stumble.

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. –Romans 5:8-10. If God loved us so when we were sinners who hated Him, will He not love us now when we love & try to please Him, but fall short? The work of the cross is therefore ongoing in the Christian’s life.

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. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. –Ephesians 2:8-10. These verses give us a basic understanding that salvation is God’s gift, and we could never earn it. Yet it also at once indicates that the born again believer will have been transformed, and will naturally seek to do good works that please God.

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. MY little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. -I John 1:8-2:2. If you are saved, you already have Jesus as your advocate! Seek to confess your sins, and turn from them, and you will still be “married” to the Lord. Everyone stumbles, and we must learn and grow. The Holy Spirit keeps us on track.

Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth. –John 9:41. Some might have a fear of a hidden, unknown sin (Psalm 19:12&13) hindering their salvation. This verse stands against such a fear, and so does Old Testament teaching about sins done in ignorance. You will find these scriptures in Leviticus chapters 4&5, and in Numbers chapter 15. When God brings these shortfalls to our knowledge, we then repent as we would for any other transgression: until we know of it, however, we are not accountable.

Judas & Peter: These 2 disciples are great examples for our topic. We find the fall of Judas Iscariot in Matthew 26:14-25, and 27:3-5; also in Mark 14:10-21, & 43-46: in Luke 22:1-6, 47&48; John 13:21-27, 18:2&3. Judas’ fall would fit the description found in Hebrews 6:4-6;

For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. Those that espouse the eternal security now doctrine hate these verses, but they fit in just fine for Christian understanding. Judas walked with God through His Son for over 3 years, and he knew the power of Christ through the Holy Spirit. But he fell away, and could not turn back again.

Peter fell away, of course, but then repented. Peter knew that denying Christ meant a separation from the right relationship with God that we need (Matthew 10:33). The evidence that Peter actually fell away is indicated in Luke 22:31&32, as Jesus says to him, “When thou art converted.” In Mark 16:7 the angel instructs the women to “Go your way, tell His disciples and Peter…” At a certain point, Peter needed conversion; he was no longer a disciple. Both Judas & Peter were chosen disciples: one deliberately turned away, the other fell during stressful times. These are good examples of the Biblical truth I wish to point out.

As we now look at scriptural instruction, we’ll start with words directly from Jesus, during the “days of His flesh.” As Christians, we should accept the whole of the Bible as being from Jesus, through the instrumentality of the Holy Spirit.

The parable of the sower. The explanation of this parable is found in Matthew 13:18-23, Mark 4:14-20, and Luke 8:11-15: in it we find some fallen believers.

The sower soweth the word. And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended. And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred. –Mark 4:14-20. Those on the stony ground have trouble obeying the Word of God, and fall away- even if they don’t realize it. The account in Luke says that they, “for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.Those among the thorns become worldly, and spiritually unfruitful (James 4:4).

The salt loses its saltiness. This found in Mark 9:50, Luke 14:34&35, and in Matthew 5:13;

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

Denial of Christ. This is from Matthew 10:33, II Timothy 2:12, and in Luke 12:9;

But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.

Unclean spirit returns. As seen in Matthew 12:43-45 and in Luke 11:24-26;

When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

Unprofitable servants. Unprofitable and/or unfruitful. Seen in Matthew 25:14-30, in Luke 19:12-27, and this from John 15:2, 5&6;

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit…I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. These are the true 11 disciples Jesus is addressing- even Judas Iscariot is gone! We have to abide in Christ, and so bear fruit.

Mouth believers. Found in Mark 7:6&7, and Matthew 15:8&9;

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Unfaithful servants. We see reference to these in Matthew 24:48-51, and Luke 12:42-46;

And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath. But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

Ashamed of Jesus & His words. This is found in Luke 9:26 & Mark 8:38;

Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.

Tradition chosen over obedience. See Matthew 15:3&6, and Mark 7:9;

And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.

Devils inside the church! As shown in Luke 4:33, Mark 1:23, and Mark 1:39;

And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

There is a big one concerning unforgiveness in Matthew 18:23-35. You will see that the forgiven servant refuses to forgive another servant that had repented to him: after which, his own forgiveness was revoked;

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

The following warning comes in view of the last days (today), from Matthew 24:11-13;

And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Blaspheming the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 12:31&32, Luke 12:10, and in Mark 3:28-30;

Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme: But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation: Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.

Consider these from the book of Luke;

And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. –Luke 9:61&62.

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. –Luke 14:28-30.

And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. –Luke 21:34-36.

Now let us see an example found in John 6:27, 47, 65&66. This is all part of one interaction, but I’ve focused on a few important verses for the sake of time & space;

Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed…Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life…And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

Please observe more from John, and pay attention to the conditions;

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. –John 8:31&32.

Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. –John 14:23.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. –John 15:13&14.

The rich young ruler. Found in Matthew 19:16-26, Luke 18:18-27, and Mark 10:17-27;

And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth. Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions. And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

The rich young ruler obviously lived his life by God’s standards of behavior; he just hadn’t given everything. According to the account in Matthew, he knew that something was still lacking. My opinion is that this man honestly didn’t think his riches would be a hindrance to living a life pleasing to God. When the disciples were astonished, and wondered “Who then can be saved?” it was because this man’s life was good, Jesus had looked upon him with love, and had even invited him to follow, after his riches were disposed of. The disciples weren’t rich, as each account reminds us in the verses that follow: what they were viewing was a very good man, and probably of local reputation for it. I think that today many churches view such individuals as Christian, and “eternally secure.”

Believing in vain. There are a number of references in which Paul is showing concern that the apparent work of redemption might “be in vain.” I have seen it in I Corinthians 15:1&2, II Corinthians 6:1, Galatians 3:3&4, 4:9-11, Philippians 2:15&16, and I Thessalonians 3:5;

For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.

In the book of Acts I see 2 accounts of falling believers; Ananias & Sapphira in 5:1-10, and the sorcerer Simon in 8:9-24: please look them up!

The book of Romans. 4 passages seem noteworthy here.

Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. -1:21.

BRETHREN, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. -10:1-3.

Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. -11:20-22.

THERE is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. -8:1. This last verse I included because many Christians like to lean on it for salvation assurance. But the words I have added bold type to are usually missing from most new Bible versions! We are in a marriage-type relationship, and we need to keep going. Those last 10 words really qualify the promise, don’t they?

I Corinthians. For emphasis I will print all of the examples that I noted.

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. -3:16&17. Remember, this is written to believers.

For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person. -5:3-13. There was a known sin here, within the body of Christ, and this “diseased” member of the body was to be cut off, or put away. This would be an example of practicing the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 5:29&30; “It is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into Hell.”

But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol’s temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? -8:9-11.

I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. -9:26&27. Paul didn’t believe in eternal security now!

Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. -10:11&12.

But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. -11:28-30.

II Corinthians. Please see 5:9, 6:14-18, 10:18, and 13:5;

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates.

The book of Galatians. More examples are found in 1:8, 4:20, and these;

But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. -2:17&18.

Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace. -5:4.

You will also find this from the book of Ephesians 5:5-7;

For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

In Philippians, I will point out 2:12, but print this from 3:7-14;

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; -Colossians 1:21-23.

Please view I Thessalonians 5:6-9 and II Thessalonians 2:3 at your convenience.

I Timothy. Seven were seen here, 3:6, 4:16, 6:10, 20&21, and these;

Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: Of whom is Hymenæus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme. -1:19&20.

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; -4:16.

For some are already turned aside after Satan. -5:15.

In II Timothy I’ll mention 1:15, 3:1-5, 4:2-10, and this from 2:16-18;

But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenæus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.

Please look up in Titus 1:15&16, and 3:10&11.

Hebrews. This is a powerful book for refuting the “eternal security now” doctrine, and for this reason many try to say that it doesn’t apply to us today. There is NO Biblical support for that position, and as I hope you are seeing, eternal security now finds great refuting all throughout the New Testament. God gives to us a SURE salvation, but He wants a relationship with us: we are married to Him, and we have to keep growing. At the same time, though, Satan will seek to afflict & tempt us, to either deceive us into turning from Christ, or to hinder our effectiveness for Him. The world is the devil’s (Luke 4:5&6), and he is more powerful now than ever before.

From this book I will point out 3:6, 4:1&11, 5:9, 12:15, and these;

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; -3:12-14.

For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. -10:26&27.

In the book of James I will list 1:14-16, 2:18-20, 4:4 (please read all listed!), and this;

Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins. -5:19&20. This is written for believers.

Two were gone over in I Peter earlier, in the eternal life section. In II Peter, chapter 2 was also already mentioned, which is a last days’ prophecy. I would also mention 1:5-11, and this;

Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. -3:17.

Looking at I John we find application in 2:24, 28, 3:8, and 5:16;

If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. All of the epistles are written to Christians!

Moving quickly now, I would mention II John 9, III John 9&10, Jude 24, and in Jude 4&5;

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.

Revelation. This book is powerful in its testimony against the eternal security now doctrine. We’ll review Jesus’ words to the churches, and His ending admonition.

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. This is from 2:5. The believers of this church are fallen, and need to repent! Otherwise, they will be removed.

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. -2:16. Compare this with 19:15: Christ’s enemies are fought against with that sword.

Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: -2:20-26. We can see in this example that there is division within a church; some are still steadfast in the Lord, but others have fallen & must repent.

AND unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. -3:1-5. The eternal security now doctrine tends to give men a name that they are alive in Christ, even if really they are dead. Repentance is needed, or else they will be blind to the time of Jesus’ return. Verse 5 clearly infers that God does, and will at times blot out names from the book of life! God made the book- He puts the names into the book- He can remove names from the book!

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. -3:15-19. This church is rich and worldly; it makes Jesus sick! They have fallen, and must repent.

Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. -16:15.

And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. -18:4.

And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. -22:19. God can remove names from the book of life.

DECEPTION. God gives us all kinds of warnings about deception; it is a trademark of these “last days.” Here is my short list, though many times throughout the Word deception is an implied part of the issue. Matthew 13:27-29, 24:4, 11, 24; Mark 13:5, 22; Luke 20:20; 21:8; II Corinthians 2:17, 11:3&4, 26; Galatians 2:4; Philippians 3:17-19; Colossians 2:8; I Timothy 6:3-5; II Timothy 3:13; II Peter 2; I John 4:1; Revelation 13, 19:20.

Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. –Acts 20:28-31.

But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. –From II Corinthians 11:12-15.

God strongly warns us against deception, which can come in great variety, and from unexpected sources. Some may mean well, but are deceived within themselves, and so they pass it along. Yet for all the warnings we have of deception, these passages never reassure us that we are “saved anyway,” but tells us we will be lost! Please think about this final example;

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. –Matthew 7:20-23.

Verses 16-20 refer to knowing who a person is spiritually by their “fruit.” Jesus ties in the type of fruit to the kind of tree which bears it. Eve was tempted by some very good-looking fruit in Genesis 3:6; but she knew that the tree meant death, no matter how good it appeared. I have known those that compromised their Christian faith with false religion, just for a piece of bread. It also works the other way, which is more obvious. That is, when you see a group or individual doing many wicked things deliberately, without any remorse, you’ll know they don’t belong to Christ.

Jesus describes an individual in verses 21&22 that sounds like a dynamic Christian, even to the point where devils are being cast out! This is not even an average layman believer, but a vibrant leader. Jesus said that this individual never knew Him: but also, He said that MANY would testify that way to Him! Yet to all appearance, they were in right relationship with God, and blessed. Such a person will come before his Judge, believing that his “form of godliness” was good enough. He didn’t really think that he could deceive God, but instead, he was deceived. Did anyone ever preach to him that he had eternal security now? You can see why this doctrine is so destructive: it is loosely based upon appearance, and not Holy Spirit discernment.

Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. –John 7:24.

Again, although there are some true Christians that believe in the eternal security now doctrine, at the root of its teachings is an “anything goes” mentality. I say the doctrine is a fulfillment of II Peter 2, and is a type referred to in II Timothy 4:3&4. God has promised a sure salvation to those who come to Him by Jesus Christ, but we don’t have eternal life yet. Salvation is only the beginning of our Christian walk! Brethren, we must press on- eternity is our reward.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. –I Peter 1:3-9.