The Gospel for Christians

Its not just for non-ChristiansThe Gospel for Believers

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In Pauls letter to the church in Rome he said he is eager to come and proclaim the Gospel to them (Romans 1:15)Christians may have come to think of the Gospel as a brief message proclaimed only to non-believersE.g., Romans Road (Romans 3:23, 6:23, 5:8, 10:9-10)The Gospel in its fullness includes everything that God has accomplished for us through Christ, who we are in Christ and what we possess in ChristOnce we fully understand the Gospel, then the answer to the question, How should we then live? becomes clearWhy Preach the Gospel to Believers?

(1 Thessalonians 2:13) This is why we constantly thank God, because when you received the message about God that you heard from us, you welcomed it not as a human message, but as it truly is, the message of God, which also works effectively in you believers.

Gods message (the Gospel) is presently working in those that are presently believing2

The Gospel is the basic, central message of ChristianityIt is what make Christianity uniqueWe absolutely need to get it right!Gal 1:8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!2 Cor 11:3 (NASB) But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. 2 Tim 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.

Why Study the Gospel?

but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; 1 Peter 3:15 (NASB)

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The Gospel is vastThe Gospel presented to unbelieversThe Gospel that Christians need to study and be constantly reminded ofWe can spend the rest of lives studying the Gospel and never fully plumb its depths Paul Lasher

The Gospel is Multifaceted

ForgivenessRegenerationJustificationRighteousnessPropitiationReconciliationEternal lifeIn ChristRedemptionSanctification

These facets are all interrelated and interwoven, demonstrating the incredible wisdom of God in His complete provisions for us in Christ5

The Objectives of this presentation are:To summarize the fullness of the message of the GospelTo produce a sense of awe, wonder and amazement at the wisdom, power and love of God in what He accomplished for us through the cross of ChristOh, the depth oftheriches both of the wisdom andtheknowledge ofGod! How unsearchable Hisjudgments and untraceable Hisways! Romans 11:33 (HCSB)To present precise definitions of the theological concepts within the GospelTo provide a basis for addressing the next question, How should we then live?Purpose of This Presentation

Gospel means good newsHistorically, the Greek word meant a message of victory, or good news from the battlefieldThe Gospel is proclaimed throughout ScriptureGen 3:15 He shall bruise you on the headGen 18:18, as referenced by Gal 3:8The Gospel of the Kingdom in the four GospelsThe seventeen different Gospel presentations in ActsThe epistle to the Romans, and as elaborated on in the remaining epistlesSummarized in 1 Cor 15:3-4 Key passages: Rom 3:21-26, Eph 1:3-14Will be proclaimed to everyone on earth, Rev 14:6-7The Gospel

Gen 3:15 And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, And you shall bruise him on the heel." Gal 3:8 The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, "ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU. (Genesis 18:18)1 Cor 15:3-4 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the ScripturesRev 14:6-7 And I saw another angel flying in midheaven, having an eternal gospel to preach to those who live on the earth, and to every nation and tribe and tongue and people; and he said with a loud voice, "Fear God, and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made the heaven and the earth and sea and springs of waters."

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A simple definition of the Gospel: the Person and Work of ChristThe Gospel in its fullness includes Who God is and What God has done for us in and through the Lord Jesus Christ (and is doing and will do), who we are in Christ, what we possess in Christ, including the gifts He has given us, and the promises for what is yet future for usThe Gospel

There is a God who eternally exists and has created everything, including every personAlthough man had perfect fellowship with God, man rebelled and was plunged into darkness, sin, rebellion and hopelessnessAlthough God would have been just in separating man from Himself eternally, but because of His great love for us, He sent His one and only Son, Jesus, the prophesied Messiah, fully man and fully God, to die for our sins in order to purchase us for HimselfGod raised Christ from the dead demonstrating His complete satisfaction of His just wrath against sin as satisfied in Christs sacrificial deathIn Acts 17:30 God commands all men everywhere to repent (change your direction, how you think about God and Jesus Christ, who He is and what He has done)In Mark 1:15 Jesus commanded to believe in the Gospel (in His complete provisions for you in His death, burial and resurrection)In Acts 2:38 we are commanded to be fully identified with Christ in His suffering, death and resurrection for you!The Gospel a brief summary

The facets of the Gospel are only good news in that they bring us to God for our everlasting enjoyment of Him*The facets of the Gospel show how God removed the barriers that separated man from GodThe good news of the Gospel and the ultimate end of the Gospel is our eternity of intimate fellowship with GodThen I heard a loud voice from the throne: Look! Gods dwelling is withhumanity, and He will live withthem. They will be Hispeople, and God Himself will be withthem and be theirGod. Revelation 21:3 (HCSB) His servants will worship him, and they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. Revelation 22:3-4 (NET1)Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 (NASB)*For more, read God is the Gospel, by John PiperThe Gospel in Context

The facets of the Gospel are a reflection of Who God isGod did what He did because of Who He is, for example:Redemption reflects the love of God the Father, who was willing to sacrifice His One and Only Son, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who willingly suffered and died for usJustification reflects the justice of God and righteousness of GodGod is righteous in making us righteous and declaring us to be righteousRegeneration reflects the power of God in raising us all from the dead when He raised Christ from the deadReconciliation reflects the goodness of God in doing whatever it took to restore eternal fellowship with HimPropitiation demonstrates His just wrath against sin and His mercy for not giving us what we deserveSalvation reflects Gods grace in giving us what we dont deserveThe Gospel in Context

The Gospel is the ultimate expression of the ultimate purpose that God had in creating, which includes:To show His wrath against sin: Rom 9:22To make His power known: But what if God, willing to demonstrate his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience the objects of wrath prepared for destruction? Rom 9:22To show the riches of His glory: And what if he is willing to make known the wealth of his glory on the objects of mercy that he has prepared beforehand for glory Rom 9:23To show the riches of His grace: to demonstrate in the coming ages the surpassing wealth of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:7 (NET1)To show the manifold wisdom of God: The purpose of this enlightenment is that through the church the multifaceted wisdom of God should now be disclosed to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly realms Eph 3:10The Gospel in Context

The Gospel is a key part of Gods eternal decree. That decree included:Creation: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 (HCSB)The presence of sin: You said to yourself: I will ascend totheheavens; I will set up mythrone above the stars ofGod. I will sit onthemount ofthegodsassembly, in the remotest parts oftheNorth. Isaiah 14:13 (HCSB)The Lord Jesus Christ incarnate in human flesh See, the virgin will becomepregnant and give birth toason, and they will name Him Immanuel, which is translated God is with us. Matthew 1:23 (HCSB) His vicarious suffering and death: Christ died for our sinsHis resurrection from the dead: He rose from the dead the third dayThe consummation of all things brought together in Christ: That in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in Him Ephesians 1:10

The Gospel in Context

One Gospel, Many FacetsFacets of the gospel

RedemptionRighteousnessJustificationRegenerationReconciliationPropitiationSubstitutionSanctificationForgivenessEternal LifeAdoptionInheritanceWashedFacets of the GospelMade HolySet FreeRescuedSavedAccessPeaceRestJoyFaithHopeLovedTruthSealedSecureCalledChosenForeknownPredestinedAppointedGlorifiedSaintsIn ChristUnder GraceThe New ManOur Certain FutureThe Christian Life

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RedemptionTo secure the release of someone from slavery or captivity by the payment of a ransomThe ransom is the payment (price) paid (Mark 10:45)The price paid to redeem us was the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19)The result is redemption, set free from slaveryConsider the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price in Matthew 13:44-45We are the hidden treasure and the pearl of great priceGod gave everything he had (His one and only Son) to purchase usThe Bible is a story of redemptionGod redeemed Israel from bondage in EgyptConsider the Kinsman Redeemer in Lev 25 and Book of RuthLord Jesus Christ, our Kinsman Redeemer, redeemed usRedeem, Redemption

Mark 10:45 "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (NASB)1 Peter 1:18-19 knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ. (NASB)

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SummaryWhen you see redeem or redemption in Scripture, think about God paying a high price to purchase us out of slavery, setting us freeIn redeeming us, God paid an infinite price in the shed blood and death of His one and only SonThe price paid was the price demanded by Gods perfect justiceOur redemption was done once, we are His prized possession, never to be sold againOur redemption cost us nothing but cost God everything in sacrificing His one and only SonTo relate in some way to what our redemption cost God, consider the narrative in Genesis 22 regarding Abrahams sacrifice of IsaacWe can only imagine what must have gone through Abrahams mind when God told him to go and sacrifice his only sonRedeem, Redemption

Righteousness the aspect of Gods character where He only does what is right, just and equitableThe one who is righteous does righteousness (1 John 3:7)Only God is righteous (Rom 3:10)Jesus Christ the Righteous One (1 John 2:1) (1 Pet 3:18)The Gospel demonstrates Gods righteousness (Rom 3:21-26)Man attempts to establish his own righteousness by works but fails (Rom 3:20)In Christ God has made us righteousRom 5:19 For just as through one mans disobedience the many were made sinners, so also through the one mans obedience the many will be made righteous. (HCSB)2 Cor 5:21 He made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. (HCSB) righteousness

Little children, let no one deceive you! The one who does what is right is righteous, just as He is righteous. 1 John 3:7 (HCSB)

My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the FatherJesus Christ the Righteous One. 1 John 2:1 (HCSB)

For Christ also suffered forsins onceforall, the righteous fortheunrighteous, that He might bringyou toGod, after being puttodeath inthefleshlyrealm but made alive inthespiritualrealm. 1 Peter 3:18 (HCSB)

For no one will be justified in His sight by the works of the law, because the knowledge of sin comes through the law. Romans 3:20 (HCSB)

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Justification and righteousness are closely related, coming from the same Greek root word (the adjective for righteous)To justify means either to declare or show to be righteous1 Cor 6:11 And some of you were thesethings, but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified (declared righteous) in the name of the Lord Jesusandby the Spirit of our GodJames 2:24 You see that a man is justified (shown to be righteous) by works and not by faith alone. (HCSB) How can God be righteous in calling us righteous if, in fact, we are unrighteous?Prov 17:15 He that justifies the wicked, and he that condemns the just, even they both are abomination to the LORDExodus 23:7 for I will not justify the wicked. (NET1) The answer is that He first made us righteous before declaring us righteous (Rom 5:19, 2 Cor 5:21)Justification

When we were crucified with Christ, our old man, who was unrighteous, was put to deathRom 6:7 For the one that died has been justified from sin. (LITV)When we were raised with Christ, God made our new man righteousEph 4:24and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth1 John 2:29 If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone also who does righteousness is born of Him1 John 3:7 Little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who does righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous;1 John 3:9 Everyone who has been born of God does not sin, because His seed remains in him; he is not able to sin, because he has been born of GodRighteousness is a gift that we receiveRom 5:17For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ

Justification/righteousness

Believers are 100% justified and 100% righteousWe have been made Gods righteousness in Christ (2 Cor 5:21, Rom 5:19) and be found in him, not because I have my own righteousness derived from the law, but because I have the righteousness that comes by way of Christs faithfulness a righteousness from God that is in factbased on Christsfaithfulness. Phil 3:9 (NET)Gods righteousness can not be improved uponWe can not add our righteousness based on works to His righteousnessGods righteousness can not be tarnished or diminishedThe opposite of justification is condemnation and there is NO condemnation for believersRom 8:1 Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.There is ZERO condemnation for believers, not even a littleJustification is not being made righteous. God made us righteous in regeneration (see next slide)Justification/righteousness

When we were dead in our sins, God made us aliveCol 2:13 And when you were dead in trespasses and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive with Him and forgave us all our trespassesWhen God made us alive He made us righteousOur new man is righteous (just as our old man was unrighteous)and to put on the new man, which according to God was created in righteousness and true holiness. Ephesians 4:24 (LITV)Regeneration includes the old man being put to death with Christ, and our new man being raised with ChristRom 6:4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.Regeneration and Sanctification in the same verseFor I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you [regeneration] will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. [sanctification] Philippians 1:6 (NASB)

REGENERATION

Characteristics of the one having been born* of GodEveryone who believes that Jesus is the Messiah has been born* of God, and everyone who loves the Father also loves the one born of Him. 1 John 5:1 (HCSB)If you know that He is righteous, know that everyone doing righteousness has been born* of Him. 1 John 2:29 (LITV) Everyone who has been begotten* of God does not sin, because His seed abides in him, and he is not able to sin, because he has been born* of God. 1 John 3:9 (LITV)Beloved, let us love one another, because love is of God, and everyone who loves has been born* of God, and knows God. 1 John 4:7 (LITV)We know that everyone having been born* of God does not sin, but the one born of God keeps [him], and the evil does not touch him. 1 John 5:18 (LITV)Because everything having been born* of God overcomes the world, and this is the victory overcoming the world, our faith. 1 John 5:4 (LITV)

REGENERATION

The old (creation)A new creationThe Old manThe New manA deceptively wicked heartA New heartDead in our sinsAlive unto God and righteousnessSinners that sinHe that is righteous does righteousnessOur old man - crucifiedWe have been raised to new lifeFrom the realm of the fleshTo the realm of the SpiritFrom the realm of earthTo the realm of HeavenFrom the realm of sinTo the realm of righteousnessFrom the realm of LawTo the realm of GraceFrom the realm of AdamTo the realm of Christ

REGENERATION

Before RegenerationAfter Regeneration

Reconciliation: Restoration to a previous harmonious relationshipGod has reconciled us to Himself. (He didnt need to reconcile Himself to us)Col 1:21-22 Once you were alienated and hostile in your minds because of your evil actions. But now He has reconciled you by His physical body through His death, to present you holy, faultless, and blameless before Him2 Cor 5:18 Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation,Rom 5:10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His lifeRECONCILIATION

Propitiation: The satisfaction, or turning away, of Gods just wrath against our sinGods righteous anger against our sin was satisfied by the blood shed on the cross by the Lord Jesus Christ, as He received the just punishment for our sin, in our placeNote: Expiation is spoken of in the Bible but typically does not occur in English translations. Expiation is the cancellation of sins, contrasting with propitiation, which is the appeasing of divine wrath.Propitiation and expiation are both illustrated in the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16 where Aaron takes two goats and casts lots for them, one for the Lord and the other for the scapegoatPropitiation

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The goat for the Lord is a sin offering. He slaughters the goat and sprinkles its blood on the mercy seat (See Lev 16:15)The first goat symbolizes Christs work on the cross: an innocent victim taking the place of the offending sinner, bearing the penalty of the sin they deserveJesus exhausted the wrath of God (propitiation) that we deserveAs all the people watched the High Priest would lay his hands on the scapegoats head and he would confess the sins of the people of Israel. They would watch as he released the scapegoat into the wilderness, never to be seen again - expiation (See Lev 16:20)The sins of the people were transferred to the scapegoat and were carried away from the presence of the Lord and the peopleAs far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12 (NASB)

Propitiation

The Lord Jesus Christ died in our place1 Cor 15:3-4 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scripturesjust as the Father knows me and I know the Father and I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:15 (NET1)But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NASB)In the above verses the word for is translated from the Greek huper, a preposition meaning on behalf of, or for the sake ofSometimes referred to as the vicarious suffering of ChristNo one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 (HCSB) For you were called tothis, because Christ also suffered foryou, leaving you anexample, so that you should follow inHissteps. 1 Peter 2:21 (HCSB)Substitution

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Sanctification: to be set apart for Gods holy purposeWe were sanctifiedHeb 10:10 By this will (Gods will) we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all1 Cor 6:11 Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our GodWe also participate in sanctification1 Thess 4:3 For this is Gods will, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality2 Cor 7:1 Therefore, dear friends, since we have such promises, let us cleanse ourselves from every impurity of the flesh and spirit, completing our sanctification in the fear of GodHeb 12:14 Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord

SANCTIFICATION

God has forgiven us all our sinsEph 4:32 Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven youCol 2:13 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,1 Joh 2:12 I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name's sakeAll of our sins are forgiven, once for all, past, present and future Heb 10:12-14 but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD, waiting from that time onward UNTIL HIS ENEMIES BE MADE A FOOTSTOOL FOR HIS FEET. For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctifiedRom 6:10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.forgiveness

Forgiven: I am writing to you, littlechildren, because your sins have beenforgiven because of Jesusname. 1 John 2:12 (HCSB) Forgotten: It is I who sweepaway yourtransgressions for My own sake and remember yoursins nomore. Isaiah 43:25 (HCSB)Removed: As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12 (NASB) It is You who has kept my soul from the pit of nothingness, For You have cast all my sins behind Your back. Isaiah 38:17 (NASB)He will again have compassion on us; He will tread our iniquities under foot. Yes, You will cast all their sins Into the depths of the sea. Micah 7:19 (NASB)"Come now, and let us reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool. Isaiah 1:18 (NASB)forgiveness

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Eternal Life: Life forever with God, in His presenceJohn 5:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perishever! No one will snatch them out of My hand.John 17:3 This is eternallife: that they may know You, theonlytrueGod, and the One YouhavesentJesusChrist.Acts 13:48 When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the message of the Lord, and all who had been appointed to eternal life believed.Rom 6:22 But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.1 John 5:13 I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.Eternal Life

He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. Ephesians 1:5-6 (NASB)Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God. Galatians 4:6-7 (NASB) See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 1 John 3:1 (NASB)For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God through faith. Galatians 3:26 (NET1)

adoption

It would still have been a wonderful thing if God rescued us from hell, then put us on some planet somewhere and let us alone. But He went much further, doing an amazing thing, making us sons and daughters of the living God, and even co-heirs of the Son.33

The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. Romans 8:16-17 (NASB)In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvationhaving also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NASB)I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might Ephesians 1:18-19 (NASB)Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 1 Peter 1:3-4 (NASB)inheritance

(John 13:8) You will never wash my feetever! Peter said. Jesus replied, If I dont wash you, you have no part with Me. (9) Simon Peter said to Him, Lord, not only my feet, but also my hands and my head. (10) One who has bathed, Jesus told him, doesnt need to wash anything except his feet, but he is completely clean. You are clean, but not all of you. (John 15:3) You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. (1 Corinthians 6:11) And some of you used to be like this. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.(Titus 3:5) He saved us not by works of righteousness thatwehaddone, but according to Hismercy, through the washing ofregeneration and renewal by theHolySpirit.

Washed

(1 Corinthians 3:17) If anyone destroys Gods sanctuary, God will destroy him; for Gods sanctuary is holy, and that is what you are. (Ephesians 1:4) For He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love(Ephesians 5:27) that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless.(Colossians 1:22) But now He has reconciled you by His physical body through His death, to present you holy, faultless, and blameless before Him(1 Thessalonians 5:23) Now may the God of peace himself make you completely holy and may your spirit and soul and body be kept entirely blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Made Holy

John 8:36 "So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.Rom 6:6-7 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin.Rom 6:14 For sin will not rule over you, because you are not under law but under grace.Rom 6:18 and having been freed from sin, you became* slaves of righteousnessRom 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death2 Cor 3:17 And the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty;Gal 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slaveryGal 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.* God set you free and made you to be a slave to righteousnessSet FREE

exaire verb Pluck out, take out, tear out. To remove of separate from danger and bring to safety, In the New Testament exaire may refer to a violent extraction (Matthew 5:29); to taking one out of indescribable circumstances (set free, deliver, rescue, see Acts 7:10); or to taking one away by force (Acts 23:27). Exaire can also mean deliver, select or choose out Acts 26:17. In all of the above occurrences, as well as over 75 occurrences in the Septuagint (translating no fewer than 15 different Hebrew words), this term carries with it the implication of implicit danger. Thus it is a strong verb used to describe an unquestionably necessary form of removal.Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5 (NASB)rescued

stria noun Salvation, deliverance, preservation1 Thess 5:9-10 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we will live together with HimHeb 5:9 And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvationRom 13:11 Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed. sz verb Save, keep safe, preserve, rescue, make wellTitus 3:5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,Eph 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boastSALVATION/ SAVED

sz, depending on the context, means save, or keep safe, or preserve, or rescue, or make wellNote that sz does not mean redeemed, or regenerated, or reconciled, or forgiven or given eternal lifeIn English, save means To preserve from injury, destruction or evil of any kind; to rescue from danger; as, to save a house from the flames; to save a man from drowning; to save a family from ruin; to save a state from war (Websters)1 Tim 4:16 Pay close attention to your life and your teaching; persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and your hearersTimothy will keep himself and his hearers safe by paying attention to himself and his teaching (doctrine)

SALVATION, SAVED

rhuomai verb Save, rescue, deliver. To rescue from a hostile power that seeks to enslaveFor He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, Colossians 1:13 (NASB)and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, that is Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come. 1 Thessalonians 1:10 (NASB)

rescued

prosagg noun Accessthrough whom we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of Gods glory. Romans 5:2 (NET1)For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father. Ephesians 2:18 (HCSB)In Him we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him. Ephesians 3:12 (HCSB)Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time. Hebrews 4:16 (HCSB)let us draw near with a sincere heart in the assurance that faith brings, because we have had our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. Hebrews 10:22 (NET1)12 For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous and his ears are open to their prayer. But the Lords face is against those who do evil. 1 Peter 3:12 (NET1) quote from Psalms 34:15-16Access

John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.Rom 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, Ephesians 2:14 (NASB)Rom 8:6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peaceRom 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.and through Him toreconcile everything toHimself by making peace through the blood ofHiscross whether things onearth orthings inheaven. Colossians 1:20 (HCSB)Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,2 Thess 3:16 May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with all of you.peace

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 (NASB)To rest is to cease working to establish our own righteousness and to rest in Gods provision in making us righteousFor we who have believed enter that rest, just as He has said, "AS I SWORE IN MY WRATH, THEY SHALL NOT ENTER MY REST," although His works were finished from the foundation of the world. Hebrews 4:3 (NASB)So there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God. Hebrews 4:9 (NASB)For the one who has entered His rest has himself also rested from his works, as God did from His. Hebrews 4:10 (NASB) Therefore let us be diligent to enter that rest, so that no one will fall, through following the same example of disobedience. Hebrews 4:11 (NASB)Return to your rest, O my soul, For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you. Psalm 116:7 (NASB)

Rest

"These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full. John 15:11 (NASB)for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Rom 14:17 (NASB)for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Rom 14:17 (NASB)But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, Galatians 5:22 (NASB)and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 1 Peter 1:8 (NASB)Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, Jude 1:24 (NASB)

joy

Definition of FaithNow faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen. Hebrews 11:1 (HCSB)Faith is given to us as a giftFor by the grace given to me, I tell everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he should think. Instead, think sensibly, as God has distributed a measure of faith to each one. Romans 12:3 (HCSB)For it has been given to you on Christs behalf not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, Philippians 1:29 (HCSB)Christ is the author and finisherkeeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of Gods throne. Hebrews 12:2 (HCSB)We are commanded to exercise our faithNow this is His command: that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another as He commanded us. 1 John 3:23 (HCSB)and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." Mark 1:15 (NASB)Faith

We live by faith (Rom 1:17)We walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7)We are saved by faith through grace (Eph 2:8)We are declared righteous by faith (Rom 3:28, Gal 2:16)We have access to God by faith (Rom 5:2, Eph 3:12)We stand by faith (Rom 11:20)We wait for the hope of righteousness by faith (Gal 5:5)We take up the shield of faith (Eph 6:16)We are commanded to exercise our faithNow this is His command: that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another as He commanded us. 1 John 3:23 (HCSB)and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." Mark 1:15 (NASB)Faith

Biblical hope is the patient waiting for what we absolutely know will happenFor in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. Romans 8:24-25 (NASB)For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4 (NASB)Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NASB)Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 1 John 3:2-3 (NASB)hope

"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 (NASB)But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NASB)For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 (NASB)But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), Ephesians 2:4-5 (NASB)The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14 (NASB)loveD

Jesus told him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6 (HCSB)You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:32 (HCSB)He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesnt see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be in you. John 14:17 (HCSB)I have not written to you because you dont know the truth, but because you do know it, and because no lie comes from the truth. 1 John 2:21 (HCSB)They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods that God created to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. 1 Timothy 4:3 (HCSB)Therefore, I intend to remind you constantly of these things even though you know them and are well established in the truth that you now have. 2 Peter 1:12 (NET1)Truth

(2 Corinthians 1:21) Now it is God who strengthens us, with you, in Christ and has anointed us. (22) He has also sealed us and given us the Spirit as a down payment in our hearts. (Ephesians 1:13) When you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and when you believed in Him, you were also sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. (14) He is the down payment of our inheritance, for the redemption of the possession, to the praise of His glory. (Ephesians 4:30) And dont grieve Gods Holy Spirit. You were sealed by Him for the day of redemption.Sealed

I give them (Christs sheep) eternal life, and they will never [absolutely never, ever] perish; no one will snatch them from my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can snatch them from my Fathers hand. The Father and I are one. John 10:28-30 (NET1) Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will trouble, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, For your sake we encounter death all day long; we were considered as sheep to be slaughtered. No, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us! For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor heavenly rulers, nor things that are present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35-39 (NET1)Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he gave us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, that is, into an inheritance imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. It is reserved in heaven for you, who by Gods power are protected through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:3-5 (NET1)Secure

Assurance: Knowing fully, with certainty, having complete confidenceGod desires us to know we have eternal lifeI have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. 1 John 5:13 (HCSB)The Gospel correctly presented contains full assuranceFor our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with much [full] assurance1 Thessalonians 1:5 (HCSB) We are told to have a heart with full assurance of faithlet us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. Hebrews 10:22 (HCSB) Assurance

kltos adjective Called out, invited, chosen, appointedincluding yourselves who also belong to Jesus Christ by calling: To all who are in Rome, loved by God, called as saints. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:6-7 (HCSB) We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 (HCSB)1 Jude, a slave of Jesus Christ and a brother of James: To those who are the called, loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ. Jude 1:1 (HCSB) klsis noun Call, calling, invitation, vocationHe has saved us andcalledus with aholycalling, not according to our works, but according to Hisownpurpose andgrace, which was given tous inChristJesus before timebegan. 2 Timothy 1:9 (HCSB)Called

See also Rom 11:29, 1Cor 1:26, 1 Cor 7:20, Eph 1:18, Eph 4:4, Phil 3:14, 2 Thess 1:11, Heb 3:1, 2 Pet 1:1054

kale verb Call, name, summon, invite (146 times in NT)And those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified. Romans 8:30 (HCSB)And what if He did this to make known the riches of His glory on objects of mercy that He prepared beforehand for gloryon us, the ones He also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles? Romans 9:23-24 (HCSB)For you were called to be free, brothers; only dont use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love. Galatians 5:13 (HCSB)we encouraged, comforted, and implored each one of you to walk worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. 1 Thessalonians 2:12 (HCSB)But you are achosenrace, aroyalpriesthood, a holy nation, apeople forHispossession, so that you mayproclaim thepraises of the One whocalledyou outofdarkness into His marvelouslight. 1 Peter 2:9 (HCSB) Called

eklegomai verb Choose, select, electFor he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world that we may be holy and unblemished in his sight in love. Ephesians 1:4 (NET1) eklog noun Selection, choice, chosenknowing your election, brothers loved by God. 1 Thessalonians 1:4 (HCSB)Therefore, brothers, make every effort to confirm your calling and election, because if you do these things you will never stumble. 2 Peter 1:10 (HCSB) eklektos adjective Chosen, select, elect.He did not even spare HisownSon but offered Him up forusall; how will He not also withHim grant useverything? Who can bring an accusation againstGodselect? God is the One whojustifies. Romans 8:32-33 (HCSB)

Chosen/ELECT

eklektos adj Chosen, select, elect (contd)Therefore, as the elect (chosen) of God, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a heart of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, Colossians 3:12 (NET1)Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to build up the faith of Gods elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness, Titus 1:1 (HCSB)But you are achosenrace, aroyalpriesthood, a holy nation, apeople forHispossession, so that you mayproclaim thepraises of the One whocalledyou outofdarkness into His marvelouslight. 1 Peter 2:9 (HCSB) ahire verb Choose, prefer, takeBut we ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 (NET1)

Chosen/ELECT

57

proginsk verb Know beforehandWe know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:28-29 (HCSB)He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was manifested in these last times for your sake. 1 Peter 1:20 (NET1) prognsis noun ForeknowledgePeter, an apostle of Jesus Christ: To the chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father and set apart by the Spirit for obedience and for sprinkling with the blood of Jesus Christ. May grace and peace be multiplied to you. 1 Peter 1:1-2 (HCSB)Though He was delivered up according to Gods determined plan and foreknowledge, you used lawless people to nail Him to a cross and kill Him. God raised Him up, ending the pains of death, because it was not possible for Him to be held by it. Acts 2:23-24 (HCSB)Foreknown

prooriz verb Set boundaries beforehand, appoint or determine beforehandAnd we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose, because those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; and those he called, he also justified; and those he justified, he also glorified. Romans 8:28-30 (NET1)For he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world that we may be holy and unblemished in his sight in love. He did this by predestining us to adoption as his sons through Jesus Christ, according to the pleasure of his will to the praise of the glory of his grace that he has freely bestowed on us in his dearly loved Son. Ephesians 1:4-6 (NET1)We have also received an inheritance in Him, predestined according to the purpose of the One who works out everything in agreement with the decision of His will, Ephesians 1:11 (HCSB)On the contrary, we speak Gods hidden wisdom in a mystery, a wisdom God predestined before the ages for our glory. 1 Corinthians 2:7 (HCSB)Predestined

tass verb Place, fix, determine, appoint, directWhen the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the message of the Lord, and all who had been appointed to eternal life believed. Acts 13:48 (HCSB) (Appointment preceded believing) tithmi verb To put, set, place, lay downYou did not choose Me, but I chose you. I appointed you that you should go out and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you. John 15:16 (HCSB)For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 1 Thessalonians 5:9 (KJV) charizomai verb Give generously, grant, bestow; remit, forgive, release, pardonFor it has been granted to you not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for him, Philippians 1:29 (NET1)Appointed

And those he predestined, he also called; and those he called, he also justified; and those he justified, he also glorified. Romans 8:30 (NET1)I have given them theglory YouhavegivenMe. May they be one as Weareone. John 17:22 (HCSB)And He did so to make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory, Romans 9:23 (NASB)but we speak God's wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God predestined before the ages to our glory; 1 Corinthians 2:7 (NASB)who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself. Philippians 3:21 (NASB)He called you to this through our gospel, so that you might obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:14 (HCSB)Glorified

hagios adj Holy; (things), consecrated; (persons), unapproachable, perfect, pure, upright, worthy of God, saintTranslated saints (61 times), holy or Holy, sanctuary or Holy place or Holiest placeRom 1:7 to all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called saints; Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ!Eph 1:4 according as He did choose us in Him before the foundation of the world, for our being holy and unblemished before Him, in love (YLT)but now he has reconciled you by his physical body through death to present you holy, without blemish, and blameless before him Colossians 1:22 (NET1)We are not sinners saved by grace rather I was a sinner, God saved me by His grace, I am now a saint (who occasionally still sins)Saints (Holy)

Sinners | SaintsSpiritually Dead (Unregenerate)Spiritually Alive (Col 2:13-14) CondemnedJustified (Rom 8:30)Not redeemedRedeemed (Eph1:7)UnrighteousRighteous (2 Cor 5:21)UnreconciledReconciled (Col 1:21-22)Do not have eternal life Have Eternal Life (John 3:36)CursedBlessed (Eph 1:3)In BondageSet Free (Rom 7:6)Children of the DevilAdopted as sons of God (1 John 3:1)SickHealed (1 Peter 2:24)Slaves to sinSlaves to Righteousness (Rom 6:18)Death reignsWe reign in life (Rom 5:17)Live in DarknessLive in the Light (1 Thess 5:4-5)Under Satans authorityIn His Sons Kingdom (Col 1:13)

1 Cor 1:30 But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became God-given wisdom for usour righteousness, sanctification, and redemption1 John 4:13 By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.Col 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3Jesus used the same language of Him and the FatherJohn 14:11 "Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves.John 17:20-21 "I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.In CHRIST

Grace: What God has graciously accomplished for us in ChristFor sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace. Romans 6:14 (NASB)But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace is no longer grace. Romans 11:6 (NASB)But they are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:24 (NET1) For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. Romans 5:17 (NASB)For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9 (NASB)You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. Galatians 5:4 (NASB)Falling from grace means falling back down to the LawUnder grace

My little children, I am writing you these things so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the FatherJesus Christ the Righteous One. 1 John 2:1 (HCSB)For the entire fullness of Gods nature dwells bodily in Christ, and you have been filled by Him, who is the head over every ruler and authority. Colossians 2:9-10 (HCSB) but our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20 (HCSB)for you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3 (NET1)He Himself bore oursins in His body onthetree, so that, having died tosins, we might live forrighteousness; you have been healed byHiswounds. 1 Peter 2:24 (HCSB)For the hearts ofthesepeople have growncallous, their ears are hard ofhearing, and they have shut theireyes; otherwise they mightsee withtheireyes and hear withtheirears, understand withtheirheart, and beconverted, and I would healthem. Acts 28:27 (HCSB)

Theres MOre

In Christ we are a new creation2 Cor 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things have come.Created in Christ, in union with HimEph 2:8-9 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus upon good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.Created by God in righteousness, holiness and truthEph 4:24 and to put on the new man, which, according to God, was created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.Created in Gods imageCol 3:9-10 Lie not one to another, having put off the old man with his practices, and having put on the new, which is renewed in regard to knowledge, after the image of Him who did create him;The New Man

Christ is in usCol 1:27 to whom God did will to make known what is the riches of the glory of this secret among the nations--which is Christ in you, the hope of the glory,Christ is our lifeCol 3:3-4 for ye did die, and your life hath been hid with the Christ in God; when the Christ--our life--may be manifested, then also we with him shall be manifested in glory.Rom 5:10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.Christ lives in usGal 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.The New Man

We were sealed with the Holy SpiritEph 1:13 When you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and when you believed in Him, you were also sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.The Holy Spirit is in our heart2 Cor 1:22 who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.Gal 4:6 Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"Gods love has been poured into our heartRom 5:5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.The New Man

We are Gods sons and daughters (John 1:12)We are redeemed (ransomed), eternally, irrevocablyWe are forgiven, fully, once and for all, permanentlyWe have been made the righteousness of Christ, eternally, which can not be diminished or added toWe have been declared righteous, eternally, irrevocablyWe are eternally in union with Christ, in Him, permanentlyWe have been regenerated, never to die againWe are alive in Christ, He is our life, He lives in us permanentlyWe have been reconciled to God, permanently, irrevocablyWe possess eternal life, which is forever and irrevocableWe have been sanctified and are being sanctifiedWe are protected by Gods infinite power and promisesWe are complete in Him, holy, without blemish, and blameless before HimWho we are in Christ

We possess new lifeeternal life, life forever with GodWe possess the Holy Spirit, sealed permanently with HimNow we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, 1 Corinthians 2:12 (NASB) We possess the Lord Jesus Christ, I am His and He is mineWe possess the gifts of the Holy Spirit, as He has given to eachWe possess all of Gods promises (7,000 of them!)We possess all thingsRom 8:32 He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?We possess an inheritance from God, co-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17)God has given us everything pertaining to life and godliness (2 Pet 1:3)He has equipped us with every good thing to do His will (Heb 13:20)God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heaven (Eph 1:3)We possess the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16)What we possess in Christ

In Adam | In ChristSinRighteousness (2 Cor 5:21) CondemnationJustification (Rom 5:19)DeathLife (1 Cor 15:22)FleshSpirit (Rom 8:9)The WorldThe Heavenlies (Eph 2:6)LawGrace (Rom 6:14)CurseBlessing (Gal 3:14)BondageLiberty (Rom 7:6)Sin ReignsGrace Reigns (Rom 5:21)Under sinUnder grace (Rom 6:14)Slaves to sinSlaves to Righteousness (Rom 6:18)Death ReignsWe reign in life (Rom 5:17)DarknessLight (1 Thess 5:4-5)Authority of Satans kingdomKingdom of God (Col 1:13-14)

Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. 1 John 3:2-3 (NASB)Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality. 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 (NASB)Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:17 (NASB)so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:7 (NASB)You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11 (NASB)Our certain future

We are to live as who we truly are in ChristEph 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus [upon] good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.Eph 4:1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called,Phil 3:16 Nevertheless, let us live up to the standard that we have already attained. (NET1) There are approximately 600 verses in the epistles containing commands. These commands are not a new law to follow, but a reflection of what our New Man already desires to doPhil 2:13 For it is God who is working in you, enabling you both to desire and to work out His good purpose. (HCSB)The presence of sin results in suffering for all believers1 Pet 5:9 But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. (NASB)The Christian life

Moment by moment, all believers face a conflict of two sets of desires within (Gal 2:17)The sin which dwells in me (Rom 7:17) has no power or authority butIt (they) tempts us to sin, appealing to our fleshly desiresIt (they) attempts to deceive us, to doubt God, to doubt His truth, to doubt His promises, to doubt His provisions, to doubt His goodness, Everything that is not of faith is sin (Rom 14:23)We obtain discernment through God renewing our mind (Rom 12:2) and through study of Gods Word (2 Tim 2:15)Apart from Christ we can do nothing (John 15:5)Through Christ we can do all things (Phil 4:13)When I am weak, He is strong (2 Cor 12:10)But godliness with contentment is a great gain (1 Tim 6:6)The Christian life

Live Like Who You Are and Will Be, Not Who You Were (Ephesians 4:17-32)

Who We Were - The Old Man

SpiritSpiritually Dead

SoulBodyEmotionsPhysical(tent)Flesh (evil desires)WillWho We Will Be - The TRUE You!

SpiritReborn Spirit(Godly desires)

SoulBodyEmotionsPhysical(Mansion)WillWho We Are - The New Man

SpiritReborn Spirit(Godly desires)

SoulBodyEmotionsPhysical(tent)Flesh (evil desires)WillOur Glorified BodyOur Old Man was crucified with Christ(Romans 6:6)I am no longer the one doing it but sin that dwells in me (Romans 7:20)We have two opposing desires in us (Galatians 5:17)Walk by the Spirit and we wont fulfill the desires of the flesh (Gal 5:17)

MindKingdom of DarknessPowerAuthoritySinMindKingdom of DarknessNo powerNo authorityHoly SpiritSinMindHoly Spirit

And their impact on the GospelControversies

There have been and still are many controversies surrounding the Gospel of Jesus ChristWe all need to be aware of these controversies as we will all run into themHow we address each controversy impacts the Gospel we believe in and the Gospel we proclaimWe all have a responsibility to consider and study these thingsThese controversies are not simple nor easily dismissedComparing Scripture with Scripture and resolving any perceived contradictions is our greatest challenge and responsibilityNo man knows as he ought to know1 Cor 8:2 If anyone supposes that he knows anything, he has not yet known as he ought to know; We see through a glass darkly1 Cor 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.Gospel Controversies

Now this matter arose because of the false brothers with false pretenses who slipped in unnoticed to spy on our freedom that we have in Christ Jesus, to make us slaves. Galatians 2:4 (NET1)See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. Colossians 2:8 (NASB)For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. Jude 1:4 (NASB)holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict. For there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, Titus 1:9-10 (NASB)Then we will no longer be little children, tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching, by human cunning with cleverness in the [systemizing] of deceit. Ephesians 4:14 (HCSB)Be alert, Be On Guard

The epistle to the Christians in Galatia was Pauls first epistleHe wrote it to address the first major problem that manifested in the churches he establishedThe Christians in Galatia started out correctly, understanding they were redeemed by the blood of Christ alone, by grace alone, through faith alone (and not by works of the Law)But some came and told them, while they started out in grace they must continue to live under the Law of MosesI.e., the Galatians started out righteous but needed to place themselves back under Law in order to maintain or enhance their righteousnessOr forgiveness, or eternal life, or redemption, or salvation, Galatianism (legalism) is still rampant in the (worldwide) church today, possibly the single largest problemGalatiAnism

We are not under Law but under GraceRom 6:14 For sin will not rule over you, because you are not under law but under grace.We are not to follow rules and regulations in order to establish, enhance or keep from diminishing our righteousness. By grace, God has made us righteous, as He is righteous, and has declared us to be soWe have been set free from the Law of Sin and DeathRom 8:1-2 Therefore, no condemnation now exists for those in Christ Jesus, because the Spirits law of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.We died to the LawRom 7:6 But now we have been released from the law, since we have died to what held us, so that we may serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old letter of the law.Gal 3:19 (NASB) Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions, having been ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator, until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made.GalatiAnism (contd)

The power of sin is in the Law1 Cor 15:56 Now the sting of death issin, and the power ofsin isthelaw.If you want a believer to sin more, then put them or keep them under lawLaw: a system of works to establish our own righteousnessIf you want someone to sin less, keep them under graceGrace: a system of faith, believing we are Gods righteousness because of Christs faithfulnessIn summary, the false gospel proclaimed in Galatia was something like, Christ died for your sins but now you must keep the Law of Moses to stay righteousThe true Gospel states that Christs death in our place set us free from slavery to sin and to the Law and we are now eternally righteous2 Corinthians 3:9For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness overflows with even more glory. GalatiAnism (contd)

This controversy has been raging since at least the 4th centuryHow we deal with this controversy will determine:The Gospel that we believe and live under, moment by momentThe Gospel that we proclaim to non-believers (and believers)Christians love to discuss predestination perhaps more than any other topicThe focus of this presentation is on how our resolution of this controversy impacts the GospelRecall Pauls warning/commandGal 1:8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed!Gal 1:9 As we have said before, I now say again: If anyone preaches to you a gospel contrary to what you received, a curse be on him!Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism

Pelagianism: A theology from Pelagius, a British monk (A.D. 360 420) that emphasizes human ability and free will rather than human depravity and sinfulnessAugustine of Hippo (354-430), an early church Bishop, disputed with Pelagius, arguing for the depravity of man and necessity of divine predestinationSemi-Pelagianism: a theology developed in the 5th and 6th century that attempted to mediate between the positions of Pelagius and Augustine Arminianism: a theology developed by followers of James Arminius, a Dutch Reformer (1560-1609), a theology similar to Semi-PelagianismCalvinism: a theology developed by followers of John Calvin, a French Reformer (1509-1564) that opposed PelagianismSynod of Dort: a national Synod in Holland, called to meet in 1618 to address the Five Remonstrances submitted by the followers of Arminius to change the Belgiac Confession of Faith and the Heidelberg Catechism. 154 sessions were held over 7 months with up to 1,500 participants from Holland, Germany, Switzerland, England, resulting in the publishing of five chapters that documented the Synods unanimous rejection of the Five RemonstrancesPelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism

Martin Luther (1483-1546), the great German Reformer disputed with Desiderius Erasmus, arguing against the free will of man, writing The Bondage of the WillJonathan Edwards (1703-1758), perhaps the greatest American philosopher-theologian, authored The Freedom of the Will, arguing for the total depravity of manGeorge Whitefield (1714-1770), a great Methodist evangelist, held to a Calvinist theologyJohn Wesley (1703-1791), founder of Methodism, held to a theology that was Arminian in orientationCharles Finney (1792-1875) held to an Arminian theology and perfectionist view of sanctificationThe church in early America was staunchly CalvinisticThe pendulum has swung the other way such that the modern evangelical church is predominantly ArminianTechnically, holding to the first four Remonstrances but rejecting the fifth, i.e., rejecting that eternal assurance is in questionPelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

The maxim of Semi-Pelagianism is, it is mine to be willing to believe, and it is the part of Gods grace to assistA synergistic GospelGod and man togetherThe position of Calvinism is that an unregenerate person is absolutely incapable of choosing to believe, receive, accept or repent, requiring first the gracious regeneration, which will always be followed by repentance and beliefA monergistic GospelGod and God aloneHow do these positions impact the message of the Gospel that we are to proclaim?Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)The Synergistic Gospel (man-centered)The Monergistic Gospel (God centered)If you decide to

BelieveAcceptReceiveRepentPrayAsk

then, and only then, God will

ForgiveRedeemJustifyReconcileGive eternal life toRegenerateSaveyou.God has

RedeemedJustifiedReconciledGiven eternal life toRegeneratedForgiven

us.After regeneration we hear, we repent (change our mind), we believe and we accept. We may initially pray and ask for forgiveness but we dont need to as we are already forgiven. Better to pray and thank God for our redemption, justification, reconciliation, eternal life, regeneration, and forgiveness.

The central issue with the Calvinist position seems to be:How can God choose some to go to heaven and the rest to go to hell and still be just and fair?Rom 9:14 What shall we say then? There is no injustice with God, is there? May it never be!Rom 9:19-24 You will say to me then, "Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?" On the contrary, who are you, O man, who answers back to God? The thing molded will not say to the molder, "Why did you make me like this," will it? Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for common use? What if God, although willing to demonstrate His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction? And He did so to make known the riches of His glory upon vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for glory, even us, whom He also called, not from among Jews only, but also from among Gentiles.Fact: God is perfectly fair, just and righteousFact: God is completely sovereign over all His creation and everything in itHis ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts (Isa 55:8-9)Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

Problems with the Arminian positionScripture strongly declares the total depravity of man and Gods foreknowledge and predestination of men(My personal study finds that for every NT passage that seems to support the Arminian position there are approx. 14 passages that support a Calvinist position)(Out of 121 or so NT passages addressing the subject, it is easier for me to resolve the apparent conflict of 8 passages seeming to support Arminianism versus trying to make the 113 Calvinist passages support an Arminian theology)The Arminian position exalts the sovereignty of man with respect to determining eternal destinyIt exalts the power of mans will, insisting it is free to choose to repent, believe, accept and receive the GospelEternal Life = What Christ Did + My DecisionMathematically then: Eternal Life What Christ Did = My DecisionEternal life is ultimately entirely up to my decisionThe Arminian position invariably leads to difficulty with eternal assuranceHow does one know if they truly repented, sufficiently believed exactly what is necessary to believe to qualify for heaven, and can maintain qualification for heaven despite persistent sin in his/her life?Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is indicative or declarativeIt is a statement of fact, or statements of factsIt is a message about what God has done for us through ChristThe Gospel is not an invitation but a commandGod commands all men everywhere to repentActs 17:30 Therefore, having overlooked the times of ignorance, God now commands all people everywhere to repentJesus commanded the Jews to repent and believe the GospelMark 1:15 and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.The Ransom price God paid in the shed blood and death of Christ is not a potential pricei.e., only valid if one accepts, receives or believes itSuch a concept can not be supported in ScriptureMark 10:45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His lifea ransom for many.Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

All are commanded to obey the gospel but not all will obey1 Pet 2:7-8 This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for those who disbelieve, "THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER stone," and, "A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE"; for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this they were also appointed.2 Thess 1:8-9 taking vengeance with flaming fire on those who dont know God and on those who dont obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction from the Lords presence and from His glorious strengthThe command is to obey the Gospel (believe the Gospel)

Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

God is the one who opens our heartA woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple fabrics, a worshiper of God, was listening; and the Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul. Acts 16:14 (NASB)God is the one who grants that we believeFor to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, Philippians 1:29 (NASB)When the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord; and as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed. Acts 13:48 (NASB)God allots to each a measure of faithFor through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. Romans 12:3 (NASB)God is the one who grants repentancewith gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth, 2 Timothy 2:25 (NASB)God placed us in ChristBut by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption, so that, just as it is written, "LET HIM WHO BOASTS, BOAST IN THE LORD." 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 (NASB)Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, arminianism (contd)

20 He was chosen before the foundation of the world but was revealed at the end of the times for you 21 who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God. 1 Peter 1:20-21 (HCSB) through Him -> by means of Him, through the agency of Him92

The eternal assurance of the believer has long been a controversy, and still isThe fifth Remonstrance from the followers of Arminius stated that assurance should be studied furtherMany today go beyond the fifth Remonstrance and hold that:The believer has no assurancewe wont know until we get to heaven and God lets us inAgain, how does this impact the Gospel that we believe and proclaim?I have Great News for you, Christ died for our sins and those who believe have eternal lifemaybe.assurance

There are some who refuse to teach that believers have assurance for fear that doing so will give believers a license to sinThey will focus on some passages that appear to say a believer can lose their salvation, but ignore those passages that clearly state the absolute assurance of eternal lifeThe implication is that the believer has to do something to insure getting into heaven by minding their Ps and Qs, i.e., not sinning too muchImplying there is a threshold, that if crossed, God blots their name out of the Book of Life and the believer goes to HellOnly by maintaining this fear of Hell, they say, will believers be motivated to avoid sin, walk the narrow road, and to love Godassurance

If we are eternally redeemed, God having paid the ransom price to purchase us, never to sell us again, can a believer somehow become unredeemed?If we have been completely forgiven all our sins, past present and future, once and for all, can a believer somehow become unforgiven?If a believer possesses eternal lifelife forever with God, can a believer somehow loose possession of eternal life?If a believer has been eternally reconciled to God, can a believer somehow become unreconciled?If Christ paid the just penalty for our sin, once and for all, could a believer ever be held accountable for sin?Can a believer ever possess complete peace and rest if his eternal destiny still depends on his performance?assurance

Can a believer sin as much as he wants to and still go to heaven?A true believer already is sinning more than he wants to, which is any sin more than zeroWill some abuse Gods grace?Jude 1:4 For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus ChristWill some misunderstand Gods grace?Rom 3:8 And why not say (as we are slanderously reported and as some claim that we say), "Let us do evil that good may come"? Their condemnation is just.Heb 10:22 let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.assurance

In Hebrews 13:5 God literally states, I will absolutely never, ever leave you, I will absolutely never, ever forsake you!John 10:27-29 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will [absolutely never ever] perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. "My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand.John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will [absolutely never ever] die. Do you believe this?The Lord leaves no doubt in His Word: once redeemed, always redeemed, once forgiven, always forgiven, once justified, always justified, eternal life is just thateternal!Assurance

This test demonstrates how Galatianism leads to no assuranceAre we now forgiven for all our sins, past, present and future, as stated in Eph 4:32, Col 3:13, 1 John 2:12, Heb 10:12-14Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 (NASB)Or, is our forgiveness contingent on forgiving others?Matt 6:14-15 :For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.Does the passage in Matthew say that if we dont forgive everyone of their transgressions, God wont forgive us and we therefore end up in hell because we are not forgiven? So does getting into heaven depends entirely on us completely forgiving everyone of all their transgressions against us all the days of our life up to our very last breath?Heres a test

When did the Old covenant end and the New covenant in his blood begin?Answer: After Christ shed his blood on the cross, died and roseMatt 6:14-15 was spoken under the old covenant*Eph 4:32, Col 3:13, 1 John 2:12, Heb 10:12-14 were written after His death, burial and resurrection, i.e., under the new covenant in His bloodOur sins, past, present and future, have been forgiven, once and for all, forever and irrevocablyShould we forgive others as Christ has forgiven us? Of course!Col 3:13 bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.*Note: we can apply much of what Jesus said before the cross but we as believers must consider what the Holy Spirit said in Gods Word after the events of the cross, specifically in Acts, the Epistles and the Revelation of Jesus Christ to John

Answers to the test

Mental AssentDefined as: If a person gives mental assent to the man Jesus being God and dying for their sins, being raised from the dead, then that person is savedIt may include responding to an altar callIt may include reciting the sinners prayerTrue ConversionThe sinner has been regeneratedborn again, born from above, his dead spirit has been quickened (made alive)Repentance and belief follow regeneration2 Tim 2:25 with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth,Phil 1:29 For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sakeFruit follows repentenceMatt 3:8 "Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance;Mental assent vs. true conversion

The result of assuming mental assent is sufficient for conversion has had devastating consequencesIt gives a false assurance to those who have given mental assent but are not truly converted (regenerated)You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. James 2:19 (NASB)Churches are filled with those who are not true believers, causing strife and confusion2 Cor 6:14 Do not be mismatched with unbelievers. For what partnership is there between righteousness and lawlessness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?Mental assent results from a weakened, diminished GospelThe good news is that if you assent in your mind to the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for your sins then you are savedThe evangelistic focus has become persuading someone to give mental assent as opposed to proclaiming the message and leaving the result with the Holy SpiritMental assent vs. true conversion

A true believer has been regenerated (born again, born from above, quickened, made alive spiritually)A true believer can hear, see, repent, believe, understand, discern truth from error, have fellowship with other believersA true believer has the Holy Spirit to help, guide, teach, give him power, love and a sound mindTrue conversion is the result of Gods gracious act of regenerationNot necessarily reciting the sinners prayerNot necessarily walking the aisle to an altar callAlthough God may use these thingsA true believer, sooner or later, will manifest fruit unto GodMental assent vs. true conversion