INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Once saved, always saved?
Introductory Remarks.
1. In this lesson today, we will be discussing the theme: “Once Saved, Always Saved?" This will become the thirteenth lesson in the sermon-series entitled: "Re-digging in Old Wells." There will be many others bearing this title. We are re-digging in old wells to obtain Isaiah's promise: "With joy, you will draw water from the wells of salvation," Isaiah 12:3. There are times we must re-dig in old wells to obtain the joy found in the: "waters of salvation." This sermon type is called: "textual preaching." In these lessons, our goal will be: "to dig a little deeper" in the text of emphasis. We will allow the writer, the characters in the verses, and the Master's words to shed new meaning to His words of eternal life, John 6:63; John 10:10.
2. We will consider this question is a man: " Once saved, always saved?” By this, we mean: Can a person be saved and always saved, regardless of what kind of life they lead after being saved by the grace of God? Is there such a thing as: "Once saved, always saved?" We will re-dig in old wells to find a biblical answer. Ulysses Shields called this kind of teaching: "digging a little deeper" in the word of truth. He was my grandfather in Christ. We will use this scripture as a foundational text for this sermon-series: "And Isaac re-dug the wells of water, which they had dug in the days of Abraham...for the Philistines had stopped them (closed them up) after Abraham's death," Genesis 26:18. The Philistines: "Stopped them, and filled them with earth," because they envied Isaac's possessions, Genesis 26:14-15.
3. Our text of emphasis reads like this: "Christ has become no effect unto you, whosoever are justified by the law; you are fallen from grace,” Galatians 5:4. This theme may be troubling to the readers and hearers of this lesson. Still, Calvinist preachers and teachers advocate: "The elect of God has been predestined to salvation, regardless of their lives after their call of faith into God’s grace.” We will do a thorough investigation of this teaching in the lesson. However, it is essential to consider every text within the context of the scriptures. With God’s help, we will do just that, to draw: “New water from old wells.” With this introduction, let’s consider this topic carefully, with both our bibles and hearts opened unto the living God.
BODY OF LESSON
I ONCE SAVED, ALWAYS SAVED?
A. Preliminary work. Before we dig into the text of emphasis. It is advisable to do some preliminary work before embarking on a topic such as this one. This is not a lesson for “babes” but for those capable of “eating strong meat” or: trained to “discern between good and evil,” Hebrews 5:12-14. We’ll begin with Paul's somber (or grave) warning to the Hebrew saints. He wrote: “We ought to give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip…For if the word spoken by angels…How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation…according to His own will?" Hebrews 2:1-4. Text shortened for brevity. Let’s consider Paul’s somber warning in this text. Consider,
1. First, “Therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we let them slip," Hebrews 2:1. As saints of God, we ought to think about these things constantly to not let them slip from our minds or proximate view, James 1:22-27.
2. Further, "For if the word spoken by angels (God’s angelic hosts) was steadfast, every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward," Hebrews 2:2.
a. Under the Old Covenant, no disobedience or transgressions were overlooked, Hebrews 12:25. All received a just recompense of reward. Would not the same be valid under the New Covenant?
b. God has not committed to any under either Covenant, the liberty to sin without issuing a just recompense of reward. There is a reward for habitual sinning under this Covenant. Paul again,
c. For the “wage(s) of sin is (are) death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord,” Romans 6:23; Ezekiel 18:18-20. God’s penalty for sin is death! Spiritual separation from Him, Isaiah 59:1-2.
3. Next, “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him," Hebrews 2:3. How can the believers think that they will escape the Judgment of God? How could they think their neglect of this great salvation would not go unpunished? The great salvation has begun with the Lord and confirmed unto us by them that heard Him, the apostles of Christ. They continued preaching this message of hope and salvation into all the nations, Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Acts 2:5.
4. Finally, "God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers' miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His own will," Hebrews 2:4. Through signs, wonders, and miracles, God certified their message and granted unto the repentant believers, obedient to the faith: the gift of the Holy Ghost, Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:14; Ephesians 1:12-14. Acts 5:32.
5. Conclusion: What was Paul's actual warning to these saints? Not to allow themselves to neglect so great a salvation by letting it slip away from them and falling short of God’s grace through unbelief, disobedience, transgressions, and sin. Observe,
a. His thesis was this: “If every sin, transgression, and disobedience” brought upon Israel, “a just recompense of reward.” How can those under “so great salvation:" whose "failing or falling away from God’s grace” will not give them a greater recompense of reward?
b. The apostles of Christ have given this truth a thorough and exhaustive discussion. Anyone contending that the “elect of God” will be saved regardless of their sins; their removal from or desertion of the faith; or persistent unbelief and disobedience to God’s will, is pure nonsense.
c. This was not permitted under the Old Covenant. How could anyone contend it is possible under the New Covenant? Remember, “every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward,” Hebrews 2:2.
1) Beware, it's frightful: “And a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God,” Hebrews 10:31; Hebrews 10:27.
2) He shall recompense: “For our God is a consuming fire,” Hebrews 12:29; Romans 12:19.
3) Be forewarned: “Fear Him, which after He hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear Him,” Luke 12:5; Matthew 10:28. Consider these writers' comments,
d. B. W. Johnson wrote: “For if the word spoken by angels. The Jewish law. See notes on Acts 7:53 and Gal. 3:19. The law was given through the medium of angels, as was confessed by the Jews. See Josephus, Antiq. XV: 5, section 3. Was steadfast. Confirmed by a penalty upon transgressors. Every transgression. Nothing is plainer in all Jewish history than that obedience to the law was rewarded and disobedience punished. How shall we escape? How then, if this was true of the law, can we hope to escape if he neglects the message of the Son? So great salvation. Not a temporal, but eternal salvation, the salvation of the gospel,” Page 613.
e. Matthew Henry wrote: “From the great loss we shall sustain if we do not take this earnest heed to the things which we have heard: We shall let them slip…Those meet with an inconceivable loss who let gospel truths, which they had received, slip out of their minds; they have lost a treasure far better than thousands of gold and silver; the seed is lost, their time and pains in hearing loss, and their hopes of a good harvest lost; all is lost, if the gospel is lost…This consideration should be a strong motive both to our attention to the gospel and our retention of it; and indeed, if we do not well attend, we shall not long retain the word of God; inattentive hearers will soon be forgetful hearers,” Page 1286. Before moving to the text of emphasis, let's consider some additional preparatory work on this subject. Much has been written by the apostle Paul. Consider, this
B. Additional preparatory work. Paul’s other warnings throughout his Letter to the Hebrews. He wrote: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fails of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; Lest there be any…as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright…for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears,” Hebrews 12:14-17. Text shortened for brevity. In our text of emphasis, we will consider these verses later in the lesson. Paul continued,
1. First, "Take heed, brethren, lest there be an evil heart of unbelief in any of you, departing from the living God,” Hebrews 3:12-14.
a. The warning: “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you.” Give attention to this.
b. The sin: “An evil heart of unbelief.” Beware of an evil heart of unbelief.
c. The results: "In departing from the living God." An evil heart can cause one to depart from the living God. This will be possible due to the deceit of sin, their unbelief, and disobedience!
d. B. W. Johnson wrote: "Take heed … lest, etc. They fell from unbelief, which led them to depart from God. Take heed, lest you Hebrew Christians seeking the heavenly rest should fall. But exhort one another daily. Continually stir each other to duty, lest you be hardened against God's voice by the deceitfulness of sin. How sin deceives us by making false promises of happiness and safety," Page 616-617.
e. Matthew Henry: “He enforces the admonition with an affectionate compellation: "Brethren, not only in the flesh, but in the Lord; brethren whom I love, and for whose welfare I labor and long." And here he enlarges upon the matter of the admonition: Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. Here observe (1.) A heart of unbelief is an evil heart. Unbelief is a great sin; it vitiates (corrupts) the heart of man. (2.) An evil heart of unbelief is at the bottom of all our sinful departures from God; it is a leading step to apostasy; if we allow ourselves to distrust God, we may soon desert him. (3.) Christian brethren need to be cautioned against apostasy. Let those who think they stand to take heed lest they fall," Page 1298-1299. —What a different view here than John Calvin and others: who ignore the truth of the scriptures.
2. Further, "Let us labor, therefore, to enter into that rest, lest any man falls after the same example of unbelief,” Hebrews 4:11-14. Remain vigilant and busy to enter into that rest. Lest any of us also fall through the same example of unbelief.
a. The warning: “Let us labor to enter into that rest.”
b. The sin: “The same example of unbelief.”
c. The results: “Lest any man fall.” What?
d. Lest any man fall. Does “any man” in this verse include the “called and elect?”
3. Next, "For it is impossible for those once enlightened to have tasted the heavenly gift…If they shall fall away, renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame," Hebrews 6:4-6.
a. The warning: “It is impossible for those…who tasted of the heavenly gift... to renew them again unto repentance.”
b. The sin: “Seeing they crucify…the Son of God; and put Him to an open shame.”
c. The results: “If they shall fall away.” Fall away from what?
d. What are these "falling away," from in this text?
e. B. W. Johnson wrote: “If they fall away. Apostatize from the faith. To renew them to repentance. He is so far fallen that he has no capacity left for repentance. Judas the Apostate sorrowed, but his sorrows became despair. There was remorse but not repentance. Crucify…the Son of God afresh. By rejecting Christ, they place themselves with those who rejected him and crucified him because he affirmed that he was the Son of God. Those meant are not those “overtaken in a fault,” or backsliders only, but men once Christians…who not only turned away from but (now also) oppose Christ,” Page 621-622.
4. Another, “For if we sin willfully after that, we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins…Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God and counted the blood of the Covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?” Hebrews 10:26-29. Text shortened for brevity. Observe,
a. The warning: “If we sin willfully.” Who are these being mentioned? It included those Paul now writes to, himself and all believers. When we sin willfully, with intent, lustful desires, habitually. We are in danger of falling from the grace of God. And if this be so,
b. The results: “How much sorer punishment, suppose you, shall he be thought worthy?” What punishment is Paul referencing? Who is in danger of such punishment?
c. The sin: "Who hath?" Those who have committed these offenses have received the knowledge of the truth. For them, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins. Christ will not return to earth and offer Himself again in sacrifice for their sins. What remaineth is "a certain fearful looking for (the) judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries," Hebrews 10:27. Consider,
1) Here, the “elect of God" are being classed: as the “adversaries” or the “enemies of God.”
2) They were once the "enlightened saints," but now the adversaries of God, awaiting His Judgment and fiery indignation.
3) The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament reads: "But some terrible expectation of judgment and a blaze of fire being about to consume the ones opposed," Page 774. The NRSV, Hebrews 10:27.
4) Not a very good portrait of these saints. Their sins have caused their destruction!
d. Paul continued: "Who hath?” Who are these who have done such terrible things to the Godhead: (The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost)?
1) First, “Trodden underfoot the Son of God?" These are the "salt that has lost its savor." They are suitable for nothing: "but to be cast out, and trodden under foot of men," Matthew 5:13. They are likened to a swine. Consider,
a) Jesus said: “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast you (your) pearls before (the) swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you,” Matthew 7:6.
b) Peter wrote: “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 to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them after they have known it. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb: The dog has turned to his vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire,” 2 Peter 2:20-22.
c) These are the saints who once knew the way of righteousness and tasted the good things to come but now have turned from the holy commandments delivered unto them. They have become: "The dog that has turned to his vomit again; and the sow (the prize-winning hog), that was washed (made clean) to her wallowing in the mire (mud)." What a sad and terrible end for those: "Let so great salvation slip from their hearts and out of their hands." Recall, however,
d) According to Calvin, these could only be the “elect of God.” It sounds like they have fallen far from God, into the sinful abyss, resulting in their departing from the living God. They also have,
2) Second, “Counted the blood of the covenant:” The Covenant of Christ.
a) “Wherewith he was sanctified,” to serve the living God.
b) “An unholy thing?” Counting the precious blood of Christ, an unholy thing, 1 Peter 1:18-19.
c) How shall they escape if they neglect so great a salvation?
3) Third, “And Hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace.” They have now done despise to the Holy Spirit of God. Like Ananias and Sapphira, who lied unto the Holy Ghost and fell dead before the whole church, Acts 5:1-11. These were saints judged by the Holy Spirit, not having a chance to repent or be forgiven by God. They had not lied unto men but unto God!
4) May I ask of the Calvinists? Are these the elect sinning willfully before God?
5) Remember, all the non-elect are already condemned to hell. I will not let them shy away now by saying: "these weren't the real elect of God." To admit such is to infer that God does not know: Who He has “called and elected" into the “way of righteousness.”
a) What a bold and contradictive doctrine!
b) That the God of heaven calls His very elect; but does not know those who are His faithful.
c) Or, worse, God’s “elect,” will be saved regardless of their unbelief, disobedience, and sins.
d) To what ends will false teachers “degenerate into a strange vine,” before God? Jeremiah 2:21.
e) Rather than confessing: “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” Revelations 2:10; 2 Timothy 4:16-18; 1 Peter 5:1-4. B. W. Johnson commented on these verses.
e. He wrote: “For if we sin willfully. Deliberately trample underfoot Christ's will; (we) apostatize from the faith in life. We have, in that case, rejected Christ, the only sacrifice for sin. There remains instead a looking for judgment. Cut off from the hope of salvation by rejecting Christ; one has only judgment and punishment to look forward to. He that despised Moses' law'...had no remission. When proved guilty by two or three witnesses, his fate was death. See Num. 15:30–36; Deut. 13:6–10. There was mercy for the ignorant, the mistaken, those "overtaken," but not for the deliberate despiser...of how much sorer punishment. Where much is given, much is required. How great the sin of the apostate! Trodden under-foot the Son of God. Counted the blood of the Covenant, the blood of Christ, the blood by which he was sanctified (cleansed from the guilt of sin), and treated this blood as if it was unholy—done despite unto the (Spirit) of grace. Reject(ing) all the work, the words, the preaching, the pleadings of the Holy Spirit. A fearful thing for the sinner who has despised God's mercy; for the apostate who has trampled it underfoot," Page 632. Let me remind you again that this is the teaching of Calvinism. The propagation of “once saved, always saved,” by some, i.e., the “elect and chosen” of God.
f. Conclusion: Who are these that have despised the grace of God? It could not be the ungodly or the non-elect. They are not even in the faith (according to Calvinism). They are eternally condemned to hell per their doctrine.
1) They could only be the “elect or chosen of God.” They are the only ones who: “Have received the knowledge of the truth; and are sinning willfully.”
a) What a disgraceful doctrine: once saved, always saved.
b) Remember, according to their doctrine: “the ‘elect or chosen ones’ are predestined to glory" (even in this undone and sinful condition). (Insertion is mine).
c) Who could believe such a damnable doctrine with a sane mind and faithful heart?
2) Paul could only be referring to: “the saints who are sinning willfully,” who have “fallen from God’s grace through their unbelief, disobedience, and the deceitfulness of sin,” Hebrews 3:12-13; Hebrews 4:11.
3) Remember Paul’s “somber warning” unto them, Hebrews 2:1-4. These have indeed: “Neglected so great salvation; and have let the things heard, slip away from them!”
4) Is there hope for these saints? Only through true repentance and confession of sins, can one be forgiven, reconciled, and, restored to the grace and fellowship of God, James 5:13-16; 1 John 1:7-9.
5. Finally, “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man (draws) back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition (destruction); but of them, who believe unto the saving of the soul,” Hebrews 10:38-39. Consider this,
a. The promise: “The just shall live by faith.” Are these the “elect of God?”
b. The sin: “If any man (draws) back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Are these the “non-elect of God?”
c. The results: “We are not of them who draws back unto perdition, but of them, who believe unto the saving of the soul.” Now, let’s analyze this text carefully. Here we go,
d. Which of these mentioned in this text are God's "elect" and the "non-elect"?
1) If the “elect of God,” they must be: “the just that shall live by faith, unto the saving of their soul?”
2) If so, then the “elect of God,” can draw back unto perdition or destruction?”
3) Are these the “non-elect," that are drawn back to perdition or destruction?
a) How could this even be possible per the Calvinist doctrine?
b) The “non-elect” has already been predestined “to hell and damnation.”
c) Then, the “elect of God” isn’t predisposed to salvation but can “drawback to perdition?”
4) The Calvinists’ have a dilemma on their hands right about now! I must stress this point! Now,
NOTE: Read Hebrews 10:30-37. These verses tell the saints why they should hold fast to the profession of their faith. God is faithful to all His promises. Consider these,
6. Other New Testament examples. Where the saints "forsook the faith or fell from God’s grace.”
a. Paul wrote to Timothy: “Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica," 2 Timothy 4:10; 1 John 2:15-17. Paul sent the other ministers to their destinations. But Demas hath forsaken Paul and the faith.
b. James wrote to the Jews: "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,” James 5:19-20; 1 Peter 4:8.
1) I wonder if James had Peter in mind when he wrote this Letter unto the saints?
2) He knew of the offense of Peter at Antioch and attended the Conference in Jerusalem, Galatians 2:11-16; Acts 15:1-5; Acts 15:13-14.
3) James quoted the prophet Amos, which settled the Gentiles’ inclusion into the faith: “by the grace of God,” Acts 15:15-18; Amos 9:11-12.
4) James was once a proponent: "of separation, circumcision, and the keeping of the law." Now he stands opposed to these in word and Letter: drafted by the Holy Spirit, and the Jerusalem Council, Acts 15:19-32. We are cautioned against self-reliance in keeping ourselves from falling.
c. Paul warned the Corinthians: “Take heed lest they fall,” 1 Corinthians 10:11-13; Jude 1:24-25. But to be: “steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord,” 1 Corinthians 15:58. Lest they fall from what? Grace!
d. John warns his children: “Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward,” 2 John 1:8. This was John's warning against deceivers, who "abideth not in the doctrine of Christ," 2 John 1:7-11. To receive the "full reward," he desired that they "abide in the doctrine of Christ, to have both the Father and the Son,” 2 John 1:9.
e. Peter advised the Jewish saints: “To beware lest ye also, be led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your steadfastness,” 2 Peter 3:17-18. Now, let's look into our texts of emphasis.
C. Texts of emphasis. We will examine two texts regarding our "falling away from God's grace.” Texts of emphasis will be Galatians 5:4; and Hebrews 12:15. We have no "ax to grind," only our love in the: "Confirmation and defense of the truth of the gospel of Christ." To Philippi, Paul wrote: "Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all because I have you in my heart; since both in my bonds and the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace,” Philippians 1:7; Philippians 1:15-18. Observe,
1. First, to the Galatians, he wrote: "Christ has become no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; you are fallen from grace,” Galatians 5:4. We will look into the mind of Paul, as he warned these saints of their "falling from God's grace." I want to be clear; he did not suggest they could fall; but that "they had fallen from grace.” How does the Calvinist explain these saints’ current condition within the grace of God? Let’s look at,
a. The phrase "justified by the law," which means they must now earn their salvation through the works of the law. If this is so, their salvation was not of grace but works.
1) The Calvinists do not preach this to be so. They believe salvation is by grace, apart from any works of the law or human merit.
2) They affirm that “salvation is through faith, and not of works, lest any man should boast,” Ephesians 2:8-9.
b. The phrase "you are" means they have been removed from the grace of God. They are now in bondage to the law of Moses, Galatians 5:1. They are now under the "curse of the law" Galatians 3:10. They are again under the law of sin and death, Romans 8:1-4. It would be appropriate at this time to discuss the phrase a little more: “you are fallen from,” in Galatians 5:4.
c. The phrase “you are fallen from,” in Gr., is ekpipto or ek-pip'-to, which means to drop away; primarily, be driven out of one's course; to lose, become inefficient: —to be cast, fail, or fall (away, off), to take or become, of none effect.
d. The noun “grace” in Gr., is charis or khar'-ece, which means to be gracious, or show gratitude): —acceptable, benefit, favor, grace (- ious), joy, or liberality. In this case, divine favor.
1) They no longer are under the law of grace, the law of Christ, Galatians 6:2.
2) They are “fallen” away from the grace of God. Grace no longer has a part in their salvation.
3) Their salvation now is made possible by the law, and their keeping of every commandment and ordinance contained in it, James 2:10; Galatians 3:11-12.
4) This contradicts Paul's teaching to them and others regarding their “salvation by grace through the faith,” Ephesians 2:8-9; Galatians 3:1-5; Titus 3:4-7.
NOTE: The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament translates this text as: "You were estranged (separated) from Christ, whoever by the law are being justified, you fell from grace," Page 656. The NRSV, Galatians 5:4. Paul wrote: "You (Galatians) have already fallen from grace; if the law is now justifying whoever you are, claiming to be justified." Brother B. W. Johnson commented on this verse.
e. He wrote: "Christ has become of no effect unto you. If you are circumcised, keep the Mosaic law (verse 2). Ye are fallen from grace. By resorting to the law for salvation. We (are) Christians who trust in the gospel. Through the Spirit. Not through carnal ordinances but strengthened by the Spirit, we wait. For the fulfillment of the hope which (is) righteousness by faith instead of (what) the law ensures to us," Page 518. (Insertions are mine). These Galatians had given up liberty and grace for the bondage of the law, Galatians 5:1.
f. Matthew Henry wrote: “Now in this case…he (Paul) declares that Christ would profit them nothing, that they were debtors to do the whole law, that Christ had become of no effect to them, and that they were fallen from grace...it appears that thereby they renounced that way of justification which God had established…for they became debtors to do the whole law, which required such an obedience as they were not capable of performing…and therefore condemned, but could not justify them; and, consequently, that having thus revolted from Christ, and built their hopes upon the law, Christ would profit them nothing, nor be of any effect (unto) them," Page 961. (Insertions are mine). See Acts 13:38-39; Acts 15:10-11.
2. Second to the Hebrews, Paul wrote: “Looking diligently lest any man fails of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many are defiled,” Hebrews 12:15. He encourages the saints to be looking diligently,
a. The warning: “Lest any man may fail* of the grace of God.”
b. The sin: “Lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble them.”
c. The results: “And thereby many may become defiled.”
d. The word “defiled” in Gr., is miaino or me-ah'-ee-no, which means to be sullied or taint, i.e., contaminate (morally): —defile, pollute or stained by sin, 2 Kings 21:16; Titus 1:15; Jude 1:8. James also wrote: “That we are to keep ourself unspotted from the world,” James 1:26-27.
3. NOTE: *Fail, in the NRSV, reads “falling.” Falling away means to renounce one’s faith, to drift off course. To be removed from one’s election to the hope of “eternal life.”
4. The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament reads: “Seeing to it lest anyone falling from the grace of God, lest some root of bitterness sprouting up may trouble you and by it many (are) defiled,” Page 782. The NRSV, Hebrews 12:15. Consider these two writers in this verse. First,
a. Matthew Henry wrote: “Here you may observe, First, The nature of apostasy: it is failing of the grace of God; it is to become bankrupts in religion, for want of a good foundation, and reasonable care and diligence; it is failing of the grace of God, coming short of a principle of true grace in the soul, notwithstanding the means of grace and a profession of religion, and so coming short of the love and favor of God here and hereafter. Secondly, The consequences of apostasy: where persons fail to have the true grace of God, a root of bitterness will spring up; corruption will prevail and break forth…producing bitter fruits for themselves and others. It produces...corrupt principles, which lead to apostasy and are greatly strengthened and radiated by apostasy—damnable errors (to the corrupting of the doctrine and worship of the Christian church) and corrupt practices," Page 1378. Second,
b. B. W. Johnson wrote: "Being careful that no one lags and falls by the way not to reach the final reward. Lest any root of bitterness. Any opposition, or element of disturbance (riseth) causing (any) members to sin," Page 637. (Insertions are mine). Observe,
1) Paul uses Esau, as an example of the sin of bitterness, for all believers. His sin was that he “sold his birthright for a morsel of meat, and therefore was rejected, never inheriting the blessing,” Hebrews 12:16-17.
2) Let us all beware and be on guard; lest selling our birthright for the pleasures of sin causeth us to be rejected, thereby not inheriting the full blessing: eternal life. God forbid such to be so!
3) Moses: "When he came to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather suffering affliction with the people of God than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of reward,” Hebrews 11:24-26.
c. It’s time now to proceed to Peter’s writings on safeguarding ourselves from falling from our steadfastness in the faith. We are now ready to look into the heart of this servant of God. Observe,
D. Peter's warnings and safeguards. He grants his audience some suitable warnings and safeguards to hold fast to their profession of faith. We will now hear from one apostle who had, in fact: "failed the Lord" in His hours of trial, suffering, and death. But the Lord restored Peter to: “the work God had called him unto in the kingdom of God,” John 21:15-19; Acts 15:7-11.
1. The Lord’s rebuke of Peter, Luke 22:31-32. Peter continued to have a heart of fear way into his apostleship. However, he stood before the Jewish Council and demonstrated unwavering courage in his preaching: "in the name of Jesus," Acts 4:19-20; Acts 5:29. Peter, again demonstrates a heart of fear before the “men from James” in Antioch. He was given a stern rebuke before all.
2. Paul’s rebuke of Peter, Galatians 2:11-16. Peter failed to stand up to the brothers spreading contentions and division in the church regarding circumcision and the law. Notice,
a. Peter's fear of criticism, and the challenges by those of the “circumcision,” or the “men from James,” Acts 15:1-5. He dissimulated himself (committed hypocrisy) before the Gentiles when the men from James came to Antioch. Fortunately, Paul was in the assembly when this occurred. He witnessed Peter's hypocrisy before the church. Pretending this "separation" was always the practice of the church at Antioch during the "love feast." A failure of Leadership on his part before the saints.
NOTE: This practice of “separation, or segregation,” is still a problem in the church of the Lord today. Sadly, I confess this is a warning: "have we fallen from grace” due to our cowardness and disobedience? Can we practice such hypocrisy and think God is pleased? Where is the Leadership in our assemblies? Where is the love that “speaketh louder than our message?” Remember the beloved apostle Paul: “Let brotherly love continue,” Hebrews 13:1.
b. Paul’s rebuke saved Peter from himself and his fears of the Pharisees (who became Christians); but insisted that the Gentiles needed to: keep the law and circumcision to be saved. Peter feared their condemnation of the Gentiles, and for his fellowship (eating with them), without any segregation between them and the Jewish saints.
c. Leadership brings on circumstances that either build their faith or cause them to error unto their destruction. Peter would find his courage after Paul's open rebuke for his sin before the church at Antioch. Ministers and leaders must demonstrate Leadership during difficult times and situations in the church. They must do this as they: “watch out for your souls,” Hebrews 13:7; Hebrews 13:17; Hebrews 13:24.
d. Paul calls out Peter for his hypocrisy. Because: "He walked not uprightly according to the gospel's truth," Galatians 2:11-16. Faithful brothers and sisters must be on watch to correct the erroring saints in their walk of faith. We do this because we love each other and want every saint to so abide: “To the end He (Christ) may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints,” 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
e. Years have passed since this incident, and Peter is now a hardened veteran for the Lord. Having a background of weakness and indecisiveness, he can call upon God’s divine revelation and his failures in this matter he has now overcome. Beloved,
1) We pen these words to alert some of you (preachers and teachers) that stand before God’s people and “reason of righteousness, temperance, and the judgment to come. (Like) Felix, (many) hearing might tremble, but answer as he did: ‘Go thy way for this time; when I have a (more) convenient season, I will call for thee (I will hear from thee, O’ Lord),’” Acts 24:25. (Insertions are mine).
a) Sin causes the seekers of the faith to close their eyes and hearts unto the word of the Lord.
b) Once sin and unbelief seduce the human heart, it can cause even the believer to "fall from God’s grace and steadfastness in the faith." Take heed lest we fall!
c) Jeremiah wrote: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and (it is) desperately wicked: who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9; Jeremiah 16:12.
2) The shameful truth is that a more convenient season might not ever come. And our end for such neglect will be our ruin. Therefore: "To him, that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is a sin," James 4:17. Solomon wrote: “Open rebuke is better than secret love,” Proverbs 27:5-6; Proverbs 28:23. The minister or evangelist must also rebuke the “elder when he walks contrary to the truth of God.” Paul wrote Timothy: “Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear,” 1 Timothy 5:20; 1 Timothy 5:1. Peter called himself an elder, 1 Peter 5:1-4. I suspect he was one of the elders in the church at Jerusalem, Acts 15:6-7. Let’s consider,
3) Paul’s rebuke of Peter. It possibly saved him from eternal destruction. God’s servant must be a voice of reasoning unto the people. He cannot “go along, to get along.” Ultimately, like Cain: “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? And if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door,” Genesis 4:7.
4) Substitution and neglect are the sins of disobedience and unbelief! Hold forth the truth, and "be about your Father’s business,” Luke 2:49. Let’s now hear from God’s servant Peter,
3. He wrote: “According to His divine power (He) hath given unto us (saints) all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these you might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped to corruption that is in the world through lust,” 2 Peter 1:3-4. Observe,
a. Great and precious promises. Peter wrote of the exceeding great and precious promises. He will now tell us how to remain faithful: "to make our calling and election sure.” He penned,
b. Giving all diligence (attention). Notice: “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith:”
1) Virtue, the word in Gr., is arete or ar-et'-ay, which means manliness (valor), i.e., excellence: —praise, virtue, Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Peter 1:3; and 2 Peter 1:5.
2) Knowledge, the word in Gr., is gnosis or gno'-sis, which means, to know, or (the act), i.e., to acquire understanding: —knowledge, or science, Romans 15:14; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 3:19.
3) Temperance, the word in Gr., is egkrateia or eng-krat'-i-ah, which means self-control (especially continence): —temperance, Acts 24:25; Galatians 5:23; 2 Peter 1:6.
4) Patience, the word in Gr., is hypomone or hoop-om-on-ay', which means cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy: —enduring, patience, patient continuance (waiting), Luke 8:15; Luke 21:19; Romans 15:4-5; Colossians 1:11.
5) Godliness, the word in Gr., is eusebeia or yoo-seb'-i-ah, which means purity; especially, the gospel scheme: —godliness, holiness, 1 Timothy 2:2; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 Timothy 6:3; 2 Peter 1:3.
6) Brotherly love, the word in Gr., is Philadelphia or fil-ad-el-fee'-ah, which means fraternal affection: —brotherly love (kindness), love of the brethren, Romans 12:10, 1 Thessalonians 4:9; Hebrews 13:1; 1 Peter 1:22.
7) Charity, the word in Gr., is agape or ag-ah'-pay, which means, love, i.e., affection or benevolence; especially in a love-feast: — (feast of) charity(-ably), dear, love, John 15:13-14; Romans 5:8; Romans 12:9; 1 Corinthians 13:13; 1 Corinthians 16:14; Galatians 5:6; Ephesians 6:23; 1 John 4:17; 1 John 5:3. Observe Peter's use of the conjunction (for),
c. For if these things are in you, and abound: “They make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Peter 1:8. What things are Peter referencing in this demonstrative pronoun? "If these things are in you and abound." Observe,
1) First, he references the: "exceeding great and precious promises," 2 Peter 1:4. These are the blessing given to us from the Lord; as a result, the divine nature we now share with Him (the new man, the new creature), 1 Peter 1:22-23; Ephesians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17.
2) Second, if we have added unto our faith these “seven graces”: “we shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Peter 1:8; 2 Peter 1:6-9; 2 Peter 3:18; 1 Peter 2:1-3.
3) Third, if we "give all diligence, to make our calling and election sure," 2 Peter 1:10a-b. Once we have done all these things, the power of God that worketh in us: enables the surety of our “calling and election” through Jesus Christ our Lord, Ephesians 3:20-21; Ephesians 6:10.
4) Fourth, then if we (continue) in doing these things, “we shall never fall,” 2 Peter 1:10c. By continuing in these things, we shall never fall from the grace of God; nor depart from the faith of the gospel, Galatians 1:6-9; Galatians 5:4; Hebrews 12:15. However,
d. But he that lacketh these things: "Is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins," 2 Peter 1:9; Hebrews 1:3. What things are Peter describing? Without a doubt, the seven graces mention earlier in this text. If the graces are absent, he is blind and cannot see very far (he is short-sighted). He has forgotten Christ has forgiven him of all his past sins and transgressions.
e. Conclusion: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give the diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, you shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto us abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ," 2 Peter 1:10-11. Let's look more closely at what Peter wrote. Observe,
1) Brethren, give diligence. These are those having:
a) First, “Been called into His glory and virtue."
b) Second, "Been given exceeding great and precious promises."
c) Third, “That by these we might be partakers of the divine nature.”
d) Fourth, “Having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”
e) Summary: It was to the brethren (the saints); that these promises were being made. Those who have been partakers of the divine nature (the new man) have escaped the world's lusts and corruption. The graces to be added to their faith were to make them fruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. However, those lacking these graces: are blind, cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that they were purged from their old sins. Who are these that are blind and forgetful of God's love and kindness? Are they the "elect and chosen" of God? Listen to Peter,
2) The phrase “to make" is a verb that guarantees: “Their calling and election will be sure.” These must undoubtedly, be those the Calvinists have described as the: “called and elect of God.” This sentence contains the: "called and elect" of God, as in Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 1:4-5. Consider,
a) The word “calling” in Gr., is klesis or klay'-sis, which means an invitation: —calling, 2 Peter 1:10; Matthew 11:28-30. This calling, by the way, is given unto all, John 3:16; 1 Timothy 1:3-7; Romans 10:11-13. Unlike Calvinism, these verses ensure that all believers can be saved if they: “Obey out of the heart that form of doctrine,” Romans 6:17-18; Romans 10:16-17; 1 Peter 1:22-23; 1 Peter 3:20-22.
b) The word “election” in Gr., is ekloge or ek-log-ay', which means a (divine) selection: —chosen, or election, 2 Peter 1:10; Ephesians 1:3-14; Colossians 1:1-8; Colossians 1:23-29.
c) We are the redeemed of God. The “called and elected” ones. It does not sound like their “predestination” was as secure as the Calvinist’s claims. Some were blind, and others were fruitful. Both were admonished to "add to their faith…to make their calling and election sure." I wish I had some help right about now! Which of these are the "predestinated" that Calvin and others believe will be saved without faith and obedience?
NOTE: Predestination, what has God predestined to those he has called? Calvinism affirms it is salvation under any cause. However, the word "predestinated," as used by Paul, does not suggest this position. In the Roman letter, Paul wrote: “And we know that all things…For whom He (God) foreknew, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover, whom He did predestinate, them He also called, them He justified: and whom He justified; them He also glorified," Romans 8:28-30. Text shortened for brevity. Observe,
i. Calvinism, “Whom God called, He predestinated some to heaven, and others to hell.”
NOTE: John Calvin wrote: "By predestination, we mean the eternal decree of God, by which he determined with himself whatever he wished to happen with regard to every man. All are not created on equal terms, but some are preordained to eternal life, others to eternal damnation; and, accordingly, as each has been created for one or other of these ends, we say that he has been predestinated to life or to death.” Reference, Sovereignty of God in Christianity, by Wikipedia. I want to confess honestly that,
NOTE: I sense in this teaching (all are not created on equal terms) religious bias and racial prejudice. Some religious groups once believed and taught that people of color had no souls. They might not teach this now, but men and women professing Calvinism as their faith; behave like it is true, starting at the highest levels of government and religion. The man of God cannot align himself with those seeking to deny certain Americans their “right to vote" and “equal treatment under the law.” Are truth and justice a reality in our political systems? Is faith in God alive in Congress?
i. The Republican Party has declared war against “people of color” in America! I wonder if Mitt Romney, a Republican, considers himself an “elect of God?”
ii. His recent vote to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court cannot annul his vote against the recent: “Civil Rights’ Legislations.” The man or woman of faith stands for truth: “from the White House to the outhouse!” Where are the faithful servants in Congress? And I might ask: Why are the pulpits in America silent about the “Republicans’ political misbehavior?”
iii. I pray for this Nation. That God will permit both men and women to be elected to congressional offices that stand for truth, justice, and righteousness: with unwavering faith in God and the Nation. See the Attachment entitled: Calvinism and Congress, at the end of this lesson. For more information regarding this subject. Returning to the lesson,
d) Paul, “Whom God foreknew, He did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son,” Romans 8:29; Ephesians 1:5; John 1:11-12; Galatians 3:26-27; Galatians 4:4-7. The Holy Scriptures.
i. Paul does not mention some were predestinated to eternal life and others to eternal damnation in his Letter to the Romans.
ii. God has “predestinated” that all who are “called and elected” would be “conformed to the image of His Son.”
iii.God's predestination and His “calling and election” to Christ are totally and utterly different from that taught in Calvinism.
e) Conclusion: It sounds like Calvin had it all wrong. God's predestination was those whom: "He foreknew, He called, and He justified, and He glorified. That they should: "be conformed to the image of His Son, Christ Jesus," Romans 8:29; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 John 3:2. Let’s continue our exposition,
3) The word “sure” in Gr., is bebaios or beb'-ah-you, which means to be stable: —firm, of force, steadfast, or sure. This is the same word Paul has been using in his warning to the Hebrews. Now Peter admonishes,
4) Notice, “If you do these things, you shall never fall.” What are the things needed to be done? Let’s dig a little deeper!” Looking more intently into this sentence': phrases, verbs, pronouns, participles, and particles. Stay with me; this is going to get good!
a) The verb, a present active participle: “if you do” in Gr., is poieo or poy-eh'-o, which means to make or do (a thing): —to abide, content, continue’ to execute, exercise, or fulfill; to hold, to perform, or complete a thing, that which contains a promise.
b) The phrase, a demonstrative pronoun: “these things” in Gr., is tauta or tow'-tah, meaning the things: — afterward, or previously mentioned. In this case, adding to your faith…virtue, love, etc. (After that, you will secure yourself to the promise.) Stay with me; we are almost there!
c) The first verb: “ye shall” in Gr., is ptaio or ptah'-yo, which is connected to the verb "fall" at the end of the phrase: “ye shall fall.” The verb's definition will be discussed later in this section.
d) The disjunctive particle: “never” in Gr., is me or may, which is a primary particle of qualifying negation, i.e., not, lest, whether: —any but (that), neither, never, without, etc.
e) The second verb: “fall” in Gr., is also ptaio or ptah'-yo, which means to trip, i.e., to err, sin, fail (of salvation): —fall, offend, stumble. Therefore, the verb ptaio, combined with the disjunctive particle me, means: “ye shall fall never.” In this context: “ye shall never fall.” There is no reason to doubt that the verb “fall” here: means the same things described earlier in this lesson.
f) Conclusion: Let’s be clear: the “you shall never fall" is predicated on our: “adding to our faith…virtue, love, etc.,” as mentioned before in the two former phrases: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence: to make your calling and election sure,” 2 Peter 1:10a. If you do these things, “you make your calling and election sure,” 2 Peter 1:10b. And thereby, ensure that “you shall never fall,” 2 Peter 1:10c.
NOTE: The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament translates this verse as: “Therefore, the rather, brethren, be diligent to make your; calling and election sure, for these things [by] doing by no means will you stumble [even] once,” Page 814. The NRSV, 2 Peter 1:10.
5) Now I think we have it. If (the saints) add these graces to their faith, they shall never fall. However, if they fail to add them, they shall be in danger of falling from their steadfastness or God's grace. This doctrinal truth disagrees with the Calvinist's position: once saved, always saved. This truth exposes the man-made teaching of Calvinism. Please, remember,
NOTE: Peter was being guided by the Holy Spirit and from his experiential knowledge of this subject of: "falling from his steadfastness," 1 Peter 4:10-11; 2 Peter 1:19-21. The same cautions are given today: Add to our faith…virtue, love, etc. “To make our calling and election sure: we shall never fall if we do these things,” 2 Peter 1:10. Peter concludes,
6) For so an entrance: “Shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” 2 Peter 1:11; 2 Timothy 4:16-18. We have discussed the kingdom of God in many sermons now on SermonCentral.com. You have been a kind and considerate audience. Therefore, we will now move to the conclusion of this lesson.
4. Peter acknowledges Paul. Calling him a “beloved brother,” 2 Peter 3:15-18. Peter has been "converted and is now strengthening his brothers.” Ministers should acknowledge the word and contributions of their counterparts: it demonstrates humility and goodwill. Moving now to our final summation on this subject. Observe,
E. Final summation. What has been uncovered in Christ’s apostles’ cautions and warnings are five things that can cause the sin of falling away: "from grace, or our steadfastness." We must not be "ignorant to Satan's devices," 2 Corinthians 2:11. As I begin to close, let me illustrate each one of them from the scriptures we have already discussed. They are,
1. First, unbelief: “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God," Hebrews 3:12-14. It will be through unbelief one will depart from the faith. Unbelief will hinder the searcher of truth from accepting the scriptures contrary to their present beliefs. Disbelief in the word of God can cause one to deny and reject the truth. Remember the Lord Jesus: "He that believeth on me as the scripture hath said," John 7:38; John 5:39.
2. Second, transgression and disobedience: “For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward,” Hebrews 2:2. As these were not tolerated under the Old Covenant, so are they not overlooked under the New! But every transgression and disobedience shall be given God’s just recompense of reward. Due entirely because He is: “The Just and justifier of them that believeth in Jesus,” Romans 3:23-26.
3. Third, neglect: “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation,” Hebrews 2:3. Also, “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we should let them slip," Hebrews 2:1. Jesus said: "Take heed, therefore, how you hear," Luke 8:18.
4. Fourth, self-reliance: “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he falls," 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. Trust in God's power to help you stand, for He is faithful that promises. The saints' stand must be first with their faith and trust in God and their willing obedience to His word. There is a "power that worketh in us," Ephesians 3:20-21; Philippians 2:12-13.
5. Fifth, error of the wicked: “To beware lest ye also, be led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your steadfastness,” 2 Peter 3:17-18. Peter wrote: “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, causing the way of truth to be evil spoken of irreverently. 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,” 2 Peter 2:1-3. Consider,
a. Our salvation is in Christ. His word not only enlightens us to His way, but it "sanctifieth us through its truth,” John 17:17; 1 Corinthians 6:11.
b. David wrote: “Thou art near, O LORD, and all of thy commandments are truth,” Psalms 119:151; Psalms 119:142. He also wrote: “The word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth,” Psalms 33:4.
c. Conclusion: The real weakness and failure of anyone claiming to believe and trust in God’s word; is in their apprehension in acknowledging the scriptures when the truth does not conform to their current teachings and beliefs. They cannot submit themselves to the will of God and accept His word in all matters of faith, doctrine, and living.
NOTE: Illustrate Apollos’ Conversion to the truth of the gospel. He was willing to be instructed in “the way of God more perfectly,” Acts 18:24-28.
1) Some will now reject the truth presented in this lesson even though you are reading the scriptures yourself. Why is this so?
2) You do not reverence, trust, or have a confident belief in the word of God. You will hold to all your previous beliefs, although they are opposing and inconsistent with the Holy Scriptures.
3) This failure in your faith is the real sign of unbelief, disobedience, and rejection of the word of the Lord, John 12:48. Be an “Apollos” today! Then help others: “learn the way of God more perfectly,” Acts 18:26; Psalms 51:9-13.
4) I trust I have not: "become your enemy, because I told you the truth," Galatians 4:16. We can: "do nothing against the truth, but for the truth," 2 Corinthians 13:8.
6. Conclusion: The scriptures have validated that some saints in the first Century lost their way in the faith. Some saints were indeed lost, but others recovered. Remember, we were to allow the Holy Scriptures to answer whether or not the Calvinist’s view of “predestination, and the once saved, always saved” doctrine: was the teaching of the New Testament. The scriptures have concluded: that the saints or children of God: “Can fall from God’s grace, be removed from the gospel, and depart from the faith." I trust you have been listening to the word of God. It will ultimately have the final word in judgment (when the books are opened). I pray this lesson has helped those seeking to know the "way of God more perfectly?" As I begin to close this lesson series, let me quickly remind you: the listeners….
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Once Saved, Always Saved?
B. Summarize main points.
1. In this lesson today, we discussed the theme: “Once Saved, Always Saved?" This is the thirteenth lesson in this sermon- series entitled: "Re-digging in Old Wells." There will be many others bearing this title. We are re-digging in old wells to obtain Isaiah's promise: "With joy, you will draw water from the wells of salvation," Isaiah 12:3. There are times we must re-dig in old wells to obtain the joy found in the: "waters of salvation." This sermon type is called: "textual preaching." In these lessons, our goal will be: "to dig a little deeper" in the text of emphasis. We will allow the writer, the characters in the verses, and the Master's words to shed new meaning to His words of eternal life, John 6:63; John 10:10.
2. We considered this question is it actual: " Once saved, always saved?" By this, we meant: Can a person be saved and always saved, regardless of what kind of life they lead after being saved by the grace of God? Is there such a thing as: "Once saved, always saved?" We re-dug in old wells to find a biblical answer. Ulysses Shields called this kind of teaching: "digging a little deeper" in the word of truth. He was my grandfather in Christ. We used as a foundational text for this sermon series: "And Isaac re-dug the wells of water, which they had dug in the days of Abraham...for the Philistines had stopped them (closed them up) after Abraham's death," Genesis 26:18. The Philistines: "Stopped them, and filled them with earth," because they envied Isaac's possessions, Genesis 26:14-15.
3. Our text of emphasis read like this: "Christ has become no effect unto you, whosoever are justified by the law; you are fallen from grace,” Galatians 5:4. This theme may have troubled the readers and hearers of this lesson. Still, Calvinist preachers and teachers advocate: "The elect of God has been predestined to salvation, regardless of their lives after their call of faith into God’s grace." The saints can "fall from grace, and their steadfastness in the faith." we conducted a thorough investigation of this teaching in the lesson. However, it was essential to consider every text within the context of the scriptures. With God’s help, we did draw: “New water from old wells.” I trust that this lesson was informative and instructive to your understanding of this essential truth. If you have any questions on anything I presented, please feel free to contact me and suggest how I might be better informed on this subject.
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14.
D. Exhortation. Let is not be said of you: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself from this untoward (wicked and ungodly) generation,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
Credits and Contributions
I give credit to my contributors; I, therefore: "Render to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due)," Romans 13:7. I thank and acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
8. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
9. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
10. Calvinism, “Predestination in Calvinism.”– Wikipedia.
11. Calvinism, “Sovereignty of God in Christianity.”– Wikipedia
ATTACHMENT
CALVINISM AND THE CONGRESS
1. John Calvin and his theory on “predestination.” In the Institutes, Calvin wrote: “By predestination, we mean the eternal decree of God, by which he determined with himself whatever he wished to happen with regard to every man. All are not created on equal terms, but some are preordained to eternal life, others to eternal damnation; and, accordingly, as each has been created for one or other of these ends, we say that he has been predestinated to life or to death,” The Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book Third, Chap. 22. Sec. 5. See also, Sovereignty of God in Christianity, by Wikipedia. Beloved, I am merely quoting from Calvin’s writing. These are not my words! Notice,
2. Calvin’s teaching is objectional. I sense that this teaching contains both religious bias and racial prejudice (all are not created on equal terms). Some religious groups once believed and taught "that people of color had no souls." They might not teach this now, but men and women professing Calvinism as their faith; behave like it is true, starting at the highest levels of government, business, and religious faith.
3. The man of God cannot align himself with those seeking to deny certain Americans their “right to vote" and "equal treatment under the law." Are truth and justice a reality in our political systems? Is faith in God alive in Congress? Congress begins its day with prayer: invoking God's guidance in their political affairs. Somehow, they end the day voting against the mandatory legislation that could end hopelessness and despair in the Nation. Why? It seems that,
a. The Republican Party has declared war against “people of color” in America! I wonder if Mitt Romney, a Republican, considers himself an “elect of God?” And maybe even others in this party?
b. His recent vote with two other Republicans to confirm Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court cannot annul their vote against the recent: “Civil Rights’ Legislations.” The man or woman of faith stands for truth: “from the White House to the outhouse!” Where are the faithful servants in Congress? And I might ask: Why are the pulpits in America so silent about the “Republicans’ political misbehavior?”
c. I pray for this Nation. That God will permit both men and women to be elected to congressional offices that stand for truth, justice, and righteousness: with unwavering faith in God and the Nation. Men and women of America, if you desire to save democracy, voting rights, women's right to choose, and other needed legislation that will help the Nation. Your alternative is to vote in every local, state, and federal election until after the 24 Elections: for Democrats, up and down your ballot. Do not believe one of their promises to work for you if elected!
d. The Republican party has had 10+ years in Congress to help this Nation. They have failed to produce one piece of legislation that helps the working people of America. Instead, they have made the Nation's billionaires and millionaires richer while impoverishing the working people and poor in this country. Let's give the democrats full charge of the House and Senate to complete President Joe Biden's Agenda for America. We cannot afford to waiver on this effort! The people of America must require our legislators to govern responsibly and with integrity. God bless America!
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org
https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
Contact me at: wwmcoc@earthlink.net
refreeman@earthlink.net
