Chapter 8: Can a Believer Fall Away? Security and Perseverance
This is a question on which sincere, Bible-believing churches hold different convictions. It is honest to set both out.
The case for eternal security (commonly held by Evangelical Baptists): Christ promises, “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand” (John 10:28). Paul is persuaded that nothing “shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39). Those whom God justifies he also glorifies (Romans 8:30).
The case for conditional security (commonly held by Assemblies of God and many Pentecostals): Scripture also warns believers to continue. “If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel” (Colossians 1:23). “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God” (Hebrews 3:12). See also Hebrews 6:4-6; 2 Peter 2:20-21; and John 15:1-6.
What both sides agree on. Salvation is entirely God’s work from start to finish (Ephesians 2:8-9). God keeps those who trust him (1 Peter 1:5; Jude 24). No believer should use grace as a licence to sin (Romans 6:1-2). And a life that has truly been changed will keep following Christ (John 10:27).
Where the traditions stand. Evangelical Baptists generally teach the perseverance of the saints. The Assemblies of God teaches that a believer is secure in Christ while abiding in him, and that he may turn from the faith by a deliberate departure. Foursquare and other Spirit-filled churches vary. The chief lesson is simple: trust the Saviour, and “give diligence to make your calling and election sure” (2 Peter 1:10).
Carry this verse: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).