Once Saved Always Saved According to the Bible

The doctrine of “Once Saved Always Saved” (OSAS), also referred to as Eternal Security, is one of the most debated topics in Christian theology. At its core, OSAS asserts that once an individual is saved through faith in Jesus Christ, their salvation is secure for eternity and cannot be lost. However, not all Christians agree with this interpretation, as there are numerous scriptures that call for perseverance, obedience, and righteous living.

This post will explore the biblical foundation of OSAS, examine counter-arguments, and address the role of free will in salvation. By the end, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the scriptures related to this doctrine and be encouraged to seek the truth through study and prayer.

Bible Verses That Indicate Eternal Security

Eternal Security in John 10 and Romans 8

One of the strongest arguments for OSAS comes from Jesus’ words in John 10:28, where He states, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” This verse highlights the assurance that Jesus offers to His followers, emphasizing the permanence of salvation.

Similarly, Romans 8:38-39 provides further assurance, as Paul writes, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” These passages communicate God’s unshakable love and power to protect those who are saved.

Contextual Analysis of Eternal Security Verses

While these verses offer the promise of eternal life, they must be interpreted in their full biblical context. John 10 is directed at those who are Jesus’ sheep, who hear His voice and follow Him. This raises the question of whether continuing in obedience is required for one to remain among His flock.

Scriptural Warnings About Perseverance and Obedience

Paul’s Call to Work Out Your Salvation

The apostle Paul presents a compelling counterpoint in Philippians 2:12, where he commands believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” This statement conveys a sense of active participation in one’s salvation and reflects the importance of reverence and responsibility.

The Unrighteous Will Not Inherit

Paul details sins that prevent people from inheriting the kingdom of God in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and Galatians 5:19-21, emphasizing the need for true repentance and righteous living. Furthermore, Matthew 24:13 reiterates the significance of endurance, stating, “But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”

Running The Race

The apostle Paul echoed Jesus’ teachings on obedience and endurance, illustrating the necessity of persevering in one’s faith till the end. In 1 Corinthians 9:24, Paul compares the Christian life to running a race, encouraging believers to run in such a way as to win the prize. Additionally, Paul warns against disobedience and falling away in Hebrews 3:12-14, urging believers to hold onto their confidence in Christ until the end.

Commanded Obedience Is The Common Thread In Paul’s Teachings:

Paul’s teachings illustrate a recurring theme of submission and obedience, highlighting their importance in maintaining a proper relationship with God and others. This principle is woven throughout his messages, urging believers to embrace submission, obedience, and follow God’s guidance to remain in right standing spiritually and morally.

Paul Taught: Children Are To Obey Their Parents:

• Ephesians 6:1
• Ephesians 6:3
• Colossians 3:20

Paul Taught: Wives Are To Obey Their Husbands: 

• Ephesians 5:22-24
• Colossians 3:18
• Titus 2:5

Paul Taught: Husbands Are To Love Their Wives:

• Ephesians 5:25
• Ephesians 5:28
• Colossians 3:19

Paul Taught: Slaves Are To Obey Their Masters:

• 1 Timothy 6:1
• Ephesians 6:5
• Titus 2:9

Paul Taught: We Are To Obey Our Government and Leaders:

• Romans 13:1
• Romans 13:2-7
• Titus 3:1
• Hebrews 13:7, Hebrews 13:17

James on Faith and Works

The apostle James adds another layer to the discussion in James 2:24, where he writes, “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” This verse highlights James’ focus on the relationship between faith and actions, realizing that genuine faith is not merely a passive belief but should actively manifest in good works.

James challenges the idea that salvation is secure regardless of one’s actions, arguing instead that true faith is evidenced by a life of obedience, service, and moral commitment. In this way, James underlines the importance of living out one’s faith through tangible deeds that reflect inner transformation.

Peter on Falling Away

Peter issues a strong warning about falling away from the faith in 2 Peter 2:20-22, clarifying the grave consequences for those who turn back to sin after coming to know Christ. He explains that if someone escapes the corruption of the world through the knowledge of Jesus but then becomes entangled in sin again, their condition is worse than it was before they knew the truth.

Peter even uses vivid imagery, comparing such individuals to a dog returning to its vomit or a washed pig returning to the mud. This sobering passage highlights the serious danger of persistent disobedience and raises significant theological questions about whether salvation can be forfeited through a life of willful sin and rebellion. It serves as a call to vigilance in faith and a reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast in our walk with Christ.

The Message of Hebrews 6

The author of Hebrews contributes significantly to this theological discussion with a particularly thought-provoking passage in Hebrews 6:4-6. It states, “For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit… and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance.”

This challenging verse has sparked much debate over its implications for the OSAS (Once Saved, Always Saved) doctrine. By suggesting that falling away is not only possible but carries serious consequences, the passage warns believers about the dangers of turning away from God after experiencing His grace. It raises profound questions about the permanence of salvation and the responsibility of remaining faithful, urging careful reflection on what it truly means to live in alignment with God’s will.

Jesus’ Teachings on Obedience and Endurance

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of obedience in Matthew 19:17, where He said, “If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” This instruction reflects a core principle of His teachings, which consistently stressed the need for living out one’s faith through active obedience to God.

Throughout His ministry, Jesus underscored that faith is not merely about words or beliefs but must be demonstrated through actions. In Matthew 7:21-23, He made it clear that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father.

Jesus highlighted the necessity of perseverance, encouraging believers to endure trials and remain steadfast to the end. Furthermore, Jesus warned about the dangers of falling away from faith and losing spiritual grounding. In Luke 8:13, Jesus orated the parable of the sower to describe the seed that falls on rocky ground, symbolizing those who receive the word with joy but fail to develop deep roots. When trials or temptations come, their faith withers and dies. These teachings remind us of the critical need for a faith that is both resilient and rooted in consistent obedience to God.

The Book Of Revelation On Perseverance, Overcoming, and Faithfulness

In Revelation 3:5, the letter to the church in Sardis suggests that the permanence of salvation may depend on continued faithfulness: “He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.”

This tell us that perseverance and overcoming are crucial for maintaining one’s status in the Book of Life. Furthermore, Revelation 2:10 commands believers to remain faithful even unto death, promising the crown of life to those who do. These passages highlight the importance of endurance and suggest that salvation is not merely a one-time event but a continuous journey of faith and obedience.

Countering Once Saved Always Saved (OSAS)

Verses Suggesting Conditional Salvation

Several passages, like those mentioned above, suggest that salvation is contingent on continuing in faith, obedience, and repentance. Christians are called to “abide in Christ” (John 15:4-7), with a warning that those who do not remain in Him are like branches thrown into the fire.

Those Who Fell From Grace

The Bible provides examples of individuals who turned away from faith:

King Saul, once a beloved leader and Israel’s first chosen king, saw his reign crumble as disobedience and pride led him away from God’s favor, paving the way for his ultimate downfall.

Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, is infamous for turning his back on his faith. His betrayal of Jesus not only changed the course of history but also sealed his tragic downfall.

Demas, once a fellow worker with Paul in ministry, abandoned his faith and calling because he “loved the present world.” His story highlights the commitment to remaining steadfast and faithful in one’s spiritual journey.

Those who follow Jesus: In John 6:66, When Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood, his words shook his followers to their core. Jesus’ message was bold, unsettling, and difficult to commit to. Many of Jesus’ followers could not fully accept it, and instead of remaining faithful and steadfast, Jesus’ followers chose to walk away, turning their backs on him and his teachings.

Faith that crumbles: In 1 Timothy 1:9, Paul speaks of those who “make shipwreck of their faith,” painting a vivid picture of individuals who once professed belief but have drifted off course, losing their commitment and falling away.

Falling away by false teachings. The New Testament offers a powerful warning about those who turn away from the faith, cautioning us to be vigilant against false teachers (2 Peter 2:1-2). These individuals can mislead others by spreading heretical beliefs, threatening to pull them away from the truth. Stay grounded and discerning to protect your faith.

The Faithless: John speaks of those who “went out from us” (1 John 2:19), highlighting an astounding truth: many profess faith but lack true commitment. These individuals become faithless, appearing to belong but eventually fall away, abandoning their faith and falling away from grace. It’s a powerful reminder to reflect on the depth and authenticity of our own faith, examining our commitment.

The Danger of Blaspheming the Holy Spirit

Jesus warns about an unforgivable sin in Mark 3:29, stating that “whoever blasphemes against the God’s Spirit never has forgiveness but is guilty of an eternal sin.” This warning underscores the seriousness of sin and its potential consequences for salvation.

The Role of Free Will in Salvation

God’s Sovereignty and Mankind’s Choice

One of the most significant theological tensions in the OSAS debate is the balance between God’s sovereignty and mankind’s free will. While God’s power is absolute, He has also granted mankind the ability to choose whether to follow Him. This tension plays a crucial role in understanding how salvation is maintained.

Maintaining Salvation through Free Will

The concept of free will implies that believers can choose to continue in faith or turn away. While God provides the grace to persevere, mankind bear the responsibility to walk in obedience and surrender.

Practical Implications of the OSAS Doctrine

Personal Responsibility and Discipleship

Believing in OSAS can offer comfort, but it also carries the risk of fostering complacency. If one assumes their salvation is secure regardless of their actions, they might neglect personal discipleship and obedience. However, adhering to a balanced view of salvation encourages Christians to grow in faith, abide in Christ, and live righteously.

Encouraging Accountability and Growth

A proper understanding of salvation motivates believers to take their relationship with God seriously. Whether one leans toward OSAS or conditional salvation, the Bible consistently calls for faithfulness, obedience, and endurance.

Encouragement to Seek Truth

The debate over “Once Saved Always Saved” reveals the complexity and depth of scripture. While some verses appear to affirm eternal security, others warn of the consequences of falling away. Rather than relying on a single perspective, it is essential to study the Word of God and seek His guidance through prayer and discernment.

Ultimately, the question of OSAS is not merely theological but deeply personal. It calls each believer to reflect on their walk with God and live with a heart of humility, obedience, and surrender.

May every believer strive to remain faithful, leaning on God’s grace and seeking to endure to the end.

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Enjoy The Journey In Your Short Stay Here

We must cherish and use our God-given time wisely by seeking the Father’s guidance in all choices while following His Word for direction during both favorable and difficult periods and trusting His promises with courage until our journey ends. Our daily life should radiate purpose and gratitude while we remain committed to fulfilling His will through our heart’s desires.

Hopeful Thoughts

According to Jesus, salvation is based on faith, which should produce faithfulness, enduring till the end. Our salvation is a new birth (born-again), complete regeneration met with repentance (turning from any sins), always seeking and doing the will of God the Father and obeying the Father’s commands.

Faith is not just believing, set it and forget it type of approach. Living faith, truly believing, is choosing to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, repenting of all sin is to turn away from all sin, to actively choose to live according to Jesus’ teachings. Faith is trust in God Almighty’s plan and belief in the promise of eternal life by entering the narrow gate, and faithfully continuing till the end.

If you are looking to go deeper in your faith, meditate on these truths and how they effect your relationship with God. Read and ponder over scripture that highlights these elements of salvation, and ask God for the spirit of wisdom and revelation as you walk in your spirituality. Just remember that faith is something that grows over the course of a lifetime, and God is always there to lead you through the way.

Before you leave, take a moment to reflect on the attributes of God’s love outlined below.

Attributes of God’s Love To All

• Unconditional in its offering: God’s love is available to all who wholeheartedly seek Him, and continue in obedience.
• Redemptive: God’s love has the power to cleanse sin and make you whole.
• Active: God’s love leads to life, demonstrated through the new life resurrection of Jesus Christ, as seen in John 3:16.
• Transformative: God’s love shapes believers into His ways, calling them toward perfection (Matthew 5:48).
• Remain in God’s Love: We must love God to remain in His love (Jude 1:21, John 15:9-10, I John 3:24, John 14:15, John 15:5-6)

Also, while you’re at it, take a moment to reflect on what it truly means to be set free from sin.

Truly Set Free From Sin

We can master sin according to God. Mastering sin is introduced in Genesis 4:7, where God speaks to Cain, saying, “If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” If we have been born again unto righteousness, then we are able to exercise self-control, resist sin as Jesus commanded, and willfully obey God’s commands, effectively mastering sin.

Furthermore, Jesus’ directive to “go and sin no more,” as recorded in John 8:11, offers valuable instruction. This statement clarifies that it is possible to obey God and overcome sin. Accomplishing this requires genuine repentance, relying on God’s power, not our own power, and commiting our wholehearts to do the will of God Almighty.

By nurturing a relationship with God, faithfully seeking guidance through prayer, and allowing God’s Spirit to transform our hearts, believers can live without succumbing to the constant temptation of sin that waits for everyone.

You’ve made it this far, why not take a moment to explore what Jesus says about being saved? It could change everything.

How To Be Saved According To Jesus

What Must I Do To Be Saved?

“Sirs, what ​must​ I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30) That question, that has echoed in the hearts of men down through the ages, since the Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas. It touches that universal wish in all of us to understand the meaning of our lives and to have hope for the future.

The response given by Paul and Silas is not complicated; they simply say, “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house” (Acts 16:31). So, what does it actually mean to believe in or to “believe on”? Check out this amazing article on How To Be Saved According To Jesus

We’re Here to Support You On Your Journey To Life!

We commit our lives to God the Father and His Son – the Lord Jesus Christ! We are in the business of spreading the good news, to inspire hope, share the message of deliverance, and ultimately plant the seed of saving faith.

Our desire is to extend and share with others the love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness of God, which are available to all through faith in Him. Our goal is to encourage others to hold on to this message, enjoy the peace that comes from His promises, and find the pathway to life as we learn the Father’s ways and live by them.

If you need prayer, encouragement, or assistance of any kind, please contact us. It would be our pleasure to help and bless you in any way we can!

Let us close in prayer:

After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13)