“(God) who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (II Timothy 1:9, 10).
What does it mean to be “saved?” There are numerous Bible references that address this question. So let me boil things down to help us understand this most critical issue of all:
- In the first place, only people who are lost need to be saved. The Bible makes it rather clear that all human beings, beginning with Adam and Eve, were and are lost – – that is, they are estranged from God and, having rejected His Word, are under His wrath.
- Second, Jesus Christ, the God-Man, took our punishment upon Himself. He was the only perfect sacrifice who fulfilled God’s righteous demands.
- Third, only those who place their faith in Jesus Christ alone have everlasting life residing in them immediately. They are spared from an eternal Hell and will spend eternity in the presence of the Savior.
- Fourth, the only requirement is repentance of one’s sins and faith in Christ.
Anything other than that, such as good deeds, religiosity, ritual, etc. is abominable to God. It’s not what we do for God or ourselves, it’s what God has done for us through Christ, His beloved Son! He suffered, died and arose the third day from the grave, and ever lives to make intercession for us.
Here’s the catch: you only have this life to place your faith in Christ. Once this life is over, your destiny is sealed! Heaven or Hell – – which will it be? Tomorrow may be too late. The most tragic words ever recorded: “TOO LATE!”
If you are unsure if you are saved, click the image below. Do not wait another moment!
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