Cautions in our Interpretation of Salvation
Chris Hefner
We must avoid the danger of treating conversion as a formula or a work.
We must avoid the tendency to define salvation by only one or the other of its aspects.
We must avoid the possibility of seeing salvation only through the eyes of an insider.
Doctrinal Principle: A proper and biblical view of conversion (the moment of salvation in the life of a sinner) is the healthiest way to help sinners become followers and believers become disciples
Justification is the aspect of salvation where we are declared righteous by God.—Romans 3:20-26
Sanctification is the aspect of salvation where we are set apart for God and are being made holy by God.—Is. 6:8; Rev. 4:8; 1 Peter 1:16.
Two aspects of sanctification: positional and progressive—1 Cor. 6:11; Gal. 5:16-24
Glorification is that aspect of salvation where God makes us like himself.—Rom. 8:30; 1 John 3:2
Theological Takeaway: Because salvation is multifaceted, we must explore the various lenses, angles, and pictures of salvation in the Bible to better grasp what God has done for us in Christ
Relational Takeaway: Because salvation is an invitation to relationship, being saved means knowing God
Worship Takeaway: Because salvation is detailed in the storyline of Scripture and accomplished by the Trinity, salvation invites us to worship the God who saves.
Evangelistic Takeaway: Because salvation is God’s gift and invitation for all who would repent and believe, we must tell what we know and have experienced to those who don’t and haven’t
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