According to a December 2008 poll by the Pew Forum, 52% of Americans who call 
themselves Christians believe that at least some non-Christian faiths can lead to eternal life. Did you catch that? Let me say it a different way: A majority of American “Christians” believes that you can make it to heaven without Jesus. Does that shock and sadden you? If not, it should. (Read the full Pew Forum report here.)
Do you know what God teaches about salvation? About how you can know Him? Do you know why you believe what you believe? The poll I mentioned above clearly shows that many Christians do not. Our culture – and sadly even our churches – has watered down God’s Truth to make it politically correct and socially acceptable. In fact, one of the most well-known preachers in the southern US says he does not use the word “sin” in his church because it makes people feel bad.
Believers, we must know the Truth so we can stand firm in it. We must ground ourselves in God’s Word so we will not be swayed by the winds of society. And we must “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). Their eternal future depends on it.
The Scripture Dig team has dedicated the month of September to “Salvation.” Many of you may have known these truths your entire lives. But come dig deeper into those truths with us. Here are a few of the topics we will cover:
- What is sin? And what is the result?
- What is God’s heart for sinners?
- What does not save you?
- Is Jesus the only way?
- Why the cross?
- Why the cross is not enough? (Or, The Power of the Resurrection)
We will also share our testimony stories with you and give you a chance to share yours with us. I am so excited to talk about the Gospel here on Scripture Dig. What could be more important?
To get our theme started, let’s talk a bit today about misconceptions. What are some things many people believe about salvation that do not line up with what Scripture says?
Couple of quick resources:
“What Christians believe” – brief overview of basic, core beliefs of Christianity. Includes Scripture references for the nature of God, the Bible, Jesus, salvation, and eternity.
“How to know Jesus” – if you have never entered into a personal, saving relationship with Jesus you can do that right now!
It does sadden me that so many “Christians” miss the entire point of Christianity – CHRIST! I have a feeling there are a lot of “lost Christians” out there, simply because they tune out the message thinking they’re all set. It’s not about a religion – it’s all about a relationship! I’m so glad you all are tackling this critical issue!!
Oh, this is going to be such a wonderful month at Scripture Dig! Can’t wait to see the comments and future posts on Salvation.
Growing up in a Sabbatarian environment there were many who believed that besides accepting Jesus as savior you HAD to do other things or you would not obtain your salvation (Grace +). Examples: Keeping the laws of clean and unclean. Keeping the Sabbath, etc. Those things aren’t bad to do, they just aren’t a matter of salvation. I..can’t obtain my salvation, only Jesus can do that, all I can do is choose to accept it.
Keep up the good work Ladies, you are greatly appreciated!
~Blessings~
Marita
Love this topic & love the way you started us off, Kathy! What could be more important. Eternity weighs in the balance of what we believe about this very subject!
Can’t wait to dig in and I’m praying for those who know Chirst to solidify their faith and those who don’t to experience true salvation during this month. For His glory – for His honor!
I’m really excited about this topic, and you’ve helped lay a great foundation for why it makes such a difference. What we believe about salvation is really what motivates us to dig into the Word. Thanks for leading us off, Kathy!
This is going to be a great month of encouragement and insight! Thanks, Kathy, for getting us off to such an incredible start. Great foundation … can’t wait to dig in deep!
“I have a feeling there are a lot of “lost Christians” out there, simply because they tune out the message thinking they’re all set. It’s not about a religion – it’s all about a relationship!” I couldn’t have said it better myself, Ashley!
GREAT subject this month!
I pray that our posts and our comments this month will point all of us to Christ and glorify Him!
Love this, Kathy – and so excited to challenge and sharpen one another to KNOW what we believe. Thank you for your passion for the Gospel – may He be lifted high this month as we dig into the Word and praise Him for His wonderful gift of salvation!
Really looking forward to the posts and discussions! Praying it will produce fruit in many lives.