The following four are needed, and none of the four can be missing.
(1) Knowledge
(2) Belief
(3) Repentance
(4) Obedience
To become a well-grounded Christian, one must
(1) obtain a real, broad knowledge of Bible truth (1 Timothy 2:3-4),
(2) put faith in the things we have learned (Hebrews 11:6),
(3) repent of your sins (Acts 17:30-31), and
(4) turn around in your course of life. (Acts 3:19);
(5) Then our love for God should move us to dedicate ourselves to Christ. (Matt. 16:24; 22:37)
(6) Finally, baptism (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 1:9-10; Acts 8:36)
If one is missing the knowledge department, he cannot believe in something he has no real in-depth knowledge of.
The New Testament does reveal that salvation involves not just an instantaneous event but also a process that includes essential steps, such as gaining knowledge, belief, repentance, and obedience. Let's clarify this using Scripture to demonstrate a biblically accurate understanding of how salvation unfolds.
Salvation begins with knowledge—a clear understanding of who God is and His plan for salvation through Christ. As Romans 10:14-15 points out, no one can believe in Christ without hearing about Him first, and that hearing requires preaching and teaching. 1 Timothy 2:3-4 affirms that "God desires all men to be saved and to come to an accurate knowledge of truth." This knowledge forms the foundation of faith because, without it, there can be no genuine belief. Romans 10:17 states, "So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ." Therefore, gaining accurate knowledge of God's Word is indispensable to initiating the journey toward salvation.
Following knowledge, belief is essential. Hebrews 11:6 clearly teaches, "Without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him." Belief, however, is not mere intellectual assent; it must be accompanied by a life that reflects this faith. True belief in God’s promises and Jesus Christ's atonement leads to repentance, as Acts 17:30-31 commands all people to repent. Repentance is not simply sorrow for sin but a complete turning away from sinful behavior and turning toward God (Acts 3:19). This repentance is the evidence of a transformed life—a turning point that marks a change in direction.
The final step involves obedience, which includes baptism, an outward expression of dedication to Jehovah and Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself commanded His followers to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19-20). Baptism is an important step of obedience that symbolizes the believer's identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). It also reflects one's dedication to living in obedience to God’s commands. While salvation is a gift of grace, it requires active faith demonstrated through obedience. James 2:26 confirms that "faith without works is dead," highlighting the necessity of obedience as a manifestation of genuine faith.
Thus, salvation is not merely a one-time event but an ongoing process involving knowledge, faith, repentance, and obedience, with each step being crucial for receiving the free gift of salvation and maintaining a relationship with God.
1. Getting on the Path of Salvation: Embracing Christ through Faith and Obedience
Understanding the steps of salvation is essential, but how does one practically begin the journey toward salvation? Jesus Christ offers an invitation to all who seek eternal life, but entering this path requires a sincere response to God’s grace and an obedient heart. The Bible consistently teaches that salvation is a free gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9), yet it must be received on His terms. This involves an active decision to respond to the call of Christ by following the steps outlined in Scripture.
A. Acknowledge Your Need for Salvation
Before one can enter the path of salvation, it is vital to recognize the need for a Savior. Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Every person, regardless of background, has sinned and is separated from God. Romans 6:23 goes further by explaining the consequence: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Admitting this reality prepares the heart to accept the salvation offered through Christ alone. This step is not merely intellectual; it must also be heartfelt, acknowledging personal guilt and the need for redemption.
B. Respond to God’s Call through Faith
Once you recognize your need for salvation, the next step is to respond in faith. Faith is not a passive feeling but a deep trust in the promises of God and the work of Jesus Christ. Romans 10:9-10 teaches, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” This faith must be genuine, a firm conviction that transforms your heart and mind, leading you to follow Christ.
C. Confess and Repent of Your Sins
As mentioned earlier, repentance is an indispensable step in receiving salvation. It means not only feeling sorrow over past sins but also making a deliberate decision to turn away from them. Acts 3:19 states, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” True repentance signifies a complete change in direction, forsaking sin and committing your life to live according to God’s will. It is the evidence of genuine faith, showing that you are serious about walking with God.
D. Obey through Baptism and Dedication
Jesus calls all believers to demonstrate their faith through obedience. This includes the act of baptism, which symbolizes your identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). Baptism is an outward expression of the inner transformation that has taken place, a public declaration of your dedication to follow Christ. It is also an act of obedience to Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19-20. Dedication to God’s will is not limited to a one-time event but is a daily commitment to live according to His Word.
2. Remaining Faithful on the Path of Salvation: Sustaining Your Walk with Christ
Once a person has entered the path of salvation, remaining faithful is crucial. Salvation is not a static event but a dynamic relationship with God that requires continual growth and commitment. Jesus warned in Matthew 24:13, "But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved." This endurance is not achieved by our own strength but by relying on the grace of God and the power of His Spirit.
A. Strengthen Your Faith through Prayer and Bible Study
A deep relationship with God is cultivated through regular prayer and meditation on His Word. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages believers to "pray continually." Prayer keeps you connected with JHVH, allowing you to express your dependence on Him and seek His guidance. Additionally, regular Bible study is essential to sustain your faith. As Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Studying the Scriptures not only increases your knowledge of God but also equips you to resist temptation and live a life that pleases Him.
B. Fellowship with Other Believers
The Christian life was never meant to be lived in isolation. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together." Fellowship with other believers strengthens your faith by providing accountability, encouragement, and shared worship. Being part of a local church or Christian community allows you to grow spiritually and remain steadfast in your walk with Christ.
C. Obey God in Daily Living
Obedience to God is not only necessary to begin the path of salvation but also to stay on it. James 1:22 reminds us, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." Genuine faith is proven through obedience to God's commandments in every area of life. This means aligning your thoughts, actions, and desires with the teachings of Scripture, even when it’s difficult. Obedience is an ongoing demonstration of your love for God, as Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commands."
D. Persevere through Trials and Temptations
Remaining on the path of salvation requires perseverance, especially in the face of trials and temptations. Jesus warned His disciples in John 16:33, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Trials test your faith and refine your character, producing spiritual endurance (James 1:2-4). While temptations may come, 1 Corinthians 10:13 assures us that God will provide a way out so that we can endure it. By relying on God’s strength and the support of the Christian community, you can overcome these challenges and remain faithful.
E. Trust in God’s Grace for Ongoing Forgiveness
Even as believers strive to live obediently, we will stumble and sin along the way. However, God’s grace is available to restore us when we repent. 1 John 1:9 promises, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." Staying on the path of salvation doesn’t mean being sinless but being quick to repent and seek forgiveness when we fall short. This continual repentance is a mark of a humble heart that seeks to remain close to God.
By taking these steps—first to get on the path of salvation and then to remain on it—you can experience the fullness of life that Jesus Christ offers. Salvation is a gift from God, but it requires our faithful response and perseverance until the end. May this guide help you in your journey toward eternal life, walking closely with Christ every day.
About the Author
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
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