Sermon: October 26, 2008

Perseverance of the Saints

Luke 22:54~62(John 21:15~18)

1. Meaning of perseverance

• not that salvation is certain if we have once believed
• but that perseverance in holiness is certain if we have truly believed

2. Chief misunderstanding: A tendency to relax watchful effort to grow in grace because true Christians will not fall away totally, is an evidence that we are not in a gracious state

3. Certainty of success

• not that persistent effort on our part is not necessary
• but that in this effort we are certain of success

4. Ground of perseverance

• God's decree of election
• The intercessory work of Christ
• The constant indwelling of the Holy Spirit

Discussion

• Are you sure of your salvation? What makes you think that way?
• Can a person believe in Christ and eventually deny Him later? Then, how should we take his first confession of faith?
• Is salvation dependent upon whether you persevere in this world? How does the lesson on perseverance give us comport and assurance?