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Eternal Security
Introduction
Apostasy
Conditional Promises
No Turning Back
Examples of Apostasy
Eternal Life
Sealed by the Spirit
Apostasy in Hebrews
Apostasy in 2 Peter
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Eternal Security?
Introduction
Copyright Tim Warner - 03/2003
Many Christians today insist that once you are truly born again, you can never be lost, no matter what. There are three
common terms used to describe this view. Probably the best known is "OSAS" ("once saved always saved"). Another
term is "eternal security." But, the term best liked by Calvinists is "perseverance of the saints."
Few Evangelical and Fundamental Christians realize that OSAS is the minority view in Christianity today. It is held
almost exclusively by Presbyterians, Baptists, and some non-denominational groups with roots in one of these two
denominations. OSAS is rejected by the majority of Christians. But, what may come as a bigger shock is that OSAS is a
new doctrine unheard of prior to John Calvin. For the first 1500 years of Christianity, Christians believed it was possible
for true believers to fall away and be lost forever if they did not persevere in their faith unto the end. In the words of
John Wesley: "whatever is true is not new; whatever is new is not true."
The Orthodox View from the Early Church to Luther
The earliest Christians taught that perseverance was not guarenteed, and that many true Christians would not finish the
race, and would be lost. Intense persecution in the early Church brought this issue to the fore. Some were faithful even
to martyrdom, and others forsook the Faith when faced with death or torture. The following quote from Irenaeus (early
2nd cent.) illustrates the early Christian view immediately following the time of the Apostles.
"And to as many as continue in their love towards God, does He grant communion with Him. But communion with God is
life and light, and the enjoyment of all the benefits which He has in store. But on as many as, according to their own
choice, depart from God. He inflicts that separation from Himself which they have chosen of their own accord. But
separation from God is death, and separation from light is darkness; and separation from God consists in the loss of all
the benefits which He has in store. Those, therefore, who cast away by apostasy these forementioned things, being in
fact destitute of all good, do experience every kind of punishment. God, however, does not punish them immediately of
Himself, but that punishment falls upon them because they are destitute of all that is good. Now, good things are eternal
and without end with God, and therefore the loss of these is also eternal and never-ending. It is in this matter just as
occurs in the case of a flood of light: those who have blinded themselves, or have been blinded by others, are for ever
deprived of the enjoyment of light. It is not, [however], that the light has inflicted upon them the penalty of blindness,
but it is that the blindness itself has brought calamity upon them: and therefore the Lord declared, He that believeth in
Me is not condemned, that is, is not separated from God, for he is united to God through faith. On the other hand, He
says, He that believeth not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of
God; that is, he separated himself from God of his own accord. For this is the condemnation, that light is come into
this world, and men have loved darkness rather than light. For every one who doeth evil hateth the light, and cometh
not to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be
made manifest, that he has wrought them in God." (Irenaeus, Against Heresies, Book V, XXVII, 2)
While predestination was taught beginning with St. Augustine in the 5th century, even Augustine believed that
perseverance was not guarenteed to all believers. He taught that one could not know for sure whether he had the "gift
of perseverance" until his death. Augustine taught that true Christians should pray continually that God would grant
them the grace to persevere unto the end, and that some true Christians would NOT persevere and would be lost. Here
are two excerpts from St. Augustine's treatise "On the Gift of Perseverance."
"I have now to consider the subject of perseverance with greater care; for in the former book also I said some things on
this subject when I was discussing the beginning of faith. I assert, therefore, that the perseverance by which we
persevere in Christ even to the end is the gift of God; and I call that the end by which is finished that life wherein alone
there is peril of falling. Therefore it is uncertain whether any one has received this gift so long as he is still alive. For if
he fall before he dies, he is, of course, said not to have persevered; and most truly is it said. How, then, should he be
said to have received or to have had perseverance who has not persevered? For if any one have continence, and fall
away from that virtue and become incontinent, - or, in like manner, if he have righteousness, if patience, if even faith,
and fall away, he is rightly said to have had these virtues and to have them no longer; for he was continent, or he was
righteous, or he was patient, or he was believing, as long as he was so; but when he ceased to be so, he no longer is
what he was. But how should he who Has not persevered have ever been persevering, since it is only by persevering
that any one shows himself persevering, - and this he has not done? But lest any one should object to this, and say, If
from the time at which any one became a believer he has lived - for the sake of argument - ten years, and in the midst
of them has fallen from the faith, has he not persevered for five years? I am not contending about words. If it be
thought that this also should be called perseverance, as it were for so long as it lasts, assuredly he is not to be said to
have had in any degree that perseverance of which we are now discoursing, by which one perseveres in Christ even to
the end. And the believer of one year, or of a period as much shorter as may be conceived of, if he has lived faithfully
until he died, has rather had this perseverance than the believer of many years standing, if a little time before his death
he has fallen away from the steadfastness of his faith."
"But, on the other hand, of his own will a man forsakes God, so as to be deservedly forsaken by God. Who would deny
this? But it is for that reason we ask not to be led into temptation, so that this may not happen. And if we are heard,
certainly it does not happen, because God does not allow it to happen. For nothing comes to pass except what either He
Himself does, or Himself allows to be done. Therefore He is powerful both to turn wills from evil to good, and to convert
those that are inclined to fall, or to direct them into a way pleasing to Himself. For to Him it is not said in vain, O God,
Thou shalt turn again and quicken us; it is not vainly said, Give not my foot to be moved; it is not vainly said, Give
me not over, O Lord, from my desire to the sinner; finally, not to mention many passages, since probably more may
occur to you, it is not vainly said, Lead us not into temptation. For whoever is not led into temptation, certainly is not
Used with permission of owner, Tim Warner--blessings of our Lord to you Pastor Tim! May 24, 2013
led into the temptation of his own evil will; and he who is not led into the temptation of his own evil will, is absolutely
led into no temptation. For every one is tempted, as it is written, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and
enticed; but God tempteth no man, - that is to say, with a hurtful temptation. For temptation is moreover beneficial
by which we are not deceived or overwhelmed, but proved, according to that which is said, Prove me, O Lord, and try
me. Therefore, with that hurtful temptation which the apostle signifies when he says, Lost by some means the tempter
have tempted you, and our labor be in vain, God tempteth no man, as I have said, - that is, He brings or leads no
one into temptation. For to be tempted and not to be led into temptation is not evil, - nay, it is even good; for this it is
to be proved. When, therefore, we say to God, Lead us not into temptation, what do we say but, Permit us not to be
led? Whence some pray in this manner, and it is read in many codices, and the most blessed Cyprian thus uses it: Do
not suffer us to be led into temptation. In the Greek gospel, however, I have never found it otherwise than, Lead us
not into temptation. We live, therefore, more securely if we give up the whole to God, and do not entrust ourselves
partly to Him and partly to ourselves, as that venerable martyr saw. For when he would expound the same clause of the
prayer, he says among other things, But when we ask that we may not come into temptation, we are reminded of our
infirmity and weakness while we thus ask, lest any should insolently vaunt himself, - lest any should proudly and
arrogantly assume anything to himself, - lest any should take to himself the glory either of confession or suffering as his
own; since the Lord Himself, teaching humility, said, Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation; the Spirit
indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. So that when a humble and submissive confession comes first and all is
attributed to God, whatever is sought for suppliantly, with the fear of God, may be granted by His own loving-
kindness." (Augustine, On the Gift of Perseverance, Ch. I, XII)
In essence, Augustine taught that true Christians ought to pray always for the grace to persevere, and that only when
he finished his life, having been faithful unto death, could it be known that he would persevere. Perseverance was
something entirely separate from true regeneration by the Spirit. Even truely born-again Christians might not persevere,
and could be lost, in Augustine's theology. Consequently, not all born-again Christians will ultimately make up the
"elect." That true Christians could fall away and be eternally lost was the universal view of Christian writers prior to
Calvin.
Even Martin Luther, who is claimed by Calvinists as one of their own, acknowledged the possibility of a Christian falling
away into unbelief. Here are a few quotes, beginning with Luther's comment on the statement of the Lord's prayer, "lead
us not into temptation."
"We have now heard enough what toil and labor is required to retain all that for which we pray, and to persevere
therein, which, however, is not achieved without infirmities and stumbling. Besides, although we have received
forgiveness and a good conscience and are entirely acquitted, yet is our life of such a nature that one stands to-day and
to-morrow falls. Therefore, even though we be godly now and stand before God with a good conscience, we must pray
again that He would not suffer us to relapse and yield to trials and temptations. ... Then comes the devil, inciting and
provoking in all directions, but especially agitating matters that concern the conscience and spiritual affairs, namely, to
induce us to despise and disregard both the Word and works of God to tear us away from faith, hope, and love and
bring us into misbelief, false security, and obduracy, or, on the other hand, to despair, denial of God, blasphemy,
and innumerable other shocking things. These are indeed snares and nets, yea, real fiery darts which are shot most
venomously into the heart, not by flesh and blood, but by the devil. Great and grievous, indeed, are these dangers and
temptations which every Christian must bear, even though each one were alone by himself, so that every hour that we
are in this vile life where we are attacked on all sides, chased and hunted down, we are moved to cry out and to pray
that God would not suffer us to become weary and faint and to relapse into sin, shame, and unbelief. For otherwise it is
impossible to overcome even the least temptation. This, then, is leading us not into temptation, to wit, when He gives us
power and strength to resist, the temptation, however, not being taken away or removed. For while we live in the flesh
and have the devil about us, no one can escape temptation and allurements; and it cannot be otherwise than that we
must endure trials, yea, be engulfed in them; but we pray for this, that we may not fall and be drowned in
them." (Martin Luther, Large Catechism XII, On the Lord's Prayer, 6th Petition).
"Through baptism these people threw out unbelief, had their unclean way of life washed away, and entered into a pure
life of faith and love. Now they fall away into unbelief" (Martin Luther, Commentary on 2 Peter 2:22).
"Verse 4, "Ye are fallen from grace." That means you are no longer in the kingdom or condition of grace. When a person
on board ship falls into the sea and is drowned it makes no difference from which end or side of the ship he falls into the
water. Those who fall from grace perish no matter how they go about it. ... The words, "Ye are fallen from grace," must
not be taken lightly. They are important. To fall from grace means to lose the atonement, the forgiveness of sins, the
righteousness, liberty, and life which Jesus has merited for us by His death and resurrection. To lose the grace of God
means to gain the wrath and judgment of God, death, the bondage of the devil, and everlasting condemnation." (Martin
Luther, Commentary on Galatians, 5:4).
Calvinism
After the Reformation, John Calvin further developed Augustine's theology of predestination, and added "perseverance
of the saints" as one of his five pillars of "Calvinism." In Calvinism, all those who are drawn of the Spirit will be saved,
and will persevere unto the end. Man simply has no choice in the matter. In Calvinist thinking, God determines who will
be saved and who will be lost. Ultimately, man's choice or "free will" is just an illusion. He really has no independant
choice in the matter at all. If God elects certain people to be saved, and pre-determines their eternal destiny, the
thought of someone "falling away" from the faith is preposterous. They simply have no choice in the matter.
Baptists & Eternal Security
Baptists and some non-denominational churches, who are not Calvinistic in general, hold to the fifth point of Calvinism,
which they call "eternal security." In essence, they teach that man has a "free will" UNTIL he accepts Christ and
becomes a Christian. From that point on he has no choice in the matter.
The Roman Catholic Church strongly opposes OSAS, both the Calvinistic form and the Baptist form. In fact, the RCC
teaches that you are not fully "saved" until you get to heaven. They believe that salvation is a lifelong process, and that
in this life, Christians can never really be sure they are saved. Integral in this line of thinking, is that one must perform
good works and lead a holy life to help ensure their salvation. Also, certain sins are said to be serious enough to forfeit
one's salvation.
Because of the apparent connection between "works" and maintaining one's salvation in RCC thinking, Baptists and
Calvinists have assumed that anyone who believes a Christian can depart from God and be lost is teaching a works-
based salvation message. However, this assumption is wrong as we shall see in the following articles.
The Biblical View
Let me say at the outset, that I believe the RCC doctrine of salvation by faith plus works is a false gospel that cannot
save anyone. I am convinced the Scriptures teach salvation is by God's grace, not by our own merits. It is a free gift
offered to all who believe. Salvation is gained by faith alone, and works have no part whatever in our being saved, or in
maintaining our salvation.
Now, some might assume this means one can never depart from God. But this is not true. Many passages indicate true
Christians can be lost. How? Through UNBELIEF. One must believe the gospel in order to be saved, and one must
continue to believe the gospel to continue "in Christ." It is as simple as that. Works don't play any part in initial
"believing," nor do they play a part in your continued "believing." It is initially by faith, and it continues to be by faith
throughout the Christian life.
All of this is taught explicitly in Scripture. In the following series of articles, we will display the evidence for you to
judge. OSAS may have some Scriptures that seem to support it. But, there are many Scriptures for which it simply
cannot account. Likewise, the RCC might have a couple of verses from James that seem to support their teaching, but
there are several Scriptures that flatly contradict their teaching regarding salvation. The truth can be found only by
harmonising all of the Scriptures on this topic. The view presented in these articles fully preserves the idea of salvation
by grace through faith, not by works. It also integrates the many warnings in Scripture against departing from God.
Salvation by grace through faith alone is at the heart of the Gospel message. While eternal life is a free gift of God's
grace, it is applied to the individual by faith. Man cannot in any way save himself, but he can access the grace of God by
simply choosing to accept the offer of salvation through the blood of Christ, when he is drawn by the Holy Spirit. It is
through the exercise of the will that he responds to God by faith. Faith is simply believing what God has said, and
resting in that promise. A person who is saved by God's grace through exercising faith continues to believe
the Gospel throughout his Christian life. It takes no effort on our part to believe. We simply respond and surrender
to the drawing of the Spirit. In fact, true faith is resting in God's promise, not clinging to it by works of our own merit. It
is obvious then, that continuing to maintain one's faith throughout life requires no effort, but a continued
resting in the finished work of Christ. Make no mistake. The warnings in God's Word are real. For example, in John
15:1-7, Jesus repeatedly warned the disciples to continue "in Christ." For those who do not heed the warnings, the
result is to be "burned." Many other passages include similar warnings. The early Church held this view. "For when the
soul that is united with Christ forsakes its faith, it is given over to perpetual death, viz., eternal
punishment." (Hippolytus, On Daniel, vi). We come to God by faith, but it is through unbelief that one departs from
God. By maintaining faith we persevere to the end. But, through unbelief we can depart from God and be eternally
damned. Jesus taught that in the last days many would abandon the faith. Paul called this the "falling away." We need
to be aware of the Scriptural teaching regarding our security in Christ, because the danger of apostasy is real.
Matt 24:9-13
9 "Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations on account of My name.
10 "And at that time many will fall away and will deliver up one another and hate one another.
11 "And many false prophets will arise, and will mislead many.
12 "And because lawlessness is increased, most people's love (agape) will grow cold.
13 "But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved.
(NASB)
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PFRS Home > Doctrinal Studies > Eternal Security >
Eternal Security?
Apostasy
Copyright Tim Warner - 03/2003
Is apostasy possible? This is an important question. According to Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, "Apostasy" is
defined as "the determined willful rejection of Christ and His teachings by a Christian Believer [Heb. 10:26-29; John
15:22]. This is different from false belief, or error, which is the result of ignorance." The nature of apostasy requires
that one be a believer first, then turn away from God. In one verse King David summed up the entire teaching of God's
Word regarding the possibility of apostasy. Just before his death, as he passed the kingdom of Israel on to his son,
Solomon, he warned:
1 Chron. 28:9
9 And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing
mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he
will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.
(KJV)
The "forsaking" David spoke of was a willful and complete turning away from God. No doubt, he was alluding to the
former king, Saul, who forsook God, and God turned away from him. He was not speaking of committing some
particular sin. David himself was guilty of adultery and murder. His sin caused him to despair. But, he confessed his sin
and threw himself on the mercy of God.
Some may say that this verse does not apply to us because it is found in the Old Testament. But, the New Testament
teaches exactly the same thing regarding apostasy. The Scriptures warn that in the last days apostasy will be rampant.
1 Tim 4:1
1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing
spirits, and doctrines of devils;
(KJV)
II Th 2:1-3
1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that
the day of Christ is at hand.
3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first,
and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
(KJV)
The Apostle warns that apostasy will be so prevalent in the last generation, he calls it the "falling away." Paul did not
originate this idea. Jesus mentioned it in His Olivet Discourse.
Matt 24:9-13
9 "Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations on account of My name.
10 "And at that time many will fall away and will deliver up one another and hate one another.
11 "And many false prophets will arise, and will mislead many.
12 "And because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold.
13 "But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved.
(NASB)
In the last days, when real persecution comes, many believers will grow cold and abandon the Faith. Only those who
continue until the end will be saved.
The parable of the sower demonstrates clearly that not all who receive the Gospel will persevere in their faith until the
end.
Mark 4:14-20
14 The sower soweth the word.
15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately,
and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.
16 And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately
receive it with gladness;
17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for
the word's sake, immediately they are offended.
18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,
19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word,
and it becometh unfruitful.
20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit,
some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
(KJV)
Notice the same language is used of those who fell away when persecution came, and those who bore fruit. Both
"recieved" the Word. Those who had stony ground became "offended." This is the same word Jesus used in Matthew
24:10 regarding those who will grow cold and betray one another when persecution comes.
Luke's account is even more clear regarding believers who do not endure when persecution comes.
Luke 8:13
13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a
while believe, and in time of temptation fall away...
15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and
bring forth fruit with patience.
(KJV)
Notice the contrast between those in verses 13 and 15. Those who will fall away when persecution comes "received" the
Gospel. It even says they "believed" for a time. But, the difference between them and the ones in verse 15 is
endurance. The word "keep" is the Greek word "katecw" [katecho]. According to Strong's Greek dictionary this word
means: "...to hold fast,...to retain,...to seize on." This word has the idea of grasping and continuing to hold on tightly,
[see: Heb. 10:23]. Those who grasp and hold onto the Gospel through faith bring forth fruit with "patience." This is the
Greek word "upomonh" [hupomone], which means: "endurance,...constancy,...patient continuance." It is evident that
those who will eventually fall away already had a serious problem before they believed the Gospel. The soil of their
heart was rocky. This type of soil makes growing crops difficult, but not impossible. Those with rocky soil need much
more care and cultivation if they are to survive and bear fruit. Rocks can be removed, and tender care given to these
struggling plants by caring gardeners. We cannot tell the condition of someone's heart. "...man looketh on the outward
appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart" [1 Samuel 16:7]. But, we can guard against unbelief in our own lives
and try to strengthen our brethren. Someone you know, who appears to be a strong Christian, could be on the verge of
abandoning their faith in God. When real persecution comes, and it will, the condition of the root will be what matters,
not the pretty leaves.
Jesus even warned His own disciples to "continue in me." His warning was not just idle words, or a hypothetical
situation. Jesus told them the final outcome of those who were "in Christ," but chose not to continue "in Christ." The
word "abide" in the following verses means: "to continue or remain in a given state or relation."
John 15:1-7
1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it
may bring forth more fruit.
3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
4 Abide [continue] in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide [continue] in the
vine; no more can ye, except ye abide [continue] in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth
[continues] in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6 If a man abide [remains] not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them,
and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
7 If ye abide [continue] in me, and my words abide [continue] in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done
unto you.
(KJV)
The words "in me" demonstrate clearly that Jesus spoke of saved people. Since Jesus warned His own disciples to
continue "in me," how much more should we be aware of the potential of any Christian to fall away?
Peter came dangerously close to abandoning Christ. On the very same night that Jesus spoke this warning to His
disciples, Jesus turned to Peter and said:
Luke 22:31-32
31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
(KJV)
Peter was in danger of his faith failing during Jesus' arrest and trial. He denied that he knew Jesus three times. This was
his time of sifting by Satan. Yet, thanks to Jesus prayer for his strength, Peter did not totally abandon Christ. If Peter
was in such danger, how much more can we be in dire danger given the right circumstances.
Rom 11:17-22
17 And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with
them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;
18 Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.
19 Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. 20 Well; because of unbelief they
were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.
22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou
continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
(KJV)
Paul was borrowing a parable from Jeremiah 11. In this parable God likened Israel to a good olive tree that He had
planted. Because of their unbelief and rebellion, God said He would break off it's branches and burn them with fire. Paul
used this illustration to show how unbelieving Jews, who rejected Jesus when He came, had been broken off from the
people of God. Believing Gentiles were then grafted in their place, among the believing Jews, as the true people of God.
However, Paul sternly warned the Roman Christians not to become to haughty or too secure in their new relationship
with Christ and the people of faith. He warned that they too can be broken off if they succumb to unbelief. Notice
that they "stand by faith." This means they are continuing in their relationship in Christ through continued faith. If they
allow that faith to degrade into unbelief, Paul warns that God will not spare them either. If God didn't spare His chosen
people when they fell into apostasy through unbelief, He will certainly not spare Gentiles who follow the same path.
Even Paul knew he was vulnerable to the lusts of the flesh, which can ultimately lead to unbelief.
1 Cor 9:27
27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I
myself should be a castaway.
(KJV)
Paul is saying he must keep his flesh in subjection so it does not cause him to loose faith and abandon Christ. The Greek
word for "castaway" is usually translated "reprobate" in the KJV. It is found in Romans 1:28, 2 Cor. 13:5,6,7, 2 Tim.
3:8, Titus 1:16, and Heb. 6:8. In the last passage it is translated "rejected." In every single case this word is used of
the lost. If Paul was aware of the ever present peril of ultimately being lost through unbelief, we too need to be on
guard.
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Doctrinal Studies

Eternal Security
Introduction
Apostasy
Conditional Promises
No Turning Back
Examples of Apostasy
Eternal Life
Sealed by the Spirit
Apostasy in Hebrews
Apostasy in 2 Peter
PFRS Home > Doctrinal Studies > Eternal Security > Introduction
Eternal Security?
Conditional Promises
Copyright Tim Warner - 03/2003
There are several passages in the Bible that warn of the consequences if we depart from God. Some of these warnings
come in the form of conditional assurances. They say that Christians will ultimately be partakers in our inheritance
"IF" we continue or persevere in faith until the end.
Rom 11:20-22
20 Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.
22 Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, IF
thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
(KJV)
That little word "if" shows that the "goodness" that God extends toward believers is conditional upon their "continuing"
in His goodness. If not, they will be cut off in the same manner as the natural seed of Abraham. Notice in verse 20 that
our perseverance is tied to "faith." What was it that caused God to cut off the Jews who rejected Christ? Verse 20 says
that it was because of unbelief. And, Paul makes the point that we stand by faith. So, in verse 22, "continuing in His
goodness" is synonymous with persevering in faith, and not succumbing to unbelief.
1 Cor 15:1-2
1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received,
and wherein ye stand;
2 By which also ye are saved, IF ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in
vain.
(KJV)
Here Paul says that the Corinthians "received" the gospel, and were "standing" by the gospel. Yet, their salvation is
clearly linked to perseverance. There is that pesky little "if" again. What does it mean to "keep in memory" the gospel?
The Gospel is all about coming to God by faith. It is clear that the ones Paul refers to were saved. Notice that he is not
warning them of their need to be saved, but of their need to persevere. It is not that they need something more than
they have. It is that they need to remain and continue in what they already have. Otherwise, their "believing" [faith] will
have been in vain. The only way their believing can be in vain, after once having been saved, is if they are lost.
Col 1:21-23
21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
23 IF ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel,
which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a
minister;
(KJV)
We are reconciled to God through Christ's death so that we will be presented sinless. But, again, that little word "if"
messes up the verse! There is a condition attached. In order for the above to be true, we must "continue in the faith,"
and not be "moved away from the hope of the gospel." Can you see a pattern developing here? The Gospel, and faith,
are linked to much more than just an initial salvation experience, where we received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Faith in
the sacrificial atonement is our means of "standing" or "continuing." And, this is a requirement if we ultimately expect to
be presented before the Father with our sins forgiven, and covered by the blood of the Lamb.
Heb 3:12-14
12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
14 For we are made partakers of Christ, IF we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
(KJV)
Notice that these verses are addressed to the "brethren." And, notice that he is warning about "departing from God."
One must be with God in order to depart from God. This is exactly what apostasy is. Yet, notice that there is one way
Christians can depart from God. UNBELIEF! This is the opposite of "faith." But, this passage reveals much more. It
clearly tells us HOW this can happen to a believer. Verse 13 warns of a "hardening" that can occur through the
deceitfulness of sin. Hardening is a process, it does not occur overnight. Unchecked sin causes hardening of the heart. A
hard heart leads to UNBELIEF. And, unbelief leads to departing from God. Then comes the final conditional assurance.
We will be made partakers with Christ IF we hold our initial confidence [or faith] until the end.
Sin can be very attractive. Satan dresses up sin and uses it as bait to seduce those who had once escaped its power.
That's why Paul told us to put on the whole armor of God so we will not be caught in the "wiles of the Devil," [Eph.
6:11]. The word "wiles" means trickery. Satan entices Christians to fall into sin. If they become entangled in that sin
and allow it to go on, over time they will build up a resistance to the convicting voice of the Spirit. This is the hardening
of the heart that leads to unbelief, and departing from God. It is not the sin itself that causes someone to fall away, but
the unbelief that results from the hardening process. That's why we find repeated warnings in Hebrews to maintain the
faith we had at first. And, that requires treating sin as a possibly fatal disease.
Heb 2:1-3
1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let
them slip.
2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence
of reward;
3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and
was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;
(KJV)
"Neglect" is treating something that is precious, casually. It is carelessness. Unfortunately, this is the state of many
Christians today. Yet, they think they are in no danger.
Some might ask, Is it really important that we believe Christians can forsake God and be eternally lost? Isn't it enough
to realize that if we sin we are displeasing God? Apparently it is not enough for some. Or else God would not have
wasted His breath on all these warnings. The Bible teaches that in the last days apostasy will be rampant. Church- going
Christians today are far too confident and oblivious to the danger lurking just over the horizon. Many have fallen into
Satan's traps and vices and cannot get free. They don't realize where this path leads, because they have been taught
"once saved always saved." Things are going to get really bad. Persecution is coming. Soon we will have to choose
between buying and selling to feed our children, or taking the mark of the Beast. Some of us will face a choice between
denying Christ or martyrdom. Do you think the average Christian will stand like the martyrs of old? Many Christians will
depart from the faith in the last days. Satan is busy on several fronts setting Christians up for the kill. He is seducing
many into sinful habits, while lulling them into a false sense of security. Finally, he will complete his attack on the
Church of God through severe persecution and deception, soon to be unleashed.
1 Pet 5:8-9
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may
devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the
world.
(KJV)
This warning is not to the unsaved. It was written by Peter to the elders of the churches. It is the job of the leaders of
the Church to be watchmen for Christ's flock. But, alas, many are more interested in building their own kingdoms.
Jer 10:21
21 For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their
flocks shall be scattered.
(KJV)
Ezek 34:2
2 Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto
the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?...
5 And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when
they were scattered.
(KJV)
Pastors, elders, it is your responsibility to guard the sheep from the roaring lion. How? Warn them. Preach against sin.
And, tell them the truth about where continued rebellion leads. For those entangled in sin already, follow James' advice.
James 5:19-20
19 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;
20 Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death,
and shall hide a multitude of sins.
(KJV)
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Eternal Security?
No Turning Back
Copyright Tim Warner - 03/2003
The title of this article comes from the song, "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus." This song speaks of the lifelong
commitment to follow Jesus that salvation requires. The words "no turning back" refer to the believer's resolve to
persevere until the end. However, I have used these words to describe what the Bible teaches about Christians who
forsake God. The Scriptures are quite clear. Once a believer abandons his faith, there can be no turning back, no chance
for repentance.
Heb 6:4-8
4 For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have
been made partakers of the Holy Spirit,
5 and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,
6 and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to
themselves the Son of God, and put Him to open shame.
7 For ground that drinks the rain which often falls upon it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is
also tilled, receives a blessing from God;
8 but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned.
(NASB)
This passage has been bent and twisted in every direction in order to avoid the obvious. But, I think it is crystal clear the
writer went to great lengths to show he is speaking of a genuine born-again Christian. But, the important point is that
once a believer "falls away" it is impossible to be restored through repentance. Notice, it does NOT say it is impossible to
fall away, but to be restored again after falling away.
Despite the list of qualifications in verses 4 & 5, some still claim that these people were never really born-again.
However, the writer used the words "renew" and "again." Both of these words mean something done a second time. It
is saying that they cannot be restored to their former state. This makes no sense if the writer was speaking of an
unbeliever. Who would want to be restored to a former state of unbelief? To be "renewed again to repentance" means to
be restored again to the condition of "being enlightened, tasting again the heavenly gift, made partaker again of the
Holy Spirit, tasting again the good Word, and the powers of the coming age." It is to be restored again to a condition
before having "fallen away."
The other angle, is to claim that this statement is hypothetical, but impossible. Yet, the word "impossible" does NOT
refer to "falling away," but to being restored again, after falling away. If he was speaking hypothetically, then what is
the purpose of the illustration that follows?
7 For ground that drinks the rain which often falls upon it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is
also tilled, receives a blessing from God;
8 but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned.
Is it only hypothetical [but impossible] that some soil does not produce fruit? Is it only hypothetical [but impossible] that
such ends up being burned? The illustration indicates that he was speaking of a real danger to these Christians.
2 Tim 2:12-13
12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
(KJV)
Many of the early Christians were faced with the choice of denying Christ, or being persecuted or martyred. Soon
Christians we know will be faced with the same dreadful choice. Either deny Christ by taking the Mark of the Beast, or
suffer for Him. If we deny Him, He will deny us. Verse 13 tells us why. If a Christian no longer believes the gospel and
denies Christ, AND, God is always faithful, we are faced with the ultimate paradox. God would be denying Himself if the
Holy Spirit remained in an unbeliever. God has no choice but to deny the apostate. Notice here that the catalyst that
drives this paradox is a Christian's abandonment of his faith. Again, this is the consistent teaching of the Word of God.
Heb 12:15-17
15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and
thereby many be defiled;
16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place
of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
(KJV)
Here apostasy is compared to Esau's situation. Salvation is compared to a birthright. The point is that once "sold," it can
never be recovered. It is impossible.
When the writer mentioned the "root of bitterness" he was recalling the covenant the children of Israel made with the
Lord just before Moses' death. God delivered Israel out of Egypt and gave them His Law through Moses. The Israelites
made a vow to the Lord to obey His Law, and keep His covenant.
Deut 29:10-20
10 Ye stand this day all of you before the LORD your God; your captains of your tribes, your elders, and your officers,
with all the men of Israel,
11 Your little ones, your wives, and thy stranger that is in thy camp, from the hewer of thy wood unto the drawer of thy
water:
12 That thou shouldest enter into covenant with the LORD thy God, and into his oath, which the LORD thy God maketh
with thee this day:
13 That he may establish thee to day for a people unto himself, and that he may be unto thee a God, as he hath
said unto thee, and as he hath sworn unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.
14 Neither with you only do I make this covenant and this oath;
15 But with him that standeth here with us this day before the LORD our God, and also with him that is not here with us
this day:
16 (For ye know how we have dwelt in the land of Egypt; and how we came through the nations which ye passed by;
17 And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them:)
18 Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turneth away this day from
the LORD our God, to go and serve the gods of these nations; lest there should be among you A ROOT THAT
BEARETH GALL AND WORMWOOD;
19 And it come to pass, when he heareth the words of this curse, that he bless himself in his heart, saying, I shall have
peace, though I walk in the imagination of mine heart, to add drunkenness to thirst:
20 The LORD will not spare him, but then the anger of the LORD and his jealousy shall smoke against that
man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall lie upon him, and the LORD shall blot out his name
from under heaven.
(KJV)
There is no question in my mind that the writer of Hebrews is referring to this passage when he wrote about the "root of
bitterness." And what is this "root of bitterness" in the above passage? It is the willful turning away from God. What is
the consequence? Look at verse 20 above.
Some might object to this teaching as using fear tactics when we warn Christians that they may depart from God
permanently if they continue in their sin for the long haul. Some people respond to the love of God, while others are
motivated by fear. If it takes fear to turn a wandering brother or sister around, then so be it.
Jude 1:21-23
21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
22 And of some have compassion, making a difference:
23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
(KJV)
In Hebrews 3 we saw the process which leads to apostasy. However, there is one passage that speaks of the final
condition of someone who has completely departed from God through unbelief.
Heb 10:23
23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)...
26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more
sacrifice for sins,
27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
28 He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of
God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath
done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The
Lord shall judge his people.
31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
(KJV)
The wilful sin mentioned in verse 26 is not just any sin. Rather, it is a particular sin; it is the act of unbelief when one
completely departs from God. This is in contrast to verse 23, where we are commanded to "hold fast the profession of
our faith without wavering." The writer described the apostate's complete and utter denial of Christ, forsaking the blood
covenant, and intentionally blaspheming the Spirit. According to verse 26, there remains no chance of repentance once
someone has blasphemed the Spirit that indwelt him. "There remaineth no more sacrifice for sin." In other words,
Christ's blood no longer covers him.
Was the person mentioned above really saved? Verse 29 says that he was sanctified by the blood of the covenant.
This is pretty strong language that can only describe a genuine Christian. Yet, his end will be with the unbelievers,
enduring the fiery wrath of God.
It is clear from this passage that a Christian cannot "lose" his salvation. "Losing" implies something involuntary, or
accidental. Departing from God is a deliberate act made when someone's heart has been so hardened by continued sin,
he no longer believes the gospel
The idea that a saved person can forsake God and be lost is repulsive to many Christians. But, the thought that such a
person is eternally damned without any possibility of repentance strikes fear into the heart of believers. And it should.
Because, it was intended to do just that. But, properly understood, it should not cause Christians to worry that they
might have at some point lived in sin and forsaken God without realizing it. One who has departed from God through
unbelief will no longer have any desire to restore his fellowship with God. He is a reprobate. The longing Christians have
to fellowship with God, and the guilt we feel when we sin, are the direct results of the Spirit's working in our lives. God is
longsuffering. He knows we are weak and frequently fail Him. But, the blood of Jesus Christ continues to cleanse us from
all sin. Our continued faith in the gospel is still counted for righteousness. An apostate, who has totally forsaken God,
will have no desire to fellowship with God. He might have remorse, and he certainly will live in fear. But, he will know in
his heart of hearts that he can never turn to God. Look at Judas. He committed suicide. Why? There was no hope for
restoration.
If you have a loved one or friend that claims to be a Christian, yet is living in continual sin, don't give up hope. But, you
need to warn them where this path can ultimately lead.
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Eternal Security?
Examples of Apostasy
Copyright Tim Warner - 03/2003
Some Christians deal with the passages concerning falling away by claiming they are hypothetical. "IF" a person could
depart from God, he could not return. But, it makes no sense for God to constantly warn us against apostasy if it were
not possible. These are not idle threats. The Word of God gives us examples of real people who departed from God
through unbelief.
1 Tim 1:19-20
19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
(KJV)
Paul warned Timothy to guard his faith. He stated clearly that some had abandoned their faith and shipwrecked. Then
he named two acquaintances, Hymenaeus and Alexander, who became apostates by blaspheming the Holy Spirit. In
Second Timothy, written soon after, we find Hymenaeus is up to mischief.
2 Tim 2:16-18
16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of
some.
(KJV)
Apparently, Hymenaeus was not content to make shipwreck of his own faith. Now, we find him teaching false doctrine
[eschatology] and thereby overthrowing the faith of others. It was common in the early Church for people to abandon
the Apostle's doctrine in order to get their own following. Paul warned the Ephesian Elders of this very thing.
Acts 20:28-30
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,
to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
(KJV)
Paul knew, both by revelation and experience that people like Hymenaeus would abandon Christ because of a lust for
fame and power. Incidentally, did you notice what Hymenaeus was teaching? He was teaching false doctrine concerning
eschatology. He taught that the resurrection was already past. False doctrine can lead people away from Christ and
damage their faith. Others leave because they get their eyes off Christ and His Kingdom and on the sin of materialism.
2 Tim 4:10
10 For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; ...
(KJV)
Paul warned Timothy extensively about the lure of materialism. Apparently, many believers had quit and become
entangled in the lust for money.
1 Tim 6:10
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and
pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
(KJV)
This brings to mind the parable of the Sower. Remember, some fell among "thorns." Jesus said the "thorns" were the
cares of this world and the love of money, which after the seed has sprouted, and begun to grow, they choke the Word,
and the plant dies.
These examples of Christians who's faith failed because of a love of money or power demonstrate that the warnings in
Scripture about falling away are real.
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Eternal Security?
Eternal Life
Copyright Tim Warner - Revised 04/2004
Much of the debate concerning "once saved always saved" (hereafter - OSAS) concerns the nature of "Eternal Life."
Those who teach OSAS always seem to fall back on this term used in John's Gospel. Several passages say virtually the
same thing. Therefore, examination of one is sufficient for understanding all of them. The highlighted words below are
the verbs we will be discussing in detail.
John 3:16
16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish
but have everlasting life.
(NKJV)
The verbs in this statement are very critical to properly understanding what Jesus meant. We therefore need to examine
the precise meanings implied by the various inflections.
"Believes"
The words, "whoever believes," are translated from "to o tiotcuev," a present active participle with the definite
article, plus the word "all" (to), literally, "every one who is continually believing." It is a verb that functions as a noun,
the subject of the clause. Because it is a participle rather than a true noun, it carries the characteristics of its verb base,
including tense, and voice. In this case, the tense is "present," and the voice is "active."
Present tense: In Greek, the present tense emphasizes the kind of action, which is continuous. Daniel B. Wallace
translates the present participle in John 3:16 as "everyone who continually believes."
1
Had Jesus meant to indicate a
once - for - all kind of "believing," we would expect Him to use either the aorist or perfect participle. In this case,
continuous belief is the emphasis. Hence, as Wallace indicates, "everyone who continually believes," best reflects the
meaning.
Active Voice: The active voice indicates that the person described is performing the action of the verb. He is actively
believing, not passive. Hence, we could include this in our English translation, "Everyone who himself continually
believes."
"Should not perish"
This phrase is actually two words in Greek, a verb and a negative particle. The negative particle simply turns the verb
into a negative. Hence the English translation, "not." The verb here is otoqtoi aorist middle subjunctive.
Aorist Tense: The aorist tense indicates the kind of action, not the time of action. The kind of action implied by the
aorist tense is called "puncticular," referring primarily to a whole point or period in time when the action takes place. It
should be seen in contrast to the continuous kind of action of the present tense. Therefore, to "perish" in this verse
refers to a specific event, in this case it is potentially future.
Middle Voice: The middle voice indicates that the subject is both the performer and recipient of the action of the verb.
"Cause himself to perish" is the general idea in this verse.
Subjunctive Mood: The subjunctive mood indicates probability or intention. This is in contrast to the indicative mood
which indicates a definite result. The result is not necessarily certain. This is why the English reads, "should" rather than
"shall." The words, "that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life" are meant to explain God's
intention or reason why He "He gave His only begotten Son." Hence, God's intention is that every person who continues
to believe "should not cause himself to perish."
Another good example of the Johannine use of the subjunctive mood in relation to God's will and intention can be found
in the first few verses of John's Gospel. "There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a
witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe" (John 1:6-7). The underlined words are
translated from the Greek verb, "tiotcuoeoiv" aorist active subjunctive. The context here clearly indicates that
God's intent and purpose for sending John to announce the coming of Christ was so that "all through him might
believe." Yet, not all did believe. In fact, only a minority believed. John used the subjunctive mood with regard to God's
purpose because it is clear that the desired result is not necessarily guaranteed.
"Have" (everlasting life)
The verb, "have" is a present subjunctive verb.
Present Tense: The present tense in Greek indicates a continuous action or state. Here it implies a continuous
possession of everlasting life. A. T. Robertson translates the identical phrase in the previous verse, "that he may keep
on having everlasting life."
2
Subjunctive Mood: As with "should not perish," the subjunctive mood implies purpose or probability, but not
necessarily a guaranteed result. In English, it is best translated "may have" rather than "will have," (as the indicative
mood would require). It allows some level of uncertainty because only purpose or intention is in view, not the actual
result.
The clause, "should not perish but have everlasting life," describes God's purpose for the subjects mentioned, all those
one who continually believe." He did not state that His intention was that all who had a "born again" experience should
reap this result. That is, a once - for - all kind of believing.
The most precise rendering in English would be as follows: "in order that each [one] who is himself continuing to
believe in Him should not cause himself to perish, but may keep on having everlasting life." All of the
following ideas are implied in this verse.
1. Continuing to have everlasting life is contingent on continuing to believe.
2. If one does perish, it is by his own actions or choosing.
3. The Believer is active not passive in his "believing."
If possession of everlasting life was a permanent condition resulting from having believed in the past (OSAS), we would
expect the passage to use the perfect tense form of "believe." That is, "every one who has believed." The perfect tense
indicates a completed action with continuing results. The use of the present participle speaks only of a persevering and
continuous faith, not a once for all kind of faith. That is, we are in possession of eternal life while we are "believing." We
can logically infer from this statement that God did not give His only begotten Son in order that those who believed
once - for - all might not to perish.
What is "Everlasting Life?"
Those who believe OSAS argue that if believers currently possess eternal life, and if it is really "eternal," we could never
loose it. Otherwise, it would not be eternal. This argument seems very powerful, and appears to be totally logical.
However, it is based on a misconception of what eternal life really is. It also assumes that the adjective "eternal" refers
to the duration of the believer's possession of "life." It ignores the possibility that the word "eternal" might refer to a
quality or identity of this kind of "life."
Since "eternal life" is a "gift," many Christians think of it as something given once, and then retained in one's
possession. But, the Bible teaches that "eternal life" is a continuous flowing stream of life which is impossible to
exhaust.
John 4:10,13,14
10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to
drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him
shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
(KJV)
It is important to understand that the term "living water" was understood in the Jewish culture to refer to flowing
water as opposed to standing water. [See Song of Sol. 4:15]. Notice that the "gift of God" that Jesus spoke of was
"everlasting life," spoken of metaphorically as "living water." This gift of life was said to be flowing, a continuous
stream. This is exactly what Paul spoke of in the following verse.
Rom 6:23
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(KJV)
Paul was simply referring back to Jesus' explanation of the "gift of God" being a fountain of life flowing perpetually into
the believer.
Jesus indicated that His giving "everlasting life" was a continual action in the present, not a past action at the moment
of salvation.
John 10:27-28
27 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.
28 "And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.
(NKJV)
We have a similar situation in this passage as in John 3:15. The verbs are in the present tense, indicating a continuous
action. That is, "My sheep are hearing My voice, and I know them, and they are following Me. And I am giving to them
eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand." Jesus continually gives His
"everlasting life" to His sheep who are hearing His voice and following Him. This passage does NOT imply that Jesus
gave everlasting life to His sheep who heard His voice and followed Him. As in John 3:15, there is a continuous
reciprocal action going on here. We have the same kind of activity described by John in His first Epistle, again using
present tense verbs. "But if we are walking in the light as He is in the light, we continue having fellowship with one
another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son is cleansing us from all sin." (1 John 1:7)
Jesus spoke of this flowing stream of "life" in the following passage.
John 7:38-39
38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not
yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
(KJV)
Now, I want you to compare this passage with the one in John 4. Notice that in John 4, Jesus said the "living water"
would be a spring flowing to everlasting life. But, in this passage, Jesus was equating "living water" to the indwelling
of the Holy Spirit. Are you starting to get the picture yet? There is another passage we need to tie in here. This
passage gives Jesus' definition of the words "eternal life."
John 17:3
3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast
sent.
(KJV)
Notice, Jesus did not say that you get eternal life by knowing Him. He said eternal life IS knowing Him. Eternal life is
NOT something apart from God Himself. Having "eternal life" is having Christ in us, and us in Him. He is eternal, and He
is life! The life that flows from Him cannot be exhausted.
John 1:4
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
(KJV)
Jesus is Life! He lives in us through His Spirit, and we live "in Him." Eternal life is not something apart from God
Himself. He has infused Himself into us. His own life flows in and through us because we are "in Christ." Paul did not
originate the idea of being "in Christ," Jesus did. Paul simply borrowed it.
John 15:1-7
1 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.
2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be
even more fruitful.
3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.
4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can
you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me
you can do nothing.
6 If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up,
thrown into the fire and burned.
7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
(NIV)
The words, "in me" or "in Christ" are not some mystical mumbo jumbo. They have specific reference to this parable.
Whenever such terms are used in the New Testament it should conjure up in our thinking Jesus parable of the vine and
branches, where He introduced the concept to His disciples.
3
The meaning of "remain" (or abide - KJV) is clearly to "continue" IN CHRIST. The term "in Christ," used throughout the
New Testament, comes from Jesus' parable. This is what it means to be "in Christ." In the same way a branch is "in the
vine," that is, it is a part of the vine, it is attached to the vine, and the life of the vine flows through the branch,
perpetually sustaining it. This is what keeps the branch alive, and causes it to bear fruit. Jesus' point is clear. To be "in
Christ" is to be attached to the vine, having the life of Christ flowing through us. Did the branch receive a one time gift
of life, and can now live on its own perpetually? Was this branch Jesus described "once saved always saved?" NO! Jesus
made it clear that this life is ONLY perpetual BECAUSE the branch chooses to REMAIN in the vine. Jesus' plea for His
followers here is to REMAIN in Him. Because, if they do not, they will wither and die. And, the end result will be being
thrown into the fire. We are both "in Christ" as the branch is in the vine, and He is in us, as the life of the vine flows to
the branches (see Jn. 6:56)! We need this relationship, and we must maintain it to persevere to the end.
Decades after Jesus spoke the True Vine parable to His disciples, warning them to remain in Him, John delivered the
same warning to Christians at the end of the first century.
I John 2:24-25
24 See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in
the Father.
25 And this is what he promised us even eternal life.
(NIV)
It is apparent why John's Gospel constantly used the present tense for "believing" when speaking of possessing eternal
life. "Believers" have eternal life because they are remaining in Christ through the Gospel and their continuous faith in
Christ. His exhortation to Christians above includes both a command and a conditional statement. The command is that
they must continue to hold to the doctrine of Christ. Obviously, such a command anticipates that it is possible to
abandon the Gospel. The conditional statement indicates that remaining in the Son and the Father is conditional upon
obeying the previous command.
Those who abandon their faith no longer "believe." Consequently, they no longer have eternal life. These are the
branches who do not remain in the vine.
As we saw in John 7:38,39, this life is flowing through us who are "in Christ" by the presence and flow of the Spirit of
Christ that dwells in us as believers. God is Life. God is Eternal. The word "eternal" does not describe the duration of our
possession of "life." It describes the quality of God Himself, and the life that flows from Him. God lives perpetually in us
by the Spirit of Christ who perpetually gives us life. It is this same Spirit that will make alive our mortal bodies at the
resurrection.
Rom 8:10-11
10 And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.
11 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also
give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.
(NKJ)

Notes:
1. Wallace Daniel B., Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics, p. 620.
2. Robertson, A. T., Word Pictures, comment on Jn. 3:15.
3. John 6:56 is the first time Jesus spoke of believers being "in me." "He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him." Here it was in the
form of a riddle, which the disciples did not understand. In John 15, almost immediately after Jesus had given them the bread and wine, Jesus fully explained
the concept of being "in me" to His disciples in plain speech using the True Vine parable.
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Sealed by the Spirit
Apostasy in Hebrews
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PFRS Home > Doctrinal Studies > Eternal Security >
Eternal Security?
Sealed by the Spirit
Copyright Tim Warner - 03/2003
The doctrine of Eternal Security is sometimes supported using passages that speak of our being "sealed by the Spirit."
Eph 4:30
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
(KJV)
Some believe that once a person is "sealed" he can never be lost. But they fail to understand "sealing" in its historical
context. Today, "sealing" might give the impression of something that is permanent. But, in Paul's day, "sealing" was a
legal term. When a document was sealed, it meant it was authentic. The official would roll up the legal document, place
a peice of wax to hold the loose end, then press the insignia of his seal into the wax. This was similar to a notary stamp.
As long as the document remained closed, and the seal intact, it was considered legally valid. This was to insure that
the document was not altered. The Catholic Encyclopedia describes later church bishops adopting the use of the seal
from the Roman government.
"At first they were only used for securing the document from impertinent curiosity and the seal was
commonly attached to the ties with which it was fastened. When the letter was opened by the
addressee the seal was necessarily broken. Later the seal served as an authentication and was
attached to the face of the document. The deed was thus only held to be valid so long as the seal
remained intact. It soon came to follow from this point of view that not only real persons like kings and
bishops, but also every kind of body corporate, cathedral chapters, municipalities, monasteries, etc., also
required a common seal to validate the acts which were executed in their name."
Suppose a person received a promise of an inheritance in a legal will, properly witnessed and sealed in a scroll by a
representitive of the Roman government. When the time came for the recipient to redeem his inheritance, he would
present the legal document to the official with the seal unbroken. The first thing the official would do is inspect the seal
to make sure it had not been broken. If the seal had been broken, the official would know the document had been
tampered with, and it would be considered void. The inheritance would be denied.
This is the analogy that Paul was using when he spoke of being "sealed by the Spirit unto the day of redemption." The
"day of redemption" is the day we present our covenant with God, sealed by the Holy Spirit, to redeem our inheritance
in the Kingdom of God. We must protect that covenant, and not tamper with the seal of the Holy Spirit.
Eph 1:13-14
13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having
believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,
14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.
(NKJV)
The Holy Spirit has sealed us UNTIL the time of redemption comes, when we receive our inheritance. Was it possible for
a Roman citizen to break the wax seal and tamper with the document? Sure it was. But this would certainly void the
document. This is also true of one who breaks the seal of the Holy Spirit. That's why "blasphemy of the Holy Spirit" is
the only sin that cannot be forgiven. In passages that speak of falling away, we see that this sin against the Holy Spirit
is definately involved with apostasy.
Heb 6:4-6
4 For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been
made partakers of the Holy Spirit,
5 and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,
6 and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves
the Son of God, and put Him to open shame.
(NASB)
Heb 10:29 29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the
Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done
despite unto the Spirit of grace?
(KJV)
This is why Paul warned us not to tamper with our seal.
Eph 4:30
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
(KJV)
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No Turning Back
Examples of Apostasy
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Apostasy in Hebrews
Apostasy in 2 Peter
PFRS Home > Doctrinal Studies > Eternal Security >
Apostasy
& the Book of Hebrews
Copyright Tim Warner - 04/2004
The book of Hebrews is without question the most important regarding the question of apostasy. The warning in Heb. 6
is repeated several times in several ways in this book. Therefore, rather than merely looking at one isolated passage, it
is wise to view them as a group. It might be relatively easy to get around one isolated passage in the quest to maintain
OSAS. But taken together, these passages are unanswerable.
Before we begin, let's restate the PFRS position on the security of the believer.
1. Salvation is accomplished by God's grace alone. God draws all men, and grants all the ability and the free choice to
respond to the Gospel in faith. But, the choice is ours alone. God does not make it for us.
2. Works do not merit salvation in any way, or contribute to our salvation. Salvation is entirely of God.
3. Since "believing" is a prerequisite on our part, continuing to believe is how we persevere (not by works).
4. Since we can submit to the Gospel, or resist God's grace and drawing, we can also submit or resist in our Christian
walk. We remain "in Christ" as long as we are walking by faith in Christ and the Gospel.
5. A true believer who has repented, received God's grace by faith, CAN later become entangled in sin. If he persistently
resists the correction and drawing to repentance by the Spirit, he can "harden his heart." Through a process of
hardening the heart, a once faithful believer can eventually succumb to UNBELIEF. This is the conscious rejection of
Christ and the Gospel apostasy. It results in "departing from God" and the forfeiture of one's eternal inheritance.
6. The apostate can never be restored. He is essentally in the same condition as the "reprobate" in Romans 1. God has
given up on him.
7. While there is only one way for a believer to "depart from God" unbelief, there are two roads to unbelief mentioned
in Scripture.
a. resisting God's correction and conviction of sin leads to a hardened heart, then unbelief.
b. deception regarding the Gospel. That is, being seduced away from the true Gospel to a false Gospel. This necessarily
leads to UNBELIEF in the true saving Gospel of Christ.
Hebrews 2
Heb 2:1-4
1 Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.
2 For if the word spoken through angels proved steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just
reward,
3 how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was
confirmed to us by those who heard Him,
4 God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to
His own will?
(NKJ)
Observations:
1. The "things we have heard" (v. 1) refers to the word of Christ the Gospel. God has "in these last days spoken to us
by His Son"(1:2).
2. In verses 2-3, Paul draws a comparison between the situation under the Mosaic Covenant and the New Covenant. He
repeats this kind of comparison many times in the book. In ch. 1, he compared the revelation of the Old Covenant,
given through "prophets" with the revelation given through Christ. The obvious point is that Christ's revelation is
superior. Consequently, there is a greater responsibility on the part of the one partaking in the covenant through Christ
than through Moses and the prophets. The comparison between vss. 2 & 3 implies that since the penalty for neglecting
the Law of Moses by Jews under the Law was severe, it is much more severe for neglecting the word of Christ.
3. Paul's warning is NOT that his readers should attain to something they do not yet have. Rather, it is that they not
neglect what they already have, and consequently "drift away" from their secure position.
4. "How shall we escape" implies the potential for severe judgment, most likely the most severe form of judgment
eternal damnation. Since Paul was contrasting the condition of Israel under the former dispensation, the penalty
prescribed by the Law should be considered here. The central passage is Deut 29, which describes all the "cursing"
imposed on the Jews for forsaking or neglecting the covenant. The ultimate penalty for neglecting the New Covenant is
worse.
5. Note the use of the first person plural. "How shall WE escape if we neglect..." Paul included himself (potentially) in
the warning. Therefore, the severe penalty applies to Paul as well IF he would "neglect so great salvation."
Conclusions:
1. The penalty threatened is not explicetly stated, though it is implied that it is worse than that under the Law. This
passage alone does not explicetly indicate a believer can be lost, only that he might be punished more severely than the
Law prescribes.
2. Paul's exhortation is to remain in their secure place, as opposed to "drifting away." If the audience is assumed to be
true believers, the warning is that they not abandon the Gospel that saved them through neglect. If the audience is
presumed to be merely Jews who might be considering Christ, the warning might imply that they not squander their
opportunity to accept Christ through neglect.
Hebrews 3
This chapter begins by clearly identifying the audience Paul was addressing "holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly
calling." This statement could hardly apply to unbelieving Jews. He goes on to once again compare Christ to Moses, Old
Covenant to New Covenant. Moses was faithful in his household. "But Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house
we are if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end." (v. 6). Like 2:3, we have another
conditional statement. Being Christ's household ultimately depends on whether one perseveres in hope to the end.
Paul continues by reminding them of the Israelites in the wilderness at Kadesh Barnea. Here, for the first time, the
penalty Paul was warning them about is strongly implied "so I swore in my wrath that they shall not enter my rest."
In this illustration, the penalty was that the entire generation of Jews died in the wilderness, never being able to see or
inherit the "promised land."
Heb 3:12-14
12 Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God;
13 but exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
14 For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end,
(NKJ)
Observations:
1. Again Paul refers to his audience as "brethren," as in verse 1 "holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling."
2. The warning here is that some of them (the holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling) might have in them a
heart that departs from God through unbelief. Notice, as in ch. 2, the warning is against LEAVING the secure position.
In this case it is to "depart from God."
3. The means whereby this is possible is "unbelief." It is significant that in the example of the Jews at Kadesh Barnea,
the reason they could not enter the promised land was their "unbelief." Having believed God, and followed Moses
through the wilderness, they later abandoned their faith and refused to go into the land, not believing that God would
win their battles for them as He promised.
4. In verse 13, Paul begins to give the means of assuring their security. "Exhort one another daily while it is called
'today'." The word "today" harkens back to verse 7. There Paul quoted Psalm 95:7-11. David warned Israel against
departing from God in that passage, appealing to Kadesh Barnea. The exhortation, in light of the disaster at Kadesh
Barnea, was, "Today if you will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation." In verse 13, when Paul
says, "exhort one another while it is called 'today'," he was saying that there is a period of time (today) if one whose
heart may be succumbing to unbelief, where restoration is still possible. It is still "today," before he departs from God
through unbelief.
5. The second part of verse 13 tells us how the process of "departing from God" through unbelief takes place. It is
through the process of "heardening the heart." And that comes via "the deceitfulness of sin." So, it seems that the
"deceitfulness of sin" can lead to one hardening their heart. This is a voluntary act. Remember, the Psalm Paul quoted
said, "today if you will hear His voice, do not hearden your heart." Heardening one's heart is therefore a choice one can
make when they "hear His voice." And since Paul was speaking of the "deceitfullness of sin," it seems that the warning
implies that a believer can be tempted to sin and harden his heart when he hears "His voice." The hardened heart in
turn is the breeding ground for "unbelief," which leads to one "departing from God."
6. Verse 14 is another conditional statement, like verse 6. Perseverance is a requirement if one is to be a partaker with
Christ. In the following verses Paul again refers to Kadesh Barnea. The conclusion is that "they could not enter in
because of unbelief" (v. 19). The warning for the "holy brethren" is the same.
Conclusions:
1. There is no longer any question that Paul was addressing the warnings in this book to believing Jews.
2. What it means to "drift away" (ch. 2) is more clearly defined as "departing from the living God."
3. What it means to "neglect so great salvation" (ch. 2) is also more clearly defined as nurturing an "evil heart of
unbelief," through a process of "hardening" the heart when one hears "His voice."
4. Twice in this chapter Paul states that perseverance is absolutely a requirement if one expects to share in Christ. And
twice he tells them how, by maintining their current "hope" steadfast to the end. Obviously, this was the opposite of
succumbing to "unbelief." Therefore, it seems that he equated "hope" with "faith." This, and similar statements, strongly
imply that the exhortation is to REMAIN in their current secure state, not to seek to attain something they did not
already possess. Therefore, we can rule out the idea that Paul was exhorting unbelieving Jews, who might be
considering Christ, to go on to salvation.
5. It is significant that while Paul used the first person pronouns (including himself) when articulating the means of
perseverance (WE are made partakers... etc), he did NOT include himself in this warning "take heed lest there be in
any of YOU..." It seems to me that in chapter 2, Paul included himself in a general or generic sense, because the truth
of what he was saying applies to ALL believers equally. "How shall WE escape if WE neglect so great salvation?"
However, when he began to get specific, he implied that the danger of a slide into apostasy was potentially for "some of
you." That is, some of the "holy brethren" might be in danger, because they were tempted to harden their hearts when
they hear His voice. Yet, he made it clear that it was "still today" and those brethren who might be in danger could still
be rescued from the "slipery slope" IF they are "exhorted daily."
Hebrews 6
Heb 6:4-12
4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become
partakers of the Holy Spirit,
5 and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come,
6 if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put
Him to an open shame.
7 For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is
cultivated, receives blessing from God;
8 but if it bears thorns and briars, it is rejected and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned.
9 But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, things that accompany salvation, though we
speak in this manner.
10 For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have
ministered to the saints, and do minister.
11 And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end,
12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
(NKJ)
Observations:
1. What is "impossible" is NOT that a believer can fall away, but that restoration is impossible IF one falls away.
2. The term, "once enlightened," most likely refers to a believer, especially since Paul used the same Greek word as a
synonym for salvation in Heb. 10:32.
3. To have "tasted" of the good word of God, and powers of the age to come, and the heavenly gift, implies
participation. The word "tasted" does not merely imply sampling. Otherwise, Christ merely sampled death for every man
(Heb. 2:9). See also 1 Pet. 2:3.
4. To be a "partaker of the Holy Spirit" can only apply to true believers. The Greek word means to be a partner with.
5. Those, having been in this state, if they fall away, cannot be renewed to repentance. Notice that the word
"renew" (anakainizein) "again" (palin) indicates a repeated act. That is, one cannot enter the state of true repentance a
second time (or repeatedly). This is proof that the persons spoken of ONCE had repented. But having fallen away, it is
impossible to return to their former repentance.
6. The reason Paul gives for this impossibility is that such a condition would "crucify afresh" the Son of God. That is, a
second time. The implication is that the atonement is a one time deal for the individual. There is no second atonement
for the apostate. Christ will not come back to die again for him. The apostate, in this state, brings shame upon Christ.
7. Paul used a parable of a plant producing fruit. No doubt this refers back to the "True Vine" parable in John 15. The
thorn bearing plants are obviously representing those who "fall away" in the previous verses. Their end is to be burned.
Interrestingly, the Greek word for "rejected" in verse 8 is the same word translated "reprobate" in Rom. 1:28, 2 Cor.
13:5,6,7, 2 Tim. 3:8, Titus 1:16, In each case, it refers to the worst kind of depravity. For example, in 2 Tim. 3:8 Paul
spoke of apostates as "reprobate concerning the Faith."
8. In verse 9, Paul expressed personal confidence in his readers. He did NOT state that the warnings do not apply to
them, nor that they were not in danger. Rather, Paul trusted that his readers would heed the warnings and flee the
danger. This is not uncommon for Paul, to warn, and then express personal confidence that his readers will overcome. A
good example is Phil 1:6. "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform
it until the day of Jesus Christ:" Paul was not stating an absolute certainty. Rather, he was expressing that he had
personal confidence that all the Philippians would persevere in sanctification.
9. Verse 10 clearly indicates that his audience was believers, who had demonstrated their faith through good works.
10. Verse 11 Paul indicates his DESIRE that all of them PERSEVERE in their faith to the end. This would be totally
redundant IF all were guarenteed perseverance.
11. "That you not become sluggish" is just another way of saying what Paul said in ch. 2, that they could "drift away" if
they "neglect so great salvation." This also refers back to the end of chapter 5, when Paul said that they should have
been teachers by now, but had lagged behind in their maturity, still needing to be taught the basic principles of the
Faith. No doubt, Paul held the Jewish believers up to a higher standard than the Gentiles, who had no background in the
Word of God. He was ashamed that they had not progressed in their maturity. This is why some of them stood in
danger of apostasy.
12. Paul's ultimate desire was that they all "imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises." The
word "patience" means endurance or perseverance. Both FAITH and PERSEVERANCE in that faith are necessary if one
expects to inherit the promises. Again, such a statement is totally redundant IF all were guarenteed an inheritance.
Conclusions:
1. The intended audience were definately believers. The list of qualifications could mean nothing short of this.
2. The danger of "falling away" is real.
3. The opportunity for restoration of the apostate is nill.
4. The repeated action of the verbs in verse 6 proves that they had been formerly saved.
5. Paul's expressed confidence of "better things" for his readers does not nullify the warning. It merely indicates that
Paul had personal confidence that his readers would heed the warnings and not neglect so great salvation.
Hebrews 10
There is more to the Heb. 10 passage than just verses 26-30. I have highlighted the parts that I think are significant to
the question of OSAS in bold. The use of present tense verbs and participles, highlighted in blue, indicating
their current condition, and other verbs and participles in the perfect tense, highlited in green, indicating a
past completed action with continuing results, and imperitave statements in red, point to the fact that his
audience were already believers. On this basis Paul exhorts them to persevere to the end.
Heb 10:19-39
19 Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh,
21 and having a High Priest over the house of God,
22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and
our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,
25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so
much the more as you see the Day approaching.
26 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a
sacrifice for sins,
27 but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.
28 Anyone who has rejected Moses' law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
29 Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God
underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the
Spirit of grace?
30 For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The Lord will judge His
people."
31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
32 But recall the former days in which, after [aorist tense] you were illuminated, you endured a great struggle with
sufferings:
33 partly while you were made a spectacle both by reproaches and tribulations, and partly while you became
companions of those who were so treated;
34 for you had compassion on me in my chains, and joyfully accepted the plundering of your goods, knowing that you
have a better and an enduring possession for yourselves in heaven.
35 Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the
promise:
37 "For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry.
38 Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, my soul has no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.
(NKJ)
Observations:
1. Verses 19-22 lay the foundation, indicating that Paul's readers were already true believers, "having" (present
participle) boldness to enter into the presence of God, and "having" (perfect participle ie., "having had") our conscience
"sprinkled" (a Hebrew idiom for purified), and our bodies [having been] washed with pure water (baptism). This was the
condition of Paul's readers. And with all this in mind,...
2. Paul instructs them to PERSEVERE in their profession of Faith, the major theme of the whole book. As in chapter 3,
he continues to equate "faith" with "hope." This is common in Paul when he addresses a Jewish audience (cf. Acts 23:6,
24:15, 26:6,7, 28:20, also see Rom. 4:18, 8:24-25).
3. Verse 25 instructs them not to forsake meeting together. Apparently there was a problem with some of the Jewish
converts not gathering together, particularly with the Gentile believers. The recipients of this Epistle probably were
Jewish brethren scattered among the Gentile cities, as in 1 Pet. 1:1 & Jas. 1:1. The statement "exhorting one another"
is exactly as in 3:13 as the remedy for those in danger of apostasy.
4. The "willful sin" in verse 26 is not any sin, but the sin of apostasy, against which he was warning them in this entire
chapter, and entire book. Note his use of the first person plural "WE." The warning applies to all believers including Paul.
5. Those who apostasize from the Faith, that is those who do not heed the imperative statement in verse 23, "Let us
hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering," ... "there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins." Note
the words "no longer" imply that the sacrifice had formerly covered their sins, but no more.
6. The condition of the apostate is the same as the unbeliever, looking forward to the "fiery indignation" waiting to
"devour the adversaries."
7. In verses 29-29, Paul does what he has repeatedly done in this book, compare the severity of punishment of
apostates from the Law to the much more severe punishment for apostasy from Christ and the New Covenant.
8. In verse 29 Paul articulates exactly what "apostasy" means. The apostate is guilty of the following, having "trampled
the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted
the Spirit of grace." Note that he WAS FORMERLY sanctified by the blood of the covenant. But now awaits the "fiery
indignation." This is THE characteristic of an apostate, a loathing of the Gospel, and willful hatred for of the Spirit of
grace. The apostate, from the moment of his apostasy, has become an enemy of the Gospel, and this hatred for Christ
will be apparent.
9. In verse 32 he calls them to remember their first works as believers, as evidence of the fruit of the Gospel in their
lives. He was most likely referring to his stay in Ceasarea for 2 years awaiting trial prior to being sent to Rome on
appeal. That is where the Jewish brethren ministered to his needs under the threat of persecution themselves. Note the
word "illuminated," clearly in referrence to their initial salvation and acceptance of the Gospel, is the same Greek word
translated "enlightened" in Heb. 6:4, also referring to their initial salvation.
10. In verse 35, again we have the imperative statement to persevere, as in vs. 23.
11. Verse 36 clearly indicates that MORE is needed if they expect to inherit the promises, that is, "endurance" or
"perseverance" is required.
12. In vs. 38, Paul cites Hab. 2:4, where the prophet warned of the impending judgment from the Babylonians. "The
just shall live by faith" referred to the remnant who would escape the judgment, while the rest of the nation wallowed in
their apostasy, and would be harshly judged.
13. "If any man draw back" refers to the apostasy he has been warning about throughout the entire book. To "draw
back" is to "trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a
common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace." It is to "cast away your confidence" v. 23, and not to "hold fast the
confession of our hope without wavering."
14. Some contend that verse 39 proves OSAS. But that hardly does the context justice! Why would Paul spend so much
ink warning them, only to negate everything he has written by a statement affirming that there is no danger for
believers? Rather, Paul, as in Heb. 6:9, expresses CONFIDENCE that all of his readers will persevere, because of their
heeding the warnings in this Epistle. The "we" MIGHT refer to to Paul and those accompanying him. Or it may refer to
both Paul and the readers of the Epistle. Either way, it does not in any way negate all of the warnings, only express
Paul's personal confidence.
Conclusions:
1. There can be absolutely no question that the warnings against apostasy were directed at true believers, who HAD
BEEN "illuminated," who had been "sprinkled" by the blood, who had been baptized, and who had been "sanctified by
the blood of the covenant."
2. The penalty for apostasy is the same "fiery indignation" that will devour the adversaries.
3. As in ch. 6, there is no repentance from apostasy.
4. Endurance in the Faith is an absolute necessity for those expecting to inherit the promises. And because Paul uses
imperative statements regarding endurance, it is within the power of each individual to obey or reject this command.
5. Apostasy is most certainly possible for the true believer, as many other passages outside of Hebrews also prove.
Hebrews 12
It is very significant that Hebrew 11 intervenes between chapter 10, which discusses apostasy and the need to
persevere to the end, and chapter 12 which does the same thing. The "Faith chapter" sandwiched between these
recounts many of the Old Testament heros whose "FAITH" endured to the end. This "cloud of witnesses" (12:1) were
cheering on Paul's readers in their own "race" to the finish line.
Heb 12:1-29
1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin
which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross,
despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in
your souls.
4 You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin.
5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the
Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him;
6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives."
7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?
8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.
9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more
readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?
10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers
of His holiness.
11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable
fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees,
13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.
14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:
15 looking diligently lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble,
and by this many become defiled;
16 lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright.
17 For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for
repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears.
18 For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire, and to blackness and
darkness and tempest,
19 and the sound of a trumpet and the voice of words, so that those who heard it begged that the word should not be
spoken to them anymore.
20 (For they could not endure what was commanded: "And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be
stoned or shot with an arrow."
21 And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, "I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.")
22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable
company of angels,
23 to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the
spirits of just men made perfect,
24 to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.
25 See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much
more shall WE not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven,
26 whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, "Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but
also heaven."
27 Now this, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made,
that the things which cannot be shaken may remain.
28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God
acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
29 For our God is a consuming fire.
(NKJ)
Observations:
1. The "race" we entered when we believed must be finished.
2. We can rely on Christ, the "author and finisher" of our Faith, for strength. He provides everything necessary. But,
ultimately, we must finish and NOT turn back.
3. The "chastening of the Lord" implies that the suffering the Jewish believers were undergoing was in part a purifying
process leading to their sanctification.
4. There are two possible reactions of believers to the "chastening of the Lord."
a. In verses 12-14, the result for thiose who submit to this "chastening," is the "peaceable fruit of righteousness," and
the lame being "turned back into the way" (KJV). That is, the chastening produces the desired results, holiness.
b. A "root of bitterness" can spring up, and "defile." This definatley refers back to Deut 29, the chapter that describes all
the "curses" of the Law for those who abandon it. "Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe,
whose heart turneth away this day from the LORD our God, to go and serve the gods of these nations; lest there should
be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood; And it come to pass, when he heareth the words of this curse,
that he bless himself in his heart, saying, I shall have peace, though I walk in the imagination of mine heart, to add
drunkenness to thirst: The LORD will not spare him, but then the anger of the LORD and his jealousy shall smoke
against that man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall lie upon him, and the LORD shall blot out his
name from under heaven." (Deut 29:18-20). Again, Paul seeks to use the OT penalty for apostasy from Moses as his
example, yet stress that the penalty is far worse for those who apostasize from Christ.
5. Note that in verse 16 Paul likens apostasy to Esau, who "sold his birthright." Esau sold his birthright and inheritance
for something that gratified his flesh for a moment. Paul warns that among his readers there might be some who would
sell their birthright for "fornication." Notice he calls this person a "fornicator." In the Jewish context, this clearly refers to
apostasy from God. The entire book of Hosea deals with this kind of "fornication." James, also writing to a Christian
Jewish audience, refers to spiritual "adultery" (Jas. 4:1ff).
6. Paul draws the analogy from Esau, who could not undo what he had done. Likewise, there is no repentance from
apostasy, as per Heb. 6 & 10.
7. In vss. 18-24, he seeks to draw another comparison between the giving of the Law, which was awesome, with the
New Covenant, which is the better covenant. Consequently, as he has repeatedly done in this Epistle, he indicates that
the penalty for apostasy from the New Covenant has much more severe consequences.
8. See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much
more shall WE not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven." This again refers back to his statements
in chapter 3, quoting David, "Today if you will hear His voice, harden not your hearts as in the provication." And again,
the penalty is more severe for turning a deaf ear to His voice, than it was under the Law. As in chapter 2, Paul includes
himself in the warning. In chapter 2 he said, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?" And here he says,
"much more shall WE not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven." And Paul goes on to tell what it is
that they would escape from: the "great shaking" that is coming, when only that which can stand will survive, when
Christ's Kingdom comes to earth.
Conclusion:
The whole book of Hebrews is about "endurance" and "perseverance" for those who have believed. The constant
referrence to the Jews under the Law, the superiority of the New Covenant to the Old, and Christ to Moses, all serve to
highlight the most awesome responsibility of believers to persevere, and the much more severe penalty for apostasy.
The heros of Faith are held up as the examples of perseverance in the Faith. The prize held up for believers who endure
is the coming Kingdom. The penalty for those who do not persevere in their faith is the "fiery indignation" that will
"devour the adversaries."
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Apostasy in 2 Peter
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Apostasy
According to Peter
Copyright Tim Warner - 04/2004
The second Epistle of Peter is similar to Hebrews in that it repeatedly warns believers against apostasy. In chapter one,
Peter used very specific language to describe believers. Then, in chapter two, he warned believers against the false
teachers who would attempt to seduce them away from the Gospel. He used the same language regarding those who
fall away from the Faith as he used in chapter one regarding true believers. It is therefore obvious that Peter taught his
Christian readers could abandon the faith and be lost.

Peter equated the term "knowledge" of Jesus Christ with salvation. The Greek word is "epignosis," meaning full or
intimate knowledge. Notice that the ALL THINGS necessary to live a godly life come THROUGH (dia - the channel of an
act) the "knowledge" of Christ. Those with this "knowledge" had "escaped" the corruption of the world. There is no
question that this terminology was used by Peter in reference to salvation. Yet, in the end of chapter 3, those deceived
by the false teachers had also previously "escaped" the polution of the world through the "knowledge" of Christ.
Precisely the same terminology is used of those who follow the false teachers and fall away!
Peter wrote of the apostates, "the latter end is worse than the beginning." It would have been better for them not to
have known the way of righteousness, than after having known, to turn away again. Being worse off than never
knowing God can only refer to one who has no hope of repentance, just as Hebrews 6 & 10 indicate.
What could have possibly happened to these people between the beginning of chapter one and the end of chapter 2?
Peter tells us plainly.
2 Pet 2:1-22
1 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will
secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift
destruction.
2 And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.
3 By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and
their destruction does not slumber.
4 For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of
darkness, to be reserved for judgment;
5 and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the
flood on the world of the ungodly;
6 and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example
to those who afterward would live ungodly;
7 and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked
8 (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing
their lawless deeds)--
9 then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the
day of judgment,
10 and especially those who walk according to the flesh in the lust of uncleanness and despise authority. They are
presumptuous, self-willed. They are not afraid to speak evil of dignitaries,
11 whereas angels, who are greater in power and might, do not bring a reviling accusation against them before the
Lord.
12 But these, like natural brute beasts made to be caught and destroyed, speak evil of the things they do not
True Believers Apostates
2 Pet 1:2-4
2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the
knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,
3 as His divine power has given to us all things that
pertain to life and godliness, through the
knowledge of Him who called us by glory and
virtue,
4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great
and precious promises, that through these you may
be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped
the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(NKJ)
2 Pet 2:18-22
18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness,
they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness,
the ones who have actually escaped from those who
live in error.
19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are
slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by
him also he is brought into bondage.
20 For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the
world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and
overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the
beginning.
21 For it would have been better for them not to have known
the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn
from the holy commandment delivered to them.
22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb:
"A dog returns to his own vomit," and, "a sow, having
washed, to her wallowing in the mire."
(NKJ)
understand, and will utterly perish in their own corruption,
13 and will receive the wages of unrighteousness, as those who count it pleasure to carouse in the daytime. They are
spots and blemishes, carousing in their own deceptions while they feast with you,
14 having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, beguiling unstable souls. They have a heart trained in
covetous practices, and are accursed children.
15 They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the
wages of unrighteousness;
16 but he was rebuked for his iniquity: a dumb donkey speaking with a man's voice restrained the madness of the
prophet.
17 These are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness
forever.
18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through
lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error.
19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome,
by him also he is brought into bondage.
20 For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning.
21 For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn
from the holy commandment delivered to them.
22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: "A dog returns to his own vomit," and, "a sow, having
washed, to her wallowing in the mire."
(NKJ)
Based on all the bold statements, It cannot be denied that the false teachers will end up in hell. Peter made an
incredible statement here, saying that the Lord "bought" the false teachers. The Greek word is agorazo, the same word
translated "redeemed" elsewhere. Below are some other passages containing the same Greek word.
1 Cor 6:20
20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.
(NKJ)
1 Cor 7:23
23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.
(NKJ)
Rev 5:9
9 And they sang a new song, saying: "You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and
have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,
(NKJ)
Rev 14:3
3 They sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could
learn that song except the hundred and forty-four thousand who were redeemed from the earth.
(NKJ)
Rev 14:4
4 These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb
wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb.
(NKJ)
Consequently, we could translate 2 Pet. 2:1 as, "even denying the Lord who redeemed them, and bring on themselves
swift destruction."
The remainder of the chapter describes the false teachers and their impending doom, based on God's past record of
dealing with such people. The chapter ends with a stern warning for those tempted to follow the smooth talking
preachers of a perverted Gospel. Their "Gospel" permits unholy living according to the lust of the flesh, while promising
"liberty." It leads straight to hell.
Peter had in view here the pseudo-Christian gnostic cults that were beginning to spring up. John dealt with them as well
in his first Epistle. Paul did too in 1 Cor. 15 and in Colossians. Gnostics blended Christianity with Greek philosophy. Like
Plato, they taught that matter was corrupt, and that salvation entailed escaping the material creation and reaching the
Pleroma (Fullness). Christ came to show us the way to the Pleroma, not to die in our place. Because of their low regard
for the material creation, they also had a low regard for the human body. They taught that the things done by the flesh
are of no real consequence to the inner man, who consists of "soul." The body was viewed as merely the temporary
dwelling place of the soul. Therefore, fornication was no big deal, since it concerned the material body, not the soul.
These groups were called "Gnostics" (the Greek word for "knowledge"), because they taught that salvation ultimately
was achieved through learning the secret "mysteries" of Christ. Some Christians were leaving the true Apostolic
churches and following these preachers of perversion and heresy.
In this book, Peter intentionally chose the Greek word, "epignosis" the Greek word for full or intimate knowledge in
order to contrast real Christianity with Gnosticism (gnosis meaning merely "understanding" or "knowledge"). Believers
already had escaped the corruption of the world and flesh through "epignosis" (intimate knowledge of Christ).
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