The Doctrine of Salvation

Understanding salvation gives us legs to stand on in a shaky world. What is the doctrine of salvation though? Why is it so important?
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On Sunday, Eric gave us a better understanding of how the people in Paul's day would have understood salvation. Because of not reaching any part of the target spiritually (hamartia), we should be judged as guilty (katakrima), but the Savior (soter) took our punishment and made it possible for the spiritual flesh (sarx) to be redeemed by the Holy Spirit (pheuma hagios).

We are reminded that all of us fall short (Romans 3:23) and that no one is worthy (Romans 3:10). We are not worthy because of our sinful nature. (Psalm 51:5, Romans 5:12)

Paul wrote in his letter to the church in Ephesus, "Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath." (Eph 2:3) Because of sin we were separated from God and no sacrifice or offering made us whole in the presence of God.

Yet, we are encouraged by something amazing. (Romans 5:2, 6:23) We have been offered the gift of salvation through the life and death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  

The doctrine of salvation says (simply) that:

• We are dead in our sins
• Jesus was sinless
• Jesus took the punishment for our sins by dying for them
• Jesus conquered the grave by being resurrected

Some feel like Christianity is unfair because we believe Jesus is the only way to be saved, the only way to the Father. We get that exclusive reality directly from Scripture as Jesus declared that He is the way, the truth, and the life and that no one gets to the Father EXCEPT through Him. (John 14:6)

Within this idea - which Eric explained in his message - are the ideas of justification, sanctification, and glorification.  

• Justification: Jesus takes our guilt sentence upon Himself.
• Sanctification: The Holy Spirit helps us grow to be like Jesus.
• Glorification: Eventually He will make us “like Him” in the sense of life before sin entered the world.

Salvation is a free gift offered to ALL - given by grace and received in faith. What good news we can enjoy - and share!

Blessings,
Kyle

PS. I will be preaching on Sunday, regarding God's purpose for the church. We look forward to commissioning the McDowell team which will be serving in WV next week. See you Sunday!

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