Questioner
I know that 'justification' is instantaneous for the new convert. However, some new converts think that 'justification' alone is enough to guarantee them a place in heaven. They are not bothered by the necessity of 'sanctification' in their new lives. Sanctification is a process. It is the 'making every effort' to grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. It is really tough work to 'make every effort' to grow in grace. I think many new believers fall short on this score. For example, when they continue to be 'of the world' and neglect their daily secret [private] prayers.Answer
They are either poorly taught, which is very easy to understand in this age, but most likely they are simply not saved, for the Holy Spirit will convict them of their sinful life and neglect and will in time discipline them if they remain disobedient.
Questioner continued
Can a person be really saved when he was 'justified' but did not make every effort to be 'sanctified' from the time of their conversion to their hour of death?
Answer
Yes. Once they are truly saved (if they are) then they are justified. Sanctification is not a requirement for salvation to occur.
Questioner continued
Can salvation be lost?
Answer
No, never. When we are saved we receive "eternal" life, not "temporary" life. Remember God chose His elect before He created the universe. He chose them knowing all the sins they would ever commit in their lives, so there is nothing that a true Christian can ever do that would cause God to take away their salvation. When God chose us to be saved He sealed us and wrote down our names in the Lamb's Book of Life, thus no one can change God's salvation decree.
Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "Tony Capoccia's Questions and Answers" by:
Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
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