“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.”
1 John 5:13
Here are very encouraging words from the apostle John on the assurance of salvation. Too many Christians struggle to be confident that they are “really“saved. Is it possible to be absolutely sure that when I die I will go to heaven? Can I know if I have eternal life? John says that he is writing this letter to believers so that they can be sure of exactly that. Peter tells us that it is actually our duty to make our call and our election sure. (2 Peter 1:10) The key is continuing.
If we continue to believe, we abide in God’s goodness (Romans 11:22). If we continue, Jesus will present us holy, blameless, and above reproach in His sight. (Colossians 1:23). Continuing is equated with salvation. (I Timothy 4:16). The Scripture uses other words to convey the same idea like endure and persevere as well. All we must do to be assured of eternal life is continue in the faith. When we continue to serve the Lord, continue to worship Him, continue in the church, continue in covenant with Him, we are absolutely assured of eternal life.
But what about sin? Those who believe in the name of the Son of God confess and forsake their sins when they arise and are promised mercy and forgiveness. (Proverbs 28:13, I John 1:8-10) Those who refuse to repent, on the other hand, do not continue. They do not truly believe in the name of the Son of God and have no assurance.
The good news of the Gospel is that ultimately it is God Himself who enables His children to continue. As Jude 24-25 says, “Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.” Indeed, Amen!
Glory to the Lord of hosts!
His mercy endures forever!
Pastor Flynn
