SALVATION
By: Randy Kea
There are things we need to remember about salvation:
It’s Meaning ~ The basic meaning of the word salvation is “deliverance.” There are different words to define and describe salvation in the New Testament:
1) Redemption (to release or set at liberty; Colossians 1:14; Ephesians 1:7)
2) Remission (a dismissal of sins, a release; Acts 2:38; Matthew 26:28)
3) Reconciliation (to change from a state of enmity to a state of friendship with God; II Corinthians 5:17-21)
4) Justification (to pronounce righteous, an acquittal; Romans 3:26)
It’s Need ~ The desperate need by man of salvation is found in one word ~ SIN. Sin is a transgression of God’s law (I John 3:4). All accountable people have sinned (Romans 3:9-23). Separation from God, bondage, condemnation and guilt result from sin (Ephesians 2:12; Isaiah 59:1-2; John 8:31-36; Genesis 3:1 ff). Eternal separation from God is the ultimate consequence of sin if no salvation is obtained (Romans 6:23; II Thessalonians 1:6-10).
It’s Basis ~ Jesus Christ, the Son of God, His virgin birth, sinless life, vicarious death, mighty resurrection and glorious ascension and coronation at God’s right hand ~ is the basis for man’s salvation and redemption. In a summation of the Gospel facts, Paul affirms, “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.” (I Corinthians 15:3-4)
It’s Location ~ The New Testament identifies and specifies the church as the place of salvation. The Bible says that the saved are added to the church (Acts 2:47). Jesus is the savior of the body (church) (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23). Jesus purchased the church with His own blood (Acts 20:28).
It’s Terms ~ Hearing the message of salvation is essential (Romans 10:17). Believing in Jesus is a must (John 8:21-24). Repentance is commanded of all (Acts 17:30-31). Baptism based upon a confession of faith in Christ completes the steps in the divine plan (Romans 10:9-10; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:1-4)