TULIP GEMS

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.”  (2 Peter 3:18)

NOT ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD

Not all who PROFESS to be Christians are sure of heaven.  Only saints -- those set apart by the Spirit -- PERSEVERE to the end.  Multitudes claim the name “Christian” who are destitute of Christian knowledge, experience and character.

“And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.  Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”    (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)

Baptism, church membership, a good outward appearance, etc. are NO GUARANTEE that the person is truly elect.  Many make a great profession of religion although they know nothing of the Lord Jesus in sincerity and truth.  Their hearts have never been changed.

Some of these people will finally fall away from the Christian faith.  But they were never sheep in the first place.  They did not lose their salvation.  They never had it.  These wolves either have their sheep's clothing stripped off, of they cast it off themselves.

Only when a person's faith in Christ issues in a consistently holy life can he be assured of his salvation.  “By their fruits ye shall know them” is the test given by our Lord.  Therefore, true believers strive to make their calling and election sure. 

They work out their salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God that works in them to will and to do of His good pleasure.  They fear God and depart from evil.  They love God and keep His Commandments. 

They persevere to the end and are saved.  They are preserved -- kept by the power of Almighty God through faith unto salvation.

(From MY TESTIMONY Copyright © 2002 by George R. Theiss)

Author's Web Site: www.tulipgems.com

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