Introduction

The doctrine of security in salvation is a significant theological topic within Christianity, often discussed under the terms "Temporary Security" and "Eternal Security." These concepts address the question of whether a believer in Jesus Christ can lose their salvation or if it is eternally secure once granted. This entry explores both perspectives, drawing on scriptural references from the Berean Standard Bible .

Temporary Security

The concept of Temporary Security suggests that salvation can be forfeited through apostasy or persistent sin. Proponents of this view argue that while salvation is a gift from God, it requires the believer's continued faith and obedience. Key scriptural passages often cited include:

1. Hebrews 6:4-6 : "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age—and then have fallen away—to be restored to repentance, because they themselves are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting Him to open shame."

2. 2 Peter 2:20-21 : "If indeed they have escaped the corruption of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ only to be entangled and overcome by it again, their final condition is worse than it was at first. It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than to have known it and then to turn away from the holy commandment passed on to them."

3. Matthew 24:13 : "But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved."

These passages are interpreted to mean that a genuine believer can fall away from grace, emphasizing the necessity of perseverance in faith and holiness.

Eternal Security

Eternal Security, often referred to as "Once Saved, Always Saved," posits that once a person is truly saved, they cannot lose their salvation. This view emphasizes the sovereignty and faithfulness of God in maintaining the believer's salvation. Key scriptural references include:

1. John 10:28-29 : "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand."

2. Romans 8:38-39 : "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

3. Ephesians 1:13-14 : "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory."

These passages are interpreted to affirm the assurance of salvation, highlighting God's unchanging promise and the believer's secure position in Christ.

Theological Implications

The debate between Temporary and Eternal Security has significant implications for Christian theology and pastoral care. It affects how believers understand their relationship with God, the nature of faith, and the role of human responsibility in salvation. Both views seek to uphold the integrity of Scripture and the transformative power of the gospel, yet they differ in their interpretation of key biblical texts and the nature of God's covenant with believers.