The concept of "those being saved" and "those perishing" is a recurring theme in the New Testament, reflecting the dichotomy between believers who accept the message of the Gospel and those who reject it. This theme underscores the eternal consequences of one's response to the message of Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses this dichotomy explicitly in his letters. In 1 Corinthians 1:18 , Paul writes, "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." Here, Paul contrasts the perception of the Gospel message between two groups: those who dismiss it as foolishness and those who recognize it as the power of God leading to salvation.

The Nature of Salvation

Salvation, in the Christian context, is understood as deliverance from sin and its consequences, achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. Those who are "being saved" are in a continual process of sanctification, growing in holiness and conformity to the image of Christ. This process is initiated by faith and sustained by the grace of God. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes this, stating, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."

The State of Perishing

Conversely, "those perishing" refers to individuals who reject the Gospel and remain in a state of spiritual death. This state is characterized by separation from God and is ultimately realized in eternal judgment. In 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 , Paul explains, "And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God."

The Role of Human Response

The distinction between those being saved and those perishing is not arbitrary but is contingent upon human response to God's revelation in Christ. John 3:16-18 encapsulates this truth: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son."

The Urgency of the Gospel Message

The New Testament presents the Gospel as a message of urgency, calling individuals to repentance and faith. The reality of perishing underscores the necessity of evangelism and the proclamation of the Gospel. In 2 Peter 3:9 , it is written, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

Conclusion

The theme of those being saved and those perishing serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal stakes involved in the acceptance or rejection of the Gospel. It calls believers to a life of faith and evangelistic fervor, motivated by the love and grace of God.