Salvation: Past, Present and Future, Part 2

Last week we began exploring how the Bible teaches Christians that we have been saved (Ephesians 2:8, 9), that we are being saved (1 Corinthians 1:18) and that we will be saved (Romans 5:9). We noted that at first glance this appears confusing and contradictory. However, a careful study makes each aspect understandable and shows how they complement each other. .

Paul emphatically teaches that that we have been saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:4-9). In the original Greek, the grammar indicates that our salvation is complete and that the results of our salvation extend into the present and future. It is by grace – we did nothing to deserve God’s goodness and we can add nothing to our salvation. When salvation is discussed in the past tense, it is describing how we have been saved from the penalty of sin.

When scripture refers to our salvation in the present tense, it is describing how we are being saved from the power of sin. Sanctification is the ongoing process of God working in us (Philippians 2:13) to be obedient to Him and become more like Yeshua (“Jesus” in Hebrew). We are “being saved” from lives that are enslaved to sin. We are “being saved” to enjoy abundant lives (John 10:10) that result in righteous behavior and eternal life (Romans 6:16-23).

We are being saved” from lives that are futile (1 Peter 1:18) – lives wasted on materialism and vain religious practices. Instead, Paul encourages us to “work out our own salvation” (Philippians 2:19). He is not telling us to “earn” our eternal salvation but to live a meaningful life of obedience to God and service to others. These actions are the evidence that our lives are being saved.

When scripture refers to our salvation in the future tense, it is describing how we “will be” saved from the presence of sin. At the present time satan is permitted limited assess to God’s presence (Job 1:6). When he is there, he accuses us of sin “day and night” (Revelation 12:10). But when God’s plan is fulfilled, Satan and his angels are “cast down” into hell (Revelation 10:14-15). The new heaven and earth will be free from his presence (Revelation 22:3).

In heaven, we will be in new eternal bodies (2 Corinthians 5:8). Our resurrected/redeemed bodies will be free from the deteriorating effects of sin (1 Corinthians 15:42-49). In them we will enjoy the presence of God and the opportunity to serve Him forever (Revelation 22:3).

I pray that you will rest securely knowing that you (your eternal spirit) has “been saved” by “grace through faith” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Secure in knowing that salvation cannot be lost by those who genuinely believe (1 John 2:19). Also, I pray that you will fully engage in the process of sanctification through which your present life is “being saved.” Finally, I pray that you look forward to a future in a redeemed body that “will be saved” from the presence of sin, enjoying the presence of God forever.