There is a popular teaching that once a person is saved, they can never lose their salvation no matter how they live afterward. But is this consistent with the whole counsel of Scripture? The Bible presents salvation as a living relationship with God — one that must be nurtured, guarded, and persevered in.
From the beginning to the end of the New Testament, believers are called to continue in faith and obedience, not to return to sin. Salvation is not a call to lack of responsibility. Grace is not permission to sin. As Paul warns:
“Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin live in it any longer?”
(Romans 6:1–2)
The Bible does not only warn in theory; it also records real people who once walked with God but later turned aside:
- Judas Iscariot – One of the twelve apostles, he was entrusted with ministry and witnessed Christ’s power, yet betrayed the Lord for money (John 12:4–6; Matthew 26:14–16). He persistently refused to heed to corrections but followed his lust and eventually became lost.
- Demas – A co-worker with Paul who later deserted him because he loved this present world (2 Timothy 4:10).
- Hymenaeus and Alexander – Once in the faith, but rejected it and made shipwreck of their faith (1 Timothy 1:19–20).
These examples show that it is possible to start well but not finish well.
Our Responsibility in Salvation
When we come to Christ, it is the Holy Spirit who gives us the power to walk in righteousness. But we also have the responsibility to yield to Him, resist sin, and persevere in faith.
“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.”
(Philippians 2:12–13)
Jesus Himself said:
“Be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16)
“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15)
Salvation is a gift — but we have a responsibility to yield to the guidance offered by the giver of the gift.
Finishing the Race
Paul likened the Christian life to a race that must be completed with endurance:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)
It is possible to begin the race and drop out. But by abiding in Christ, yielding to the Spirit, and walking in obedience, we can finish strong and hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Conclusion:
The question is not simply, “Were you once saved?” but “Are you walking with Jesus now?” The safest place is not in debating whether salvation can be lost, but in staying close to the Savior every day, shunning sin, and living in the power of the Holy Spirit.
“He who endures to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)
The Lifeline 