Introduction
Some questions of deep concern to the young convert are:
1. How long will my Christian experience last?
2. How can I be sure I will it not slip back into the old paths?
3. How can I hold on to what I have? In seeking the answers to these questions there are two extremes to be avoided.
1. One extreme: "Once converted, a saint can never lose this experience." The Scriptures refute this error. See 1 Corinthians 9:27; 10:12.
2. Another extreme: "It is impossible to live the overcomer's life." See Philippians 4:13; Jude 24; 1 John 3:9.
God has set a definite goal for the Christian to reach (Heb. 6:1; Matt. 5:48; Eph. 4:12, 13).
What warning has God given concerning the dangers to our Christian experience?
1. The danger of neglect—Heb. 2:1-3.
2. The danger of waning faith—Heb. 4:2, 6; 10:35.
3. The danger of presumption—John 8: 33, 39, 40.
4. The danger of deception—2 Thess. 2: 9-12.
5. The danger of apostasy—Heb. 6:4-6.
How does the plan of salvation provide for the spiritual security of the Christian?
1. The priestly ministry of Christ—Heb. 4:14-16; 7:25; Rom. 8:34.
2. The righteousness of Christ.
a. Imputed—Rom. 3:21-24; 4:11.
b. Imparted—Gal. 2:20; Col. 1:27.
3. The ministry of the Holy Spirit—Rom. 8:1, 5, 9-11, 13, 14, 26, 27.
4. The armor of God—Eph. 6:10-18.
5. The faithfulness, forbearance, long-suffering, and goodness of God—Heb. 10: 23; Rom. 2:4.
What is the Christian's part in maintaining a successful experience with God?
1. Confess every sin—1 John 1:9; 2:1.
2. Die to self daily—1 Cor. 15:31.
3. Desire the Word—1 Peter 2:2.
4. Love the law of God—Ps. 119:97.
5. Resist the devil—James 4:7.
6. Draw near to God—Heb. 10:22-25; James 4:8.
7. Grow in grace—2 Peter 3:18; Heb. 5: 12-14.
8. Be faithful—Rev. 2:10.
9. Endure to the end—Matt. 24:13.
10. Strive to enter—Luke 13:24.
What further assurance is given that ultimate salvation is possible?
1. Promises to the overcomer—Rev. 3:5.
2. Christ will hold us fast—John 10:28, 29.
3. The just will fall and rise again—Prov. 24:16.
4. God cannot lie—Titus 1:2.
5. God will finish the work—Phil. 1:6.
6. Have faith in God—Heb. 11:6; 2 Tim. 1:12.