Originally posted by FMF
Originally posted by Grampy Bobby
[b]Have you considered the claims of Christ?
Originally posted by FMF
I was an adult Christian for 28 years. But I no longer subscribe to the claims made about Christ.
Originally posted by Grampy Bobby
If you've believed in Christ in a moment of time you're a permanent member of Christ ...[text shortened]... ? If this is what happens to them, are they still "a permanent member of Christ's Royal Family"?
According to Christian doctrine (not theology, which is the study of God), salvation is a matter of two "actions," although each of these can be drilled down into finer more technical details.
Salvation itself is a redemption from one state into another state; from a slave market into freedom and all that each entail.
In order for said redemption to be efficacious, the trade must be equitable--- of at least equal to, if not greater in value than the debt.
The first required action is that which has been done by the Lord Jesus Christ, the work He performed on the Cross.
The second action is the acceptance (faith) of man: he accepts the work done on the Cross as though it is his work, exchanging his work for the work of the Lord Jesus Christ.
As stated, there is more to it than that in terms of technical aspects, but this is what is taught in Scripture on a broad scope.
Those who espouse a need for other work may be very sincere, but their interpretation of Scripture is single-minded without considering the mosaic of the whole picture.
If I can do nothing for my salvation other than accept the gift, whatever glory can be had goes to the gift giver.
If my salvation is dependent upon my work, I can share in the glory of my redemption.