In Christendom, there are few subjects as controversial as "proving" one's salvation. For instance, far too many people do all sorts of good works hoping to please God and earn heaven. Then, there is the religious group. These are people who are self-made authorities on the Bible and preach and/or teach it to others. They may or may not be saved. You see, God doesn't save us on the basis of what we do or what we know. Instead we're saved by virtue of what Jesus did and where we stand in regard to it.

As Paul prepared to close the chapter on his letter to the Galation believers, he described the way anyone can discern who is saved and who is not. He described a saved person by pointing out they don't walk according to the law, but instead are led by the Holy Spirit. (Cp. Vs 18) As a result, the Spirit reveals His presence in that person by revealing His supernatural character through them. We call this revelation, "fruit," and still today, it presents us with the best test of salvation.

The writer of Hebrews enlightened us to certain things that accompany salvation. (Vs 6:9) Surely the fruit growing out of a spiritual relationship with God is something that confirms God's work in us. But the real test is a self-determination to discern if we're a fruit tree or just using our natural abilities to do good things and thereby emulate one.

Are you showing supernatural evidence of salvation in your life or are you simply doing enough good things to convince yourself and others that you're one of the flock? Only you and God know the answer to the question. But, you should know that real, freewill confession and repentance are often the best "sign" of one's salvation. A lost person naturally resist such action, but the person with a relationship with God not only lives by it, but embraces it.

All that's left for you to do is just to be honest with yourself and God. He already knows your condition and has given His children the Holy Spirit as evidence. But, what He's looking for in you is honesty and you guessed it - that's a sign that accompanies salvation. If you won't be honest with God... Well, you know what that means!

1 Developed from Read the Bible Thru ( Is. 33:13-36:22 Ga. 5:13-26 Ps. 64:1-10 Pr. 23:23 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

Copyright © 1998-2004 James R. Green and Prayertower Ministries
All Rights Reserved