Question: Thanks for reading my letter. I know that you probably have better time to spend than to read my letter. My question is about eternal Salvation. I see that one person already asked you this question, but I was unsatisfied with your answer. I am non-denominational and was always taught that one can backslide. I am in Bible College now and I am actually doing a project on this question.

Thanks!

Tony

Answer: Dear Tony,

You note that you are in Bible College, that you are non-denominational and that you have a project to study eternal security – also more classically referred to as the perseverance of the saints. You say that you are unsatisfied with the answers we give on this topic, for you have always been taught something different. I have no reason to doubt that you disagree, or doubt what you have always been taught, but it is up to you to consider that there might be other ways to approach this topic – other than what you have always been taught.

This topic is huge – and I do not have the time or the space to provide you – via e:mail – with the research and background – or a substitute for the research and background you need to do. We have done such reading and study, and it is therefore an informed opinion that we offer on this website. Part of that informed opinion is to note that there are some very different opinions on this topic that exist, and have existed within the body of Christ – and that they are not central core issues over which we must divide – but that they are issues about which we may differ – and many do.

I would recommend that you obtain a copy of the book, Chosen but Free, by Dr. Norman Geisler, published in 1999 by Bethany House. Geisler will give you an introduction to the philosophical differences you must consider to even begin such a discussion – the differences in world views between Calvinism and Arminianism.

All the best with your study of this topic.

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht