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Renat Ilyasov

Do Not Confuse Conversion with Salvation

Renat Ilyasov 2 min read
#Soteriology #Justification #Faith Alone
19 Articles
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Renat Ilyasov
Renat Ilyasov 2 min read
19 articles
What does the Bible say about conversion and salvation?

Conversion is the work of the Holy Spirit, while salvation is accomplished once for all through Christ's sacrifice.

The Bible distinguishes between conversion and salvation, emphasizing that conversion is an ongoing process initiated by the Holy Spirit through the preaching of the gospel. Romans 10:17 states that faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. This highlights the transformative role of the gospel in a believer's life. Conversely, salvation is a definitive act completed once and for all on the cross, where Christ shed His blood for our redemption (Hebrews 9:12). It is the gospel that reveals this finished work, ensuring that believers understand the full scope of their salvation in Christ.

Romans 10:17, Hebrews 9:12

How do we know that salvation is a finished work?

Salvation is confirmed through Christ's atoning work on the cross, fulfilling God's promise.

We know that salvation is a finished work because it was accomplished by Jesus Christ once and for all when He died on the cross. This act was foretold in the Scriptures and serves as the foundation of our faith. Colossians 2:13-14 states that God made us alive together with Christ, having forgiven all our trespasses by canceling the record of debt that stood against us. This underscores the permanence of our salvation, indicating that it is not dependent on our actions but on Christ's completed work. The gospel is pivotal in revealing this truth, ensuring that believers grasp the depth of what has been freely given to them.

Colossians 2:13-14

Why is understanding conversion important for Christians?

Understanding conversion clarifies the role of the Holy Spirit and the necessity of faith in the gospel.

Understanding conversion is crucial for Christians because it outlines the process through which one transitions from spiritual death to life. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is central to this transformation, working in the heart of the believer as they respond to the gospel. This process is vital, as it acknowledges that while salvation is complete in Christ, our experience of it begins with conversion, which is facilitated through faith. Clear understanding helps prevent confusion between being converted and being saved, allowing believers to grasp the fullness of God’s promises as laid out in Scripture. By recognizing the distinct roles of conversion and salvation, Christians can have greater assurance and clarity in their faith journey.

1 Corinthians 2:12

"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 the things that are freely given to us of God". - 1Co. 2:12

    We have received the Spirit, in order that we might know {through belief in the gospel}  𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘰𝘥, i.e. His perfect salvation in Christ Jesus. 

    Please note that knowledge of the things is 𝘯𝘰𝘵 the things themselves. Through faith in the gospel we come to learn or 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 of those things which have been given to us of God, first, before the world began and then, and secondly, "when the fullness of time was come". 

    The gospel is said to be the power of God unto salvation because it tells of Christ and Him crucified, Who 𝘪𝘴 that power of God unto salvation. Hence the gospel as a story is 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 the power of God unto salvation. The gospel does 𝘯𝘰𝘵 create a new reality. It reveals / manifests / brings to light the reality "of those things that are freely given to us of God". 

    Do not confuse conversion with salvation.

    The former occurs through the ministry of the Holy Ghost and the gospel spoken (and heard). 

    The latter 𝘩𝘢𝘴 occurred once and for all time. Upon the cross. Of Calvary. When Christ the Son of the living God did shed His blood for us, according to Scriptures...

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