The assurance of salvation is not based on feelings or personal opinion but on the promises of God’s Word and the evidence of a changed life. A true believer can know they are saved by examining their faith, obedience, and the witness of the Holy Spirit.
John wrote so that believers would have confidence:
“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13)
Salvation is grounded in faith in Jesus Christ alone:
“Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God.” (1 John 5:1)
But genuine faith produces visible fruit. A saved person will show a pattern of obedience to God’s commandments:
“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” (1 John 2:3)
While no believer is perfect, there should be evidence of repentance, growing holiness, and a love for God and His people:
“We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren.” (1 John 3:14)
“Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:3)
The Holy Spirit also confirms our salvation inwardly:
“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” (Romans 8:16)
Assurance is not about never doubting but about resting in God’s promises, walking in obedience, and trusting the finished work of Christ:
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life… and has passed from death into life.” (John 5:24)
“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it.” (Philippians 1:6)
If you have trusted in Christ, repented of sin, and continue in faith and obedience, you can be confident in your salvation, not because of your strength, but because of His.