Salvation is the deliverance from sin and its consequences, accomplished by God through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is not earned by human effort or good works but is received by grace through faith in Christ alone.
Paul clearly explains:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)
Salvation begins with conviction of sin, brought about by the Holy Spirit:
“And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” (John 16:8)
This conviction leads a person to repentance, a turning from sin, and belief in the gospel:
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” (Acts 2:38)
“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)
Salvation includes justification (being declared righteous before God), sanctification (being made holy by God), and ultimately glorification (being perfected in eternity with God).
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1)
“For this is the will of God, your sanctification.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3)
Salvation also involves the new birth, being born again by the Spirit:
“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)
This new birth is a spiritual transformation, making the believer a new creation:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Salvation results in eternal life and adoption into God’s family:
“And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” (1 John 5:11)
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12)
True salvation produces fruit: obedience, holiness, and love for God and others. While works do not save, they are the evidence of a transformed life.
“Faith without works is dead.” (James 2:26)
Salvation is the central promise of the gospel: deliverance from wrath, reconciliation with God, and the hope of eternal glory through Jesus Christ.
