Lesson 21: The Practical Benefits of Union with Christ, Part 2

In Lesson Twenty, we studied three of the practical benefits of union with Christ, each of these the result of the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of the believer. [They were perseverance (the believer will continue in the faith), assurance (the believer is confident that he is saved), and sanctification (the believer progressively grows in godliness).] The Holy Spirit is the source of all practical benefits of union with Christ. The purpose of this lesson is to introduce you to the Bible’s teaching on the nature and work of the Holy Spirit and to examine some additional benefits the believer experiences as a result of His ministry. In this lesson, we will study:

1. The nature of the Holy Spirit [i.e. what the Holy Spirit is like]

2. The work of the Holy Spirit [ i.e. what the Holy Spirit does]

I. The Nature of the Holy Spirit

There are many misconceptions as to the nature of the Holy Spirit. Because of the teachings of some cults and Eastern religions, some have concluded that the Holy Spirit is simply a force or another word for the power of God.

[It's not just cults and pagan religions who have done this. Some so-called Christian denominations deny the trinity (e.g., United Pentecostals). They teach modalism, that is, that God manifests Himself in 3 different ways. This is wrong. Unitarians began by denying the trinity, and are now more or less agnostics.]

The Bible, however, presents two very clear truths about the Holy Spirit’s nature:

A. The Holy Spirit is a person .

1. The Holy Spirit possesses the components of personality.

Lesson One identified three distinct components of personality: thinking (mind), acting (will), and feeling (emotion). The Bible indicates that the Holy Spirit possesses all three.

And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit. - Romans 8:27 [show]Romans 8:27 [27]And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because(1) the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [8:27] Or 'that'

All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.   1 Corinthians 12:11 [show]1 Corinthians 12:11 [11]All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. (ESV)

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God.   Ephesians 4:30 [show]Ephesians 4:30 [30]And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (ESV)

[Remember that the components of personality are intellect, emotion and will.]

2. The Holy Spirit is referred to with masculine personal pronouns.

The Holy Spirit is called “he,” not “it.”

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.   John 16:13 [show]John 16:13 [13]When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (ESV)

[In the KJV, the Holy Spirit is occasionally referred to as “it” (c.f. Rom 8:16 [show]Romans 8:16 [16]The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, (ESV)
). But this is because the Greek word pneuma is a neuter word, which means a pronoun modifying it must also be neuter, hence, “it.” Newer versions render the word “he.” ]

B. The Holy Spirit is God .

1. The Holy Spirit is closely associated with God.

Certain passages associate the Holy Spirit with God the Father and God the Son.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.   Matthew 28:19 [show]Matthew 28:19 [19]Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in(1) the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (ESV) Footnotes 1. [28:19] Or 'into'

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.   2 Corinthians 13:14 [show]2 Corinthians 13:14 [14]The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (ESV)
(See also 1 Peter 1:2 [show]1 Peter 1:2 [2]according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. (ESV)
.)

[In these verses the Holy Spirit is put on equal footing/status with God and Jesus.]

2. The Holy Spirit possesses the attributes of God.

Among these attributes are omnipresence (Psalm 139:7 [show]Psalm 139:7 [7]Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?
), omnipotence (Luke 1:35 [show]Luke 1:35 [35]And the angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born(1) will be called holy--the Son of God. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [1:35] Some manuscripts add 'of you'
), and eternality (Hebrews 9:14 [show]Hebrews 9:14 [14]how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our(1) conscience from dead works to serve the living God. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [9:14] Some manuscripts 'your'
).

3. The Holy Spirit is equated with God.

The Bible sometimes uses the words “God” and “Holy Spirit” interchangeably.

Then Peter said, “You have lied to the Holy Spirit . . . . You have not lied to men but to God.”   Acts 5:3 4 [show]Acts 5:3 [3]But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? (ESV) Acts 5:4 [4]While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God." (ESV)

II. The Work of the Holy Spirit

A. The work of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament

The doctrine of the Holy Spirit is not as fully developed in the Old Testament as in the New. This is due to the fact that the Old Testament emphasized the unity of God in order to counteract the tendency of the people to worship many gods (polytheism). [“poly” means “many.” There are a few indications of the Triunity of God in the OT; the NT is where this doctrine is fully expounded.] This does not mean, however, that there are no references to the Holy Spirit’s work in the Old Testament.

1. The Holy Spirit was active in Creation .

Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters   Genesis 1:2 [show]Genesis 1:2 [2]The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. (ESV)

2. The Holy Spirit gave prophecies and Scripture .

For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.   2 Peter 1:21 [show]2 Peter 1:21 [21]For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (ESV)

3. The Holy Spirit enabled men to perform specific tasks.

The Old Testament frequently refers to the Spirit of God “coming” upon the leaders of Israel to enhance their ability to govern the nation. Since Israel was to be under God’s rule (a theocracy), theologians call this the “ theocratic

anointing .”

So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power.   1 Samuel 16:13 [show]1 Samuel 16:13 [13]Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah. (ESV)

[Note that David was already saved and indwelt (permanently reside within) by the Holy Spirit at this point. This was a special anointing of God for a certain job – to be king.

The Holy Spirit also enabled men to perform other tasks (Exodus 31:1-5 [show]Exodus 31:1-5 Oholiab and Bezalel [31:1]The LORD said to Moses, [2]"See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, [3]and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, [4]to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, [5]in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft. (ESV)
).

4. The Holy Spirit was active in the salvation of men .

Old Testament revelation of the Holy Spirit's work in salvation is sparse. Furthermore, the Old Testament often uses different words to describe salvation than those found in the New Testament. Nevertheless, the Bible indicates that the Holy Spirit was instrumental in the salvation of Old Testament believers in many of the same ways in which He is involved in our salvation today. He regenerated (John 3:3 10 [show]John 3:3 [3]Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again(1) he cannot see the kingdom of God." (ESV) John 3:10 [10]Jesus answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? (ESV) Footnotes 1. [3:3] Or 'from above'; the Greek is purposely ambiguous and can mean both 'again' and 'from above'; also verse 7
) [this context is still part of the OT dispensation], indwelt (Numbers 27:18 [show]Numbers 27:18 [18]So the LORD said to Moses, "Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him. (ESV)
), and guided (Psalm 143:10 [show]Psalm 143:10 [10]Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!
) the Old Testament believer.

Note: Some falsely conclude from David’s words in Psalm 51:11 [show]Psalm 51:11 [11]Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
(”Do not take your Holy Spirit from me.”) that the Holy Spirit did not permanently indwell the Old Testament believer. However, David’s concern is the loss of the Holy Spirit’s theocratic anointing, not the loss of His permanent indwelling.

[Some teach that the Holy Spirit came upon and then left OT believers rather than indwell them permanently as the NT teaches. We believe that He both regenerated and indwelt like He does today. It would be nearly impossible to explain the spirituality of the OT believer without regeneration and indwelling.]

B. The work of the Holy Spirit in the life of Christ

1. Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit.

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.”   Luke 1:34 35 [show]Luke 1:34 [34]And Mary said to the angel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?"(1) (ESV) Luke 1:35 [35]And the angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born(2) will be called holy--the Son of God. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [1:34] Greek 'since I do not know a man' 2. [1:35] Some manuscripts add 'of you'

2. Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit “came upon” Jesus at His baptism. This was the culmination of the Old Testament theocratic anointing, enabling Him to function as the perfect prophet, priest, and king.

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.   Matthew3:16

3. Jesus ministered by the power of the Holy Spirit.

But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. - Matthew 12:28 [show]Matthew 12:28 [28]But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. (ESV)

C. The work of the Holy Spirit in the world

1. The Holy Spirit applies common grace .

The Holy Spirit limits the progress of sin in the world (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 [show]2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 [6]And you know what is restraining him now so that he may be revealed in his time. [7]For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. (ESV)
) and extends God’s goodness to all men (Matthew 5:45 [show]Matthew 5:45 [45]so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. (ESV)
).

[Remember what "common grace" is? It's the fact that God does not allow man to be as sinful as he could be. God restrains sin and allows people do some measure of civic or cultural "good," although this "good" is not meritorious. It’s common because it extends to all men in common.]

2. The Holy Spirit convicts of sin .

When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.   John 16:8 [show]John 16:8 [8]And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: (ESV)

Note: This passage is the climax to a series of statements made by Christ concerning the work of the Holy Spirit through the apostles to produce Scripture. Thus, conviction occurs through the Word of God.

[Note that we tie a subjective, "feeling" type of thing to the Word of God. Conviction should lead to repentance of sin and a changed life, i.e., sanctification. So sanctification/spiritual growth is tied directly to access to the Word of God.

Also, conviction is specifically tied to sin and salvation. The Holy Spirit does not convict about decisions in general. I.e., we should not say that God convicted us about going to a certain college or marrying a certain person. E.g., “I really felt convicted that God wanted me to buy this car.”]

D. The work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the New Testament believer

Below are some additional benefits the Holy Spirit applies to the believer as a result of his union with Christ.

[These are the "practical benefits" mentioned in the title of the lesson.]

1. The Holy Spirit indwells believers.

Believers have a personal and permanent relationship with God through the Holy Spirit’s indwelling. The Holy Spirit’s indwelling occurs at the moment of salvation and continues throughout the believer’s life.

You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.   Romans 8:9 [show]Romans 8:9 [9]You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. (ESV)

[God resides in the believer. Should we expect to "feel" the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit? No. How then do we know that He's there? By faith. We believe what God said.]

2. The Holy Spirit illumines the believer’s mind.

The Holy Spirit teaches the believer the significance of Scripture. This means that He convinces us of our need to obey the Scriptures (see Lesson Six).

But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit  just as it has taught you, remain in him.   1 John 2:20, 27 [show]1 John 2:20 [20]But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.(1) (ESV) 1 John 2:27 [27]But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie--just as it has taught you, abide in him. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [2:20] Some manuscripts 'you know everything'

[We differentiate between the "meaning" and the "significance" of a text. Anyone who can use the language can get the meaning of a text. But only those who are saved can appreciate the significance of a text. Significance has to do with the application of the meaning. The Holy Spirit illuminates our minds to the significance of God’s word.]

Note: The above reference does not imply that one does not need to study the Bible for himself (2 Timothy 2:15 [show]2 Timothy 2:15 [15]Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved,(1) a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [2:15] That is, one approved after being tested
) or be taught biblical truth by others (1 Timothy 3:2 [show]1 Timothy 3:2 [2]Therefore an overseer(1) must be above reproach, the husband of one wife,(2) sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, (ESV) Footnotes 1. [3:2] Or 'bishop'; Greek 'episkopos'; a similar term occurs in verse 1 2. [3:2] Or 'a man of one woman'; also verse 12
). The “anointing” mentioned above is a reference to the Holy Spirit’s work of illumination.

[The anointing is not some extra kick or jolt of power for soul-winning or preaching. It is the ability to understand and apply the Scripture to your life.]

3. The Holy Spirit enables believers to serve the church.

The Holy Spirit gives at least one spiritual gift to each believer for the purpose of ministry in the local church (1 Corinthians 12 [show]1 Corinthians 12 Spiritual Gifts [12:1]Now concerning(1) spiritual gifts,(2) brothers,(3) I do not want you to be uninformed. [2]You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. [3]Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says "Jesus is accursed!" and no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except in the Holy Spirit. [4]Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; [5]and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; [6]and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. [7]To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. [8]For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, [9]to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, [10]to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. [11]All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. One Body with Many Members [12]For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. [13]For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body--Jews or Greeks, slaves(4) or free--and all were made to drink of one Spirit. [14]For the body does not consist of one member but of many. [15]If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body," that would not make it any less a part of the body. [16]And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body," that would not make it any less a part of the body. [17]If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? [18]But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. [19]If all were a single member, where would the body be? [20]As it is, there are many parts,(5) yet one body. [21]The eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you," nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." [22]On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23]and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, [24]which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, [25]that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. [26]If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. [27]Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. [28]And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. [29]Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? [30]Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? [31]But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [12:1] The expression 'Now concerning' introduces a reply to a question in the Corinthians' letter; see 7:1 2. [12:1] Or 'spiritual persons' 3. [12:1] Or 'brothers and sisters' 4. [12:13] Or 'servants'; Greek 'bondservants' 5. [12:20] Or 'members'; also verse 22
).

[There are lots of people today who want to exercise their gifts for the building up of the universal body of Christ. They kind of "free float" without any connection to a church, which is wrong. One is to exercise his gifts in the context of an organized group of believers, i.e., a church.]

Learning to Live It

1. A friend of yours tells you that ever since he trusted Christ he has been praying to receive the Holy Spirit. What should you tell him?

If he has trusted Christ, he already has the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9 [show]Romans 8:9 [9]You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. (ESV)
). One receives the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation. One need not pray to receive him. If one does not have the Holy Spirit, he is not saved.

2. “Church is a human organization. I don’t need to be taught by men  I have the Holy Spirit to teach me.” What is wrong with such thinking?

1. The church is not essentially a human organization. Christ called it “my church.” 2. Christians are commanded to be a part of a local church and serve there. 3. As part of a church, one should be willing to be taught by others. Pastors are set over the flock to teach them. 4. It’s this kind of thinking that leads to heresies and cults. It’s a blatantly inaccurate statement in light of such verses as 1 Timothy 3:2 [show]1 Timothy 3:2 [2]Therefore an overseer(1) must be above reproach, the husband of one wife,(2) sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, (ESV) Footnotes 1. [3:2] Or 'bishop'; Greek 'episkopos'; a similar term occurs in verse 1 2. [3:2] Or 'a man of one woman'; also verse 12

The Holy Spirit does teach us, but He uses the Word of God and the teaching of others as the means whereby He does so. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit’s job is to convince us of the significance of Scripture, not the meaning. It is our job to ascertain the meaning of Scripture via our personal Bible study and the teaching of others.

3. Some people teach that David’s prayer in Psalm 51:11 [show]Psalm 51:11 [11]Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
(”Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.”) is proof that one can lose his salvation. What is wrong with such an interpretation of this verse?

David is not speaking of losing the Holy Spirit’s indwelling, but of losing the Holy Spirit’s theocratic anointing. He is asking God not to do to him that which He did to his predecessor, Saul (1 Samuel 16:1, 13-14 [show]1 Samuel 16:1 David Anointed King [16:1]The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons." (ESV) 1 Samuel 16:13-14 [13]Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah. David in Saul's Service [14]Now the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and a harmful spirit from the LORD tormented him. (ESV)
).

4. A pastor is leading his congregation into some debatable practices. When the deacons question some of his decisions, he responds by quoting 1 Chronicles 16:22 [show]1 Chronicles 16:22 [22]saying, "Touch not my anointed ones, do my prophets no harm!"
(”Do not touch my anointed ones.”). Does this verse teach that the pastor has a special anointing from God?

no, it refers to the king in the theocratic kingdom, not the church. Here is where it is necessary to make a clear distinction between Israel and the church..

Why were men in the Old Testament anointed by the Holy Spirit?

to enable them to lead the theocracy. Those serving in the offices of prophet, priest, or king were anointed.

Who was the last person to receive the theocratic anointing?

Christ

Lesson 20: The Practical Benefits of Union with Christ, Part 1

Union with Christ not only has many positional benefits but several practical benefits as well. [What do we mean by "positional"? A change in status/standing. What were these benefits? Justification (being declared righteous), Adoption (being taken into God's family) and Eternal Security (once saved, always saved.)] Because of his union with Christ, the believer experiences a number of benefits in daily life.

In this lesson, we will study three of the practical benefits of union with Christ:

1. The benefit of perseverance

2. The benefit of assurance

3. The benefit of sanctification

I. The Benefit of Perseverance

Perseverance means that a believer will continue to live as one who is saved. Genuine believers will persevere, or remain committed, in two key areas. These areas serve as two tests of genuine salvation.

A. The doctrinal test: Genuine believers remain committed to the Word of God.

By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.   1 Corinthians 15:2 [show]1 Corinthians 15:2 [2]and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you--unless you believed in vain. (ESV)

But now He has reconciled you . . . if you continue in [the] faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.   Colossians 1:22 23 [show]Colossians 1:22 [22]he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, (ESV) Colossians 1:23 [23]if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation(1) under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [1:23] Or 'to every creature'

Both of these passages stress the need for continual commitment to the gospel. The phrases, “the word” and “the faith,” however, broaden the commitment to include all basic Christian doctrine. A true believer will not reject the gospel nor the major doctrines of the Christian faith (such as the deity of Christ and the inerrancy of Scripture). If one does so, he demonstrates that he is not genuinely saved.

[Is there room for doctrinal disagreement? Yes, up to a point. Can a person not believe exactly like me and still be saved? Yes. Also cf. 1 John 2:19 [show]1 John 2:19 [19]They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us. (ESV)
]]

B. The moral test: Genuine believers remain committed to growth in godliness.

We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. The man who says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him.   1 John 2:3 4 [show]1 John 2:3 [3]And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. (ESV) 1 John 2:4 [4]Whoever says "I know him" but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, (ESV)

Because a genuine believer is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17 [show]2 Corinthians 5:17 [17]Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.(1) The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [5:17] Or 'creature'
), he will change the direction of his life. He will have a desire to grow in the knowledge of God and obey Him. If there is no desire to grow and obey, it may be due to the fact that he is not really saved.

Note: It is possible for genuine believers to temporarily rebel . However, such rebellion is in deed only (rejection of God’s Word is impossible for a true believer). [It is possible for believers to misunderstand or be misled. Thus true believers may be a part of an errant denomination, movement, or group.] Three principles should be noted, however. First, believers who do not grow are the exception rather than the rule . Second, believers who rebel in these areas have no biblical basis for assurance of their salvation (1 John 2:3 4 [show]1 John 2:3 [3]And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. (ESV) 1 John 2:4 [4]Whoever says "I know him" but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, (ESV)
). [That is, such a person has no firm basis on which to be sure they are saved. If there is no evidence of salvation, there is no assurance of it.] Finally, believers who rebel in these areas should anticipate God’s discipline rather than His blessing. Such discipline may be very severe. For example, the members of the Church at Corinth rebelled by disrespecting the Lord’s Supper. As a result, God severely disciplined them.

That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have [died].   1 Corinthians 11:30 [show]1 Corinthians 11:30 [30]That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died.(1) (ESV) Footnotes 1. [11:30] Greek 'have fallen asleep' (as in 15:6, 20)
(See also 1 John 5:16 [show]1 John 5:16 [16]If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God(1) will give him life--to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [5:16] Greek 'he'
.)

II. The Benefit of Assurance

Another practical benefit of being united with Christ is assurance of salvation. Assurance of salvation is the confidence the believer has that he is genuinely saved. [That is, one does not continually doubt it, worry about it, and wonder if he really is saved. He's confident that he is. Assurance is often confused with eternal security. They are like two sides of the same coin. Assurance is the believer's confidence that he is saved. Eternal security is the fact that God keeps the believer saved.] There are three things which God uses to give assurance of salvation. All three of them must be present in the believer’s life in order for him to have a biblical basis for believing that he is saved.

[Explain difference between assurance (a subjective confidence that you are really saved) and eternal security (the fact that one cannot lose his salvation).]

A. The genuine believer believes the promises of God to save and keep him.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.   John 3:16 [show]John 3:16 For God So Loved the World [16]"For God so loved the world,(1) that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [3:16] Or 'For this is how God loved the world'

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. - John 10:28-29 [show]John 10:28-29 [28]I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. [29]My Father, who has given them to me,(1) is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [10:29] Some manuscripts 'What my Father has given to me'

[God has promised to save people and to keep them saved. What would have to be true if God did not keep believers saved? 1. He's not powerful enough; 2. He lied.]

B. The genuine believer will persevere in faith and good works.

Christian assurance is inseparably linked to perseverance. If one who claims to be a Christian does not continue in his commitment to correct doctrine and a life of obedience, he has no biblical basis for believing that he is saved.

[If one is not persevering in faith and good works, can he be confident that he is saved? No, he has no basis to think that he is saved.

What are some evidences (“vital signs”) of salvation? Several are found in 1 John:

1. Walking in the light, i.e., living a godly life (1:5-7)

2. Obeying Christ’s commands (2:3-6)

3. Love for other believers (3:14-17)

4. Orthodox doctrine (correct belief) (4:6)

Those who display such evidences of salvation in their lives have good reason to have confidence that they are truly saved. Those lacking such evidences have no reason to think that they are saved.]

C. The genuine believer receives the Holy Spirit’s inner testimony .

The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.   Romans 8:16 [show]Romans 8:16 [16]The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, (ESV)

Using the Word of God , the Holy Spirit convinces the believer that he is a child of God. He convinces him of the truthfulness of those verses which promise that God will save and keep those who accept Him as Lord and Savior.

[Note that the inner testimony applies specifically to one’s assurance of being saved. It does not apply to other things, like what one should do or where to go, etc. ]

III. The Benefit of Sanctification

Sanctification is the setting apart of the believer by God. It has both a positional and a practical aspect. The positional aspect is the fact that God has set apart all believers from the world and to Himself. [This occurs at the moment of salvation. It is not a sensory/emotional experience.] The practical aspect deals with the continual, progressive change that takes place as the believer matures spiritually.

[Practical sanctification is also known as progressive sanctification. The believer's life should be characterized by continual, progressive growth in godliness. There will be setbacks, but the general tendency will be toward growth.]

A. Sanctification is the work of the Holy Spirit .

God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit. - 2 Thessalonians 2:13 [show]2 Thessalonians 2:13 Stand Firm [13]But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits(1) to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [2:13] Some manuscripts 'chose you from the beginning'

The Holy Spirit changes believers through their knowledge of Scripture (John 17:17 [show]John 17:17 [17]Sanctify them(1) in the truth; your word is truth. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [17:17] Greek 'Set them apart' (for holy service to God)
). Thus, if one is to live a sanctified (holy) life, he must study the Bible, the tool the Holy Spirit uses to help him grow.

[Growth as a Christian is directly tied to Bible study/reading/meditation. The more familiar you become with the Bible, the more biblical you start thinking, and the more biblically you start living. Thus, you can't grow much apart from access to God's Word, both written and proclaimed (preached).]

B. Sanctification involves the believer’s active obedience .

Some people view the Christian life as a series of mystical experiences in which the Holy Spirit “ moves ” them. According to this school of thought, the believer is always passive , waiting for the Spirit to move him to pray, witness, etc. [E.g., some Pentecostal groups just wait for God to "say something" in their meetings.] Though sanctification is the work of the Spirit, God never commands the believer to wait for some “moving.” He simply commands him to live obediently.

Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.   2 Corinthians 7:1 [show]2 Corinthians 7:1 [7:1]Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body(1) and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [7:1] Greek 'flesh'

[Thus, we take an active roll in growth. We don't just wait for it to happen. It takes discipline: Bible study, prayer, rejection of sin, acceptance of responsibilities, etc.]

C. Sanctification involves a change in direction .

Before one comes to Christ, he is a slave to sin. After God saves him, however, his direction in life changes. From that moment on, he separates from wickedness and embraces godliness.

1. The believer separates from wickedness.

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and [Satan]? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?   2 Corinthians 6:14 15 [show]2 Corinthians 6:14 The Temple of the Living God [14]Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? (ESV) 2 Corinthians 6:15 [15]What accord has Christ with Belial?(1) Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? (ESV) Footnotes 1. [6:15] Greek 'Beliar'

The “yoke” in this passage refers to a union between two or more people. A believer has no business uniting with an unbeliever.

[The context of the above verse deals with false teachers. Hence the command applies to contact/interaction/participation with those who hold wrong doctrine. Paul’s not saying we can’t be friends or associates with unbelievers.

Cf. also Eph 5:6-8, 11 [show]Ephesians 5:6-8 [6]Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. [7]Therefore do not become partners with them; [8]for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (ESV) Ephesians 5:11 [11]Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. (ESV)
. Separation has been a key factor in Fundamentalism. Back in the 40's-50’s a group of Evangelicals decided to reject separation in favor of inclusion. These people are called "New Evangelicals." Many of them would agree substantially with us doctrinally, but are out of order when it comes to practice.]

2. The believer embraces godliness.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. - Colossians 3:1 [show]Colossians 3:1 Put On the New Self [3:1]If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (ESV)

D. Sanctification is the natural result of saving faith .

Some people [E.g., Charles Ryrie, Zane Hodges ] teach that a person may trust Christ as Savior at a point in time without an accompanying commitment to obey Him. Such a commitment may come at a later point in time. According to this view, the Christian life is centered around two spiritual “high points”: the time of salvation and the time of dedication . [This allows for two classes of Christians: Those who are not dedicated/committed and those who are.] This separation of dedication from salvation is unbiblical, for the Bible indicates that:

1. Saving faith itself is an act of obedience .

He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.   2 Thessalonians 1:8 [show]2 Thessalonians 1:8 [8]in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. (ESV)

[Cf. also John 3:36 [show]John 3:36 [36]Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. (ESV)
-- "obey" is parallel/synonymous with "believe." Belief is obeying the gospel.]

2. Saving faith is described as obedient faith.

What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.   James 2:14 17 [show]James 2:14 Faith Without Works Is Dead [14]What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? (ESV) James 2:17 [17]So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (ESV)

The question James is asking in this passage is: Can a nonworking faith save? His conclusion is: No! Such a faith is dead. Like empty words, it accomplishes nothing. Commitment to obey Christ cannot be separated from true faith.

[It's necessary to reemphasize that a non-committed Christian is not allowed for in the NT. Discipleship/dedication is assumed to be the normal state of affairs. Commitment is not just for "super" Christians. There is no special category for those who claim to be saved yet have no fruit to indicate they are saved. Those who have no evidence have no assurance, and they may have exactly what James is talking about: "dead" faith (i.e., no faith).]

Note: There are times in the believer’s life when he makes important decisions to dedicate himself more fully to his Savior. In fact, the Christian life is really a day by day, moment by moment process of dedicating oneself to Christ. What is unbiblical is the idea that dedication to Christ is an option for the believer. Faith without dedication is a faith that does not save.

Learning to Live It

1. A friend of yours claims that no one can know for sure that he is saved. Is this true?

No. 1 John 5:11-14 [show]1 John 5:11-14 [11]And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. [12]Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. That You May Know [13]I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life. [14]And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. (ESV)
. Also, the NT authors all knew they were saved and wrote to people as if they could know that they were saved. Further, if one did not know for sure himself that he was saved, why would he ever witness to someone else? Thus there would be no evangelism.

How does God assure His children?

through His promises to keep the believer saved, the believer’s perseverance, and the inner testimony of the Holy Spirit

If this person has good reason to doubt his salvation, what might you conclude?

He may not be saved, or he may have been taught wrong doctrine, or he is mistaken. Never falsely assure someone who may not be saved. No evidence = no assurance.

2. While talking to a Christian friend about his backslidden condition (he no longer attends church, he doesn’t read his Bible, etc.), he replies, “I’m waiting for God to show me what He wants me to do.” What is wrong with your friend’s thinking?

God has already shown him what He wants him to do in His Word. He simply has to start doing that which God has already told him to do. He should not wait for God to “move” him or show him in some special way to obey.

Lesson 19: The Positional Benefits of Union with Christ

Upon being united with Christ through faith and repentance, the believer immediately receives several benefits.

[Remember that union with Christ is another way of referring to salvation. Union with Christ highlights the idea that the benefits of Christ's life and death have been imputed to the believer. Since the relationship between Christ and the believer could be described as a "union," the phrase "union with Christ" is an appropriate synonym for "salvation."]

The benefits of union with Christ, which we will study in the following three lessons, can be divided into two types:

1. The positional benefits

2. The practical benefits

Positional benefits are those blessings which the believer possesses but does not experience . That is, God brings about a change in the believer’s position or status without the believer sensing or perceiving such [i.e., feelings/emotions. The change is real but non-perceptible]. For instance, the Bible states that believers have been adopted by God into His family. A believer does not feel this adoption take place. Nonetheless, he has been legally adopted by God and is now His child.

["Position" has to do with one's standing before God. One's position before salvation is that of being alienated, an enemy, under the wrath of God, etc. At salvation, that position changes. One is forgiven, justified, adopted into God's family, etc. So positional benefits are those benefits one receives because of a change in status/standing. One does not feel or notice or empirically sense this change.]

This lesson will focus on three of the positional benefits of union with Christ:

1. Justification

2. Adoption

3. Eternal Security

[Justification and adoption are things that happen to us; at salvation, we are justified and adopted. They are changes in status/standing/position. Eternal security is a bit different. It is more like a result of salvation than a position, but it is a benefit that results from our new position.]

I. Justification

Justification is the act of God whereby He declares a sinner to be legally righteous and treats him as such. Justification does not mean “to be made righteous” but “to be declared legally righteous.” When one is saved, he does not become righteous; he is still a sinner. Rather, God declares him legally righteous because of his union with Christ.

A. Justification is a work of God .

It is God who justifies.   Romans 8:33 [show]Romans 8:33 [33]Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. (ESV)

B. Justification is by faith .

Know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ.   Galatians 2:16 [show]Galatians 2:16 [16]yet we know that a person is not justified(1) by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [2:16] Or 'counted righteous' (three times in verse 16); also verse 17

["Ideas have consequences." This idea was the cause of the Reformation. Martin Luther was convinced that a man was justified by faith in Christ rather than by obeying the RC church. This is also what sets us apart from all works-oriented religions. They believe man is justified by works. We believe man is justified by grace through faith.]

C. Justification is a result of the believer’s union with Christ.

At the moment of salvation, Christ’s righteousness is imputed to the believer. Consequently, when God looks at him, He does not see his sinfulness; rather, He sees Christ’s righteousness. As a result, God is able to declare him righteous.

God made [Christ Jesus] who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.   2 Corinthians 5:21 [show]2 Corinthians 5:21 [21]For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV)

Through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. - Romans 5:19 [show]Romans 5:19 [19]For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. (ESV)

[So the only righteous we have is that which is given to us at the moment of salvation. The righteousness that we have is Christ's righteousness. Think of it as a bank transaction. Forgiveness takes away your debt and justification gives you a positive balance.]

D. Justification produces a peaceful relationship with God.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.   Romans 5:1 [show]Romans 5:1 Peace with God Through Faith [5:1]Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we(1) have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [5:1] Some manuscripts 'let us'

[Before salvation, the opposite was true; we were enemies of God. This is also called reconciliation – the restoration of a positive relationship.]

II. Adoption

Adoption is the legal placement of someone into a family as a son . At the moment of salvation, God places you into His family and gives you all the rights and privileges of a son; God is your legal Father.

[Like justification, adoption is a legal or judicial concept. Whose family is one in before salvation? Satan's. This is contra the liberal idea of the "universal Fatherhood of God and the universal brotherhood of man." E.g., the song "Let There Be Peace on Earth" -- ". . . with God as our Father, brothers all are we." Hogwash.]

A. Adoption is the work of God .

In love [God] predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.   Ephesians 1:4 5 [show]Ephesians 1:4 [4]even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love (ESV) Ephesians 1:5 [5]he predestined us(1) for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, (ESV) Footnotes 1. [1:5] Or 'before him in love, having predestined us'

B. Adoption is by faith .

You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.   Galatians 3:26 [show]Galatians 3:26 [26]for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. (ESV)

C. Adoption is a result of the believer’s union with Christ.

You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.   Galatians 3:26 27 [show]Galatians 3:26 [26]for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. (ESV) Galatians 3:27 [27]For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (ESV)

Note: To be baptized or immersed into Christ is another way of describing union with Him.

[How is baptism comparable to our relationship with Christ? In baptism/immersion, one is engulfed, totally covered by the water. When one accepts Christ, he is totally committed to Him, it's a total, radical life change that "covers" every aspect of life.]

D. Adoption has practical results.

1. The leading of the Holy Spirit

Because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.   Romans 8:14 [show]Romans 8:14 [14]For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons(1) of God. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [8:14] See discussion on "sons" in the preface

One of the results of being an adopted son of God is the Holy Spirit’s leading. Using the Word of God , the Holy Spirit leads or guides the child of God.

[To be led by the Holy Spirit is not some sort of mystical sensation, hunch, or feeling that you ought to do something. Practically speaking, it is merely submitting to the Word of God. To be led is to be controlled, and being controlled is simple obedience. Note also that the Spirit of God will never lead someone contrary to the Word of God (contra being "slain in the Spirit"). If you want the Holy Spirit's leading in your life, you've got to get the Bible in your life.]

2. Loving discipline by God the Father

And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.” Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?   Hebrews 12:5 7 [show]Hebrews 12:5 [5]And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. Hebrews 12:7 [7]It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? (ESV)

God does not punish believers as He does unbelievers. Rather, He disciplines believers out of love, desiring to do what is best for them. His goal for us is not necessarily happiness and prosperity , but Christ-likeness . He disciplines us with that goal in mind.

[What if one is disobedient and receives no chastening/discipline? C.f. Heb 12:8 [show]Hebrews 12:8 [8]If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. (ESV)
. It’s an evidence that one is not part of the family. Contra the health and wealth gospel.]

III. Eternal Security

Eternal security refers to the fact that all true believers are kept saved by God. A true believer cannot lose his salvation.

[Don’t confuse eternal security with assurance of salvation.]

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.   Philippians 1:6 [show]Philippians 1:6 [6]And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (ESV)

A. Eternal security is a work of God .

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.   John 10:28 29 [show]John 10:28 [28]I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. (ESV) John 10:29 [29]My Father, who has given them to me,(1) is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. (ESV) Footnotes 1. [10:29] Some manuscripts 'What my Father has given to me'

B. Eternal security is a result of the believer’s union with Christ.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.   Romans 8:1 [show]Romans 8:1 Life in the Spirit [8:1]There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.(1) (ESV) Footnotes 1. [8:1] Some manuscripts add 'who walk not according to the flesh (but according to the Spirit)'

Note: To be “in Christ” is another way of describing union with Him.

C. Eternal security is God’s will for all believers.

And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me.   John 6:39 [show]John 6:39 [39]And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. (ESV)

[What are some of the things that would have to be true if eternal security were not true? 1. God was unwilling to keep us saved; 2. God was unable to keep us saved; 3. God was wrong when he elected us; 4. God has to throw us out of his family; 5. God has to take back the righteousness He imputed to us; etc, etc, etc. Obviously, it is impossible to undo salvation.]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. Justification is a positional benefit of union with Christ. Justification is the act of God whereby He declares a sinner to be legally righteous and treats him as such.

2. Adoption is a positional benefit of union with Christ. Adoption is the act of God whereby He legally places the believer into His family, giving him all the rights and privileges of a son.

3. Eternal security is a positional benefit of union with Christ. Eternal security is the work of God whereby He keeps saved those whom He has already saved.

Learning to Live It

11

1. During a conversation at school, a Catholic friend says to you that a person is made righteous by following Christ and the teachings of the church. Are sinners ever made righteous?

No, sinners are not “made” righteous; they don’t suddenly become sinless. They are “declared” righteous because of the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to them.

Can sinners follow Christ?

no (They are unable and unwilling.)

Is one justified by following the teachings of a church?

no, unless that church teaches the gospel. (One is justified by faith in Christ alone.)

2. During a conversation with a friend, you find out that he claims to be a Christian but does not believe in eternal security. In fact, he says that he was saved, lost his salvation, and then was saved again. What should you say to him?

A Christian cannot lose his salvation because God says so in His Word (John 6:39, 10 [show]John 6:39 [39]And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. (ESV) John 6:10 [10]Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. (ESV)
:28-29, and Philippians 1:6 [show]Philippians 1:6 [6]And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (ESV)
). Furthermore, to claim one can lose his salvation is either to call God a liar (He doesn’t do what He promises.) or to imply that He is not omnipotent (He is unable to do that which He has promised to do.). Further, I would question the validity of any salvation that could be lost. The friend has not truly understood the person and work of Christ or the positional changes that occur at salvation, and may not really be saved.

What are those who believe one can lose his salvation really trusting in? Their own power/good works/ability. If so, are they really trusting Christ? No. Of course, they could just be mistaken because they were taught wrong. That is, they really are saved, but have not been taught correctly on this matter.