Page 137 - Bible Doctrines II w videos short

What Does not Save A Person? Many things are listed in Scripture as unable to save a person. Some
are then deduced through theological reasoning. Below we shall briefly list five things that do not save a
person.

1. Going to Church. Believers are told not to forsake the gathering of themselves together. This is not
however a condition of salvation. The Bible is clear that faith alone, in Christ’s death and
resurrection on our behalf saves humans.
2. Good Works. The Bible could not be clearer that good works do not have any role in our salvation
(Eph. 2:8-9; Rom. 4:5).
3. Performing Miracles. False prophets can perform miracles and exorcisms. This does not prove they
are from God or are saved. Matthew 7:15-23 makes it clear that false prophets call upon their
miraculous works and exorcisms to validate their case before God. He says, “I never knew you.”
4. Abstaining or Fasting. Some believe a life of asceticism will make God accept them. Jesus is clear
that faith alone is what will gain a person the life of God (John 1:12; 3:16; 20:31).
5. Theology. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees in John 5:39-40 that “You search the Scriptures because you
think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to
come to me that you may have life.” A person can study God’s Word for a lifetime and miss the life
of God through Jesus if they do not believe in Jesus.

None of these things can gain a person eternal life. As we will see, faith alone is the only acceptable
condition for salvation.

20.4 Let’s Practice this Lesson. . .

1. Why does mankind need salvation?

2. List any beings other than humans, that we know of, that can be saved through Jesus blood:

3. What is the future of all fallen angels and Satan?

4. What happens to animals who die?

5. Explain how a person can commit the unpardonable sin in this current day:

6. What is the only condition for receiving salvation?

20.5 Let’s Personalize this Lesson…

Activity: Make a list of the things some people believe you have to do to be saved. Then develop
an answer for each one. Try to find a specific verse that shows this is not true. This will help you
greatly in your future ministry.

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