Category: Bible

Debunking “Once-Saved, Always Saved”

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This doctrine teaches that salvation can never be lost, despite the lifestyle you lead or the actions you take–even if it means denying Jesus and turning your back on Him. This view is based on Romans 8 and John 10 which in summary state that nothing can separate us from the love of God, and that Jesus’ sheep have eternal life and no one can pluck them out of His hand.

For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.  And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified…neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.ROMANS 8:29-30,39

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will 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

This belief also affirms the emphasis on the perseverance of the saints, which means that any true believer will not choose to turn away from the Lord. Therefore, if anyone chooses to walk away from the Lord, it signifies they were never truly saved. The basis for that teaching is found in 1 John 2, which states that those who left the church were never really a part of it.

They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.1 JOHN 2:19

This theological stance is very controversial amongst Christians. There are well-respected theologians and pastors on both sides of this issue. I also have dear friends who differ from me on this topic. 

What The Bible Teaches
1. The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace, not by works. 

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.EPHESIANS 2:8

We are not saved by doing good works and we don’t maintain our salvation by doing good works. God’s divine grace saves and sustains us. The grace of God saves but it also teaches us to deny sin. 

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.TITUS 2:11,12

Paul, the grace teacher, writes that while we are not saved by good works we are saved to do good works.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.EPHESIANS 2:10

2. Born-again believers have an assurance of their salvation.

Having an assurance of salvation is different from having evidence of salvation. The evidence of salvation is manifested through changes in a person’s conduct and character. The new birth produces a new nature which results in a new lifestyle. We are confident that we are saved based on the promises of God, not on our subjective experience, feelings, or moods at any given time. We shouldn’t live in fear and doubt about the certainty of our salvation! We see in 1 John 5, that those who have the Son have eternal life. Believing in Jesus guarantees us eternal life. 

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.1 JOHN 5:11-13

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

3. There is plenty of evidence that suggests that it’s possible for believers to willfully turn away from their faith in Jesus Christ.

God gives us the choice to accept Him or reject Him. It’s evident in the words: “whoever believes” found in John 3:16. But, we don’t lose our free will once we surrender to the preaching of the Gospel and to the Holy Spirit who leads us to repent and turn to Christ. Salvation is not an irreversible decision! Giving your life to Christ is not like joining a Colombian cartel with no chance of getting out. You can renounce your citizenship if you live in the USA. If you’re married you can break the covenant of marriage with your spouse. I am not saying that you would want to renounce your salvation, but you can. You’re not trapped. 

We need to remember that the New Testament letters were written to Christians who trusted in God’s grace and salvation through Christ Jesus. Here are a few verses that suggest that genuine believers can willfully turn away from their faith and forfeit their salvation. 

“It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they FALL AWAY, to be brought back to repentance, because to THEIR LOSS they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.”HEBREWS 6:4-6

The epistle of Hebrews was written to Jewish believers who had put their faith in Jesus Christ as their Messiah and Savior. They came under pressure and persecution to return to the synagogue and the Jewish religion. During this, some capitulated and turned away from Christ. They returned to Judaism which refutes the Gospel’s message of salvation–redemption exclusively through faith in Christ’s sacrifice of blood on the cross. This passage especially speaks to them. 

They had:

• Once been enlightened by the gospel.

• Tasted the heavenly gift of eternal life.

• Tasted the good Word of God about New Covenant truths.

• Tasted the powers of the age to come–the future kingdom age when Christ returns.

• Been partakers of the Holy Spirit.

But now, they had fallen away, having been pressured to return to Judaism by denying Christ Jesus. They had fallen away by apostasy, renouncing their faith in Christ. They put Him to open shame. It was a recantation or desertion, and once they did that, it was impossible to renew themselves again to repentance. No matter how much you try to bend these verses, it’s pretty clear here that it’s talking about believers. 

“Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will DEPART from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.” 1 TIMOTHY 4:1

You can’t depart from the faith if you were never in the faith. And, we know that some will depart in the last days. If you don’t believe this to be true, look up how many notable Christians have left the Christian faith, renounced their belief in Jesus Christ, and became atheists just in the last 10 years. To say that they were never believers would be a huge stretch and to say that they are still saved after disclaiming their faith would be a greater stretch. 

“Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will TURN AWAY from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.”MATTHEW 24:9-13

It was Jesus who said that when times get hard people will turn away from their faith. This was evident during the persecution in the communist Soviet Union. The Soviet police would offer to spare your life if you would openly deny Christianity and report your Christian brothers to the communist party. Even to this day, the Chinese and other communist governments persecute Christian believers in the same way. 

If you can remain saved after denying Jesus, then why did Jesus ask us to stand firm until the end? 

“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation– IF indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.”COLOSSIANS 1:21-23

Did you see the word if in Paul’s statement? According to this verse, we are to continue in our faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. Some, however, decide willingly to depart from the faith, which is why Paul addressed the conditional phrase if, following the truth about our reconciliation by Christ’s physical body.

“…But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either. Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in His kindness. Otherwise, you also will be CUT OFF.”ROMANS 11:20-22

Using the example of the Israelite nation and how they were cut off due to unbelief, Paul argues that we, non-Jews, are saved by faith and we should continue in His kindness or else we will be cut off as well. Why warn about the possibility if it’s not possible for believers to be cut off? 

“See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that TURNS AWAY from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.”HEBREWS 3:12-14

The writer of Hebrews addresses brothers who might harbor sinful, unbelieving hearts that may turn away from the living God. Once again, he affirms that we share and enjoy security in Christ if we hold firmly until the end. 

“Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, HOLDING ON to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith. Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.”1 TIMOTHY 1:18-20

Paul is talking about two believers who have shipwrecked their faith. Faith is like a ship that gets us from point A to point B, but that ship can be wrecked. Do you remember the Titanic? You can choose to jump off the ship if you want to, but it’s better to stay in the lifeboat. 

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. IF a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is THROWN AWAY and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into THE FIRE and burned.”JOHN 15:1-6

An alternate translation of the second verse (the Passion translation) is that He lifts up every branch that is barren. The branches He throws away in verse 6 are those that don’t abide in the vine. Someone can try to use logic with this illustration and say: well branches can’t possibly choose to not abide, but according to Jesus, it is possible. Verse 5 says that we, human beings with free will, are the branches. We can’t use human logic to try and explain spiritual truths. We have to let the Word of God educate our understanding, not let our understanding try to educate God’s Word. 

“You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.”GALATIANS 5:4

The word “estranged” means “separated” and “alienated.” This verse teaches that the one who attempts to justify himself by the law of Moses has become separated from Christ and has lost the benefits of Christ’s grace, which includes salvation. 

“Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.”JAMES 5:19-20

This starts with the word “brethren,” so we can know that this was written to saved Christians. James then continues, “If anyone among you,” signifying that this statement is regarding other Christians. He stated that a Christian can wander from the truth! He also said that if a faithful, Christian servant were to turn a backslidden Christian back to God, he would be bringing back a child of God who was classified as a lost sinner. And what does the text say that this faithful believer would do? He would SAVE A SOUL FROM DEATH! James was not referring to physical death here; rather, he was referring to spiritual death! So, here’s a good question for those who subscribe to the “Once Saved, Always Saved” theory: 

How can we save another Christian’s soul from death (eternal separation from God), if at one point that person was considered saved and assumed to always be saved?

4.  John Wesley who summarized the “once saved, always saved” teaching infers or presumes that somehow:
  • No virgin’s lamp can go out…(Matthew 25:8)
  • No promising harvest can be choked with thorns…(Matthew 13:7)
  • No branch in Christ can ever be cut off for not abiding…(John 15:6)
  • No forgiveness can ever be forfeited… (Matthew 18:32)
  • No name can be blotted out of God’s book…(Revelation 3:5; Exodus 32:33)
  • No salt can ever lose its flavor…(Matthew 5:13)

“Once Saved, Always Saved,” says that nobody can ever:

  • “Receive the grace of God in vain”… (2 Corinthians 6:1)
  • “Bury [their] talents”…(Matthew 25:18)
  • “Neglect such great salvation”… (Hebrews 2:3)
  • “Look back” after putting [their] hand to the plow… (Luke 9:62)
  • Nor “deny the Lord that bought them” and “brings upon themselves swift destruction” (2 Peter 2:1)
  • Nobody, or body of believers, can ever get so lukewarm that Jesus will spew them out of His mouth… (Revelation 3:16)

“Once Saved, Always Saved” will argue that: 

  • If you are lost, you were never found (John 17:12)
  • If one falls, he was never standing (Romans 11:16-22; Hebrews 6:4-6)
  • If one was ever “cast forth,” he was never in, and “if one ever withered,” he was never attached to the vine and once green (John 15:1-6)
  • “If any man draws back,” proves that he never had anything to draw back from (Hebrews 10:38,39)
  • If one ever “falls away into spiritual darkness,” he was never enlightened (Hebrews 6:4-6)
  • If you “again get entangled in the pollution of the world,” it shows that you never escaped (2 Peter 2:20)
  • If you “put salvation away” you never truly had it (Hebrews 10:35; Psalms 51:11)
  • If you make a shipwreck of your faith, there was no ship of faith there, to begin with!! (1 Timothy 1:19)
5. 1 John 2 which deals with antichrists, not backsliders, is used to argue that if you “lost” your salvation, it means you never had it. 

“Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour. 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 they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us.”1 JOHN 2:18-19

It’s true that there are false conversions of people who are carrying the spirit of the antichrist. It is also true that when the sower sowed a seed only 1 out of 4 types of soils produced a good harvest. 

Not everyone who comes to the front of the church or raises their hand to pray the sinner’s prayer is born again. But to say that every person who walks away from Christ is an antichrist and was never saved is a huge stretch. Plenty of verses we covered already prove otherwise. 

6. The logic of “once saved, always saved” is very flawed at best.

For example, they say, “once you are born again, you can’t be unborn” and therefore you can’t lose your salvation. But there are many spirit beings who were once children of God. For instance, there were angelic beings like Lucifer and the others who took part in his rebellion and are now outside of God’s family. The Bible often uses the picture of a family and marriage to illustrate the spiritual reality of belonging to God. But, everyone knows that you can disown your own family, and even divorce your spouse.

Another logical reasoning is that salvation is eternal, but if you can lose it then it means salvation is only temporary. As I mentioned before, nowhere does the Bible hint that it is impossible to renounce or forfeit our salvation once we have received it. The Scriptures are clear–a believer can backslide, a coin can get lost, sheep can go astray, and a son can become prodigal. A backslider is on dangerous ground and needs to be challenged to repentance, lest his backsliding leads to apostasy. We can also consider Judas Iscariot, who was a part of the inner circle of Jesus but ended up betraying Him and committing suicide.  

7. Christians can’t lose their salvation but they can willfully choose to forfeit their salvation by walking away from the Lord. 

We are convinced that true believers will enjoy the assurance of their salvation. We need not be afraid of losing our salvation like a wallet dropping from a pocket in a careless moment. The Scriptures assure us as believers of God’s provision and of the sustaining power of His Holy Spirit. Acknowledging that there is a real danger in backsliding and that we are able to abandon our salvation, does not mean that we should live in continual fear of doing the unthinkable.

For instance, a passenger flying on a plane is guaranteed to reach his destination. They will arrive at their destination safely unless they choose to do something crazy like open the cabin door and jump out. Forfeiting salvation is like jumping out of an airplane.

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. They shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.”JOHN 10:27

The very promise that is argued in favor of “eternal security” is not unconditional but conditional! Those who are given the promise of eternal life are those who “hear His voice and follow.” Indeed, no one can snatch them out of Jesus’ hand, but they themselves can place themselves outside of His hand.

8. Christians don’t lose their salvation by struggling with temptation and sin but by practicing lawlessness.

There is a huge difference here between struggling with sin and living in sin. 

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER knew you; depart from Me, you who PRACTICE lawlessness!’“MATTHEW 7:21-23

Here, Jesus refers to evildoers whom He never knew; they are not among those who got saved and then walked away from Him. They were never saved. Look at their state: they practice lawlessness. Practice is what our church’s worship team does to get better at singing. When you practice something, you desire to get better at doing it.

“If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are AGAIN entangled in it and overcome, they are WORSE off at the end than they were at the beginning. It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them.”2 PETER 2:20-21

If a believer continually, deliberately, willfully, and knowingly practices living a sinful lifestyle, they place themselves on ‘dangerous ground’. 

“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of JUDGMENT and of raging FIRE that will consume the enemies of God. Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace?” HEBREWS 10:26-31

9. If a Christian can lose their salvation, that means that the Holy Spirit can be taken away. 

God took His Spirit away from king Saul, even though Saul, in the beginning, was counted among the prophets, prophesied, and spoke in tongues (see 1 Kings 10:9-13 & 16:14). Another Scripture points out that King David, in repentance, cried out to God to not take His Spirit from him. 

Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.PSALMS 51:11

Paul writes in Ephesians 1 that after we believed in Christ, God sealed us “with that Holy Spirit of promise.”  

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise. The Spirit is God’s guarantee that He will give us the inheritance He promised and that He has purchased us to be His own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him.EPHESIANS 1:13,14

The word “sealed” does not mean to be stuck in or sealed inside. It means to be “marked” or stamped with a private signet indicating ownership. But Paul also writes in Ephesians,

“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”EPHESIANS 4:30

Final Thought: 

The Scriptures consistently teach us that man has the power of freely choosing between life and death, and God will never violate that power. A true believer can willfully choose to apostatize, reject God’s grace, and forfeit their salvation. We are safe and secure in Jesus but, if we ultimately reject Him, we forfeit our secure standing in Him. Nonetheless, we can rest assured that God’s grace, which saved us in the first place, is ever-present to warn, check, encourage, and sustain us.

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*** By Vladimir Savchuk Ministries / Photo by El Jusuf at Pexels

The Ten Commandments, More Than Rules: Heart-Level Sin, and God’s Transforming Grace

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The Ten Commandments are widely recognized as the moral foundation of Scripture. Most people can recite them by heart, and many glance at them and think, “I’ve never done that, so I’m fine.” But there is a serious danger in this superficial reading. Too often, people look only at the headline of each commandment — “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not commit adultery” — and assume that outward obedience is enough. They fail to realize that each commandment carries a range of subcategories and heart-level sins that God examines closely.

For example, a person might say, “I have never murdered anyone,” yet harbor hatred, anger, or revenge in their heart — all of which fall under the same command in God’s eyes (Matthew 5:21–22; 1 John 3:15). Another might think, “I’ve never committed adultery,” yet struggle with lust, pornography, or emotional affairs. Many people overlook that the commandments are not simply legalistic rules about behavior, but mirrors revealing the inner life, including thoughts, desires, and attitudes.

God gave the Ten Commandments to show the depth of human sin and the impossibility of self-righteousness. They are meant to reveal that obedience is not just about outward compliance, but about loyalty, purity, integrity, and contentment in the heart. This study presents the Ten Commandments along with their attached attitudes and sins, helping us understand the full scope of what God requires. When read in this way, the Law becomes a lens into the human soul — exposing pride, idolatry, envy, lust, and more — and showing why Scripture declares, “None is righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10).

The Ten Commandments can be found in Exodus 20:2-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. The breakdown follows below:

1) YOU SHALL HAVE NO OTHER GODS BEFORE ME

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Idolatry (putting anything above God — money, power, status)

– Atheism / practical unbelief

– Occult practices

– Trusting in self instead of God

– Loving anything more than God

This command is about ultimate loyalty and allegiance. God demands that He alone occupies the throne of our hearts, because what we trust, love, or fear ultimately controls our actions. Anything we rely on for security, identity, or purpose — wealth, status, relationships, personal ability — can become an idol. Matthew 6:24 states, “You cannot serve God and money,” emphasizing that divided loyalty violates the Law.

Practical unbelief — planning without God, relying solely on human ability, or refusing to seek divine guidance — is hidden idolatry. Even love for family or career can become a rival god if it displaces devotion to God. Occult practices or spiritual manipulation are external manifestations of placing power, knowledge, or control above Him. The command reveals that obedience is not just outward compliance, but total devotion of the heart.

2) YOU SHALL NOT MAKE IDOLS

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Worshiping images or objects

– Creating a false idea of God to suit oneself

– Superstition

– Manipulating religion for personal control

– Reducing God to something manageable

This command addresses how we think about God. Beyond literal idols, humans have a natural tendency to shrink or distort God’s character to fit comfort, convenience, or personal preference. Romans 1:23 warns of exchanging “the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man.”

Modern idolatry often involves conceptual idols: a God who never disciplines, never challenges, or only exists to satisfy desires. Superstition, rituals divorced from understanding, or manipulative religious practices also reflect attempts to control or contain God. True worship demands submission to God as He reveals Himself, not to a reduced or convenient image.

3) YOU SHALL NOT TAKE THE LORD’S NAME IN VAIN

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Blasphemy

– False oaths

– Using God’s name casually or irreverently

– Hypocrisy (claiming God’s name but living contrary to Him)

– Claiming “God told me” falsely

Taking God’s name in vain addresses the integrity of both speech and life. Misusing God’s name is more than swearing; it includes claiming His guidance falsely, manipulating others under His authority, or living contrary to His character. Titus 1:16 says, “They profess to know God, but by their works they deny Him.” Hypocrisy — claiming devotion while acting selfishly — dishonors God’s name. This command teaches that true obedience aligns both words and actions with God’s holiness.

4) REMEMBER THE SABBATH DAY

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Neglecting worship

– Refusing rest out of greed or pride

– Treating holy things casually

– Workaholism that replaces trust in God

– Failing to allow others rest

The Sabbath command teaches dependence and worship. Exodus 20:8–11 emphasizes rest after six days of labor; Deuteronomy 5:12–15 links it to redemption from slavery. Refusing rest, neglecting worship, or working obsessively reflects pride and self-reliance, implying that provision and meaning are found in ourselves, not God. Hebrews 4 shows the ultimate spiritual rest is in Christ, pointing to God’s sufficiency rather than human effort. Observing the Sabbath rightly nurtures trust, rhythm, and spiritual health.

5) HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Disrespect

– Rebellion (especially in youth)

– Neglecting parents in old age

– Disobedience to rightful authority

– Contempt for family structure

Honouring parents promotes respect for God-ordained authority and healthy relationships. Disobedience, neglect, or contempt reflects pride and selfishness. Caring for parents in weakness mirrors God’s care for humanity. Jesus rebuked those who used religious loopholes to avoid parental responsibility (Mark 7:9–13), demonstrating that honoring parents is both relational and spiritual, shaping character, humility, and community stability.

6) YOU SHALL NOT MURDER

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Hatred

– Anger

– Bitterness

– Revenge

– Violence

– Abuse

– Dehumanising others

– Encouraging self-harm in others

Murder begins in the heart. Matthew 5:21–22 teaches that anger and contempt violate the command against murder. 1 John 3:15 states, “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer.” Hatred corrodes relationships, dehumanizes others, and harms one’s own soul. Revenge and emotional abuse perpetuate cycles of sin even without physical violence. This command shows that God judges intention and attitude, not just outward acts.

7) YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Lust

– Pornography

– Emotional affairs

– Sexual immorality outside marriage

– Betrayal of marital covenant

– Flirtation with intent

Adultery starts in the mind. Matthew 5:27–28 clarifies that lustful intent is adultery in the heart. Emotional or fantasy-based infidelity, pornography, or flirtation betrays covenant faithfulness without physical action. God calls for purity of thought, affection, and body. This command protects the trust, intimacy, and sanctity of marital relationships, showing that internal sin has external consequences.

8) YOU SHALL NOT STEAL

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Fraud

– Cheating

– Exploitation

– Withholding fair wages

– Plagiarism

– Tax evasion

– Wasting others’ resources

Stealing is not only the taking of physical property. James 5:4 condemns withholding fair wages. Theft includes exploitation, deception, and misuse of others’ resources, credit, or time. It reflects greed and lack of trust in God’s provision. The command teaches fairness, justice, and respect for the rights and work of others, highlighting the moral and relational dimensions of integrity.

9) YOU SHALL NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Lying

– Gossip

– Slander

– False accusations

– Perjury

– Half-truths meant to deceive

– Damaging reputations

Truthfulness is foundational for trust, justice, and healthy community. Proverbs 6:16–19 includes a false witness among things the Lord hates. Lies, gossip, and slander harm others’ reputations and relationships. Even subtle half-truths or exaggerations can mislead and cause damage. This command demands honesty in speech, protection of others’ dignity, and alignment with God’s character as a God of truth.

10) YOU SHALL NOT COVET

Attached attitudes & sins:

– Envy

– Jealousy

– Greed

– Materialism

– Discontentment

– Resentment of others’ blessings

– Comparison-driven unhappiness

Coveting exposes internal sin. Romans 7:7 shows Paul recognizing sin through this command. Coveting says, “I am insufficient; God has been unfair.” This desire fuels theft, adultery, deception, and relational harm. Coveting is invisible but powerful, creating dissatisfaction, discontent, and envy. God judges desire itself, and this command calls for contentment, gratitude, and trust in His provision.

Conclusion

When we look beyond the headlines, the Ten Commandments reveal the pervasive nature of sin in thought, motive, and desire. They show that sin is not limited to external actions but begins in the heart — in hidden pride, jealousy, lust, anger, greed, and resentment. Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” The Law exposes our inability to achieve righteousness through outward compliance alone.

This deeper understanding should humble us, confronting any illusions of moral superiority. By recognizing the subcategories attached to each commandment, we see that what appears “small” or “private” in the heart is still accountable before God. The commandments are not a checklist for self-congratulation; they are mirrors meant to reveal our need for God’s grace.

Only when we acknowledge the full weight of the Law — its reach into our attitudes, desires, and intentions — can we appreciate the mercy and transformative power of God. The Ten Commandments guide us beyond mere rule-keeping, pointing to humility, repentance, and a heart fully devoted to God, and showing us that true righteousness comes from Him, not from ourselves.

Yet there is hope in Jesus Christ. When we accept Him, God gives us a new heart and new values, and fills us with the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in alignment with His commands, transforms our desires, and enables genuine love for God and others. Ezekiel 36:26 declares, “I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you,” and 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” Through Christ, the commandments are no longer merely a mirror of our sin — they become a guide to life transformed by God’s grace and Spirit.

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** Photo by Joshimer Biñas at Pexels

Unshakeable Faith is Essential in a Wavering World

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Standing on the solid rock of faith means holding firmly to God’s Word while also being open to learning and growing in our understanding of it. Today, we are commonly told to keep an open mind about our beliefs and how we interpret the Word of God. Many people are encouraged to avoid being dogmatic, leading some to cherry-pick Scriptures or change their meanings altogether. This practice often involves using the Bible only when its teachings align with personal preferences or the expectations of the audience. Such a liberal view distorts the integrity of God’s Word—if you don’t like it, change it! What use is the Word of God if it can be altered? How can we have faith in truth if truth is seen as variable?

The Word of God is meant to assure us of both God’s nature and our future in Him. If we maintain an open mind to the point of compromising its teachings, we risk dismissing Christ’s promises and missing out on the fullness of what He guarantees. True Christians do not keep an open mind when it comes to God’s Word; you either believe it or you don’t. You cannot sit on the fence. The journey of faith requires a foundation rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.

How many of you would board a plane knowing that the pilot was going to keep an open mind about the destination? Well just as a pilot must navigate their course with precision, they cannot afford to be liberal or selective about the path they choose to reach their destination. Each decision made in the cockpit matters greatly; even small adjustments can have significant consequences for the journey, and so it is with God’s Word. We are invited to align our lives with God’s truth, but this does not mean altering His Word to fit our preferences. His truth remains constant, and our understanding should deepen without compromising Scripture’s principles. Faith demands humility; there is always more to discover in the Bible.

As Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:2, we are called to be faithful to the truth that has been entrusted to us. Our belief in Christ Jesus is our sure foundation—He is the rock upon which we stand and the anchor of hope for our blood-bought souls. Psalm 18:2 describes Him as the everlasting rock for those who fear and esteem Him, a steadfast refuge in times of trouble. There’s nothing wishy-washy about Jesus or His Word. He is the Word made flesh who dwelt among us and our soon-coming King, to whom every knee will bow and confess He is Lord.

Times may change, and people’s views may shift, but God remains the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His promises provide a firm foundation amidst a world of uncertainty.

Being open does not mean abandoning core beliefs. Instead, it helps us build a stronger foundation based on God’s eternal Word while remaining teachable. The Bible encourages us to think deeply about Scripture and to stay receptive to what God may reveal each day. This isn’t about changing God’s Word; it’s about allowing it to transform us. Our foundation is solid because it rests on God’s promises and truth.

As James 1:6-8 warns, we should not be double-minded in our faith, for such uncertainty leads to instability. We are called to take every thought captive to obey Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 10:5. Faith is not about rigidity; it’s about standing confidently on God’s promises, knowing His Word gives us a firm foundation. While we can be sure of what we believe, we should also allow God to enrich that understanding over time.

Let this balance between a solid foundation and an open heart inspire you today. Stand firm on the rock of God’s Word, knowing that you are both grounded and growing—rooted in unchanging truth yet open to the richness of God’s wisdom and grace as He reveals it, because God Himself backs it up.

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**Excerpt based on Reinhard Bonnke’s book, “Faith: The Link with God’s Power.” / Photo by Pixabay at Pexels

6 Ways Jesus Faced Opposition

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“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” ~ Ephesians 6:12

I opened God’s Word with a heavy heart, feeling the burden of opposition. A friend had recently attacked my character due to a difference of ethical beliefs. Stunned and hurt by this, I quickly recognized my unpreparedness in facing this attack. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit prompted me to seek the Lord and the truth of his Word. I opened my Bible and was led to Hebrews 12:3, which answered my prayer for relief: “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Six Ways Jesus Faced Opposition

Jesus, the Man of Sorrows, experienced opposition far worse than my situation. But in his eyes, it’s not relevant, for all who call on his name receive the same power and ability to face opposition. In studying and understanding the character of Jesus revealed in Scripture, I felt thoroughly equipped to face this challenging situation by mirroring Christ’s response.

When we are antagonized or provoked, our first step should always be to ask the Holy Spirit to guide our hearts, minds, and words. 1 Peter 3:15 instructs us to “give an answer to those who ask,” and Colossians 4:6 instructs us to speak graciously “so that [we] may know how you ought to answer each person.”

1. Jesus exposed motives.

In Mark 3, we find Jesus approaching a disfigured man in the synagogue. Verse 2 explains, “[The Pharisees] watched Jesus to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him.” Mark tells of Jesus challenging them by responding, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” (v. 4). Manmade rituals enforced by the Pharisees had made God’s Law joyless, and Jesus exposed their prideful and judgmental hearts.

2. Jesus sought peace.

When Jesus is arrested, in fear and protection, Peter cuts off the ear of the high priest’s servant. Instead of affirming this act of violence, Jesus commands peace:

Put your sword back in its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Do you think I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?” (Matthew 26:52-54).

Not only does Jesus condemn this behavior, but displays his loving nature by healing the man’s ear (Luke 22:51).

3. Jesus applied Scripture.

In Matthew 9, Jesus is found “reclined at a table in the house” with tax collectors and sinners (v. 10), which stirred up controversy amongst the Pharisees. They ask his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and ‘sinners’?” (v. 11). How does Jesus respond? “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (vv. 12-13, NIV). Jesus used Hosea 6:6, the very scripture the Pharisees preached, to challenge their hardened hearts. Later in Matthew 12, Jesus uses the same scripture from Hosea to challenge the Pharisees: “If you had known what this means…you would not have condemned the guiltless” (v. 7).

4. Jesus prayed.

As Jesus awaited his impending suffering and death, he stepped aside in isolation to pray. Opposition caused Jesus to feel sorrowful and troubled, overwhelming his soul to the point of death (Matthew 26:36-38). Jesus, fully God yet fully man, still needed his Father. Three times in Gethsemane, Matthew says he “fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will’” (vv. 39, 42, 44).

Similarly, in the Gospel of John chapter 17, Jesus prays for himself, for his disciples, and for all believers. As his impending death and resurrection approached, he prayed for salvation and for the Father’s glory as he awaited this fulfillment (vv. 1-5). He lifted up his disciples in prayer for physical and spiritual protection, unity, the full measure of his joy, obedience, and sanctification (vv. 6-19). Jesus prayed for all believers, that they may hear his message, believe, unite, evangelize, and be saved (vv. 20-25).

5. Jesus remained silent.

When Jesus is arrested and faced with the Sanhedrin looking for false evidence against him, they question him. “’Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?’ But Jesus remained silent” (Matthew 26:62-63, NIV). Jesus was aware of their bias, hostility, partiality, and their past history of twisting his words. His silence demonstrated how undeserving they were of a response. Though Jesus later responds in truth to their questions, he is still accused of blasphemy, declared worthy of death, spit in the face, struck with their fists, mocked, and provoked (vv. 64-68). Yet amidst the turmoil, he chooses silence.

6. Jesus loved.

As Jesus languished on the cross, he didn’t counter his accusers with insults, cursing, and retaliation—nor did he use his power to inflict pain. His submissive silence was a divine response from the nature of an almighty, all-powerful, sovereign God in the flesh—an example for all his people to follow. He withstood excruciating agony as long as he could so the door would be open to salvation, including for his enemies. Jesus forgave the thief on the cross hanging next to him who had earlier hurled insults at him, yet repented in his last moments (Luke 23:39-43). He prayed for the forgiveness of the very people who were crucifying him: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34, NIV). Even those responsible for the crucifixion had forgiveness available to them in love from the Lord.

Can you imagine the results had Jesus responded differently under opposition? Lives wouldn’t have changed, hearts wouldn’t have been transformed, and his beloved wouldn’t have been welcomed into his kingdom.

Equipped for Opposition

In following the tactics used by Jesus in the face of his opponents, this encounter with my friend ended in a manner I was not expecting. Though not immediately, our relationship was healed and elevated to a new level of intimacy and love—a true miracle of the Lord’s mercy and grace. Be encouraged, dear friends; though opposition in this world is inevitable, we can stand equipped under our Savior’s example and by his life, rising victoriously over it.

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*** By Meredith Hodge at Open the Bible.org / Photo by Apollonia at Pexels

Made in God’s Image: A Radical Truth in a Confused World

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In a world increasingly shaped by confusion and conflicting ideologies about our identity, it’s essential to return to the truth of Scripture to rediscover who we truly are. The profound and foundational truth that we are made in God’s image is not only the key to understanding our purpose but also the antidote to the confusion and despair that many face today. At the same time, we see a striking contradiction in society. On one hand, there is a growing emphasis on mental health and well-being, particularly for children and young people—a focus that is undeniably valuable. Yet, on the other hand, these same individuals are often taught that they are merely the accidental products of random, unguided processes. This disparity raises urgent questions about where our true value and sense of purpose come from.

This prevailing worldview, commonly seen in schools and even showcased in places like the Natural History Museum, suggests that humans originated from a “molecule-to-man” evolutionary process through natural selection. Under this framework, human beings are stripped of intrinsic value or ultimate purpose. If we are merely “rearranged atoms,” no different than the chairs we sit on, why should we consider ourselves more valuable than those objects? One bleak perspective even puts it this way: “It’s a fluke that you were born, all is futile while you live, and you’ll be fertilizer when you die.”

Environmental concerns, often valid, further deepen this narrative by portraying humanity as the planet’s primary problem. Influential figures like David Attenborough have even referred to mankind as a “plague on the planet.” These ideas contribute to widespread struggles among young people—challenges with identity, worth, and purpose—often leading them to cling desperately to fleeting causes.

The Bible’s Antidote: Our True Identity

Amid this cultural confusion, we find hope and clarity in the Bible. Genesis 1:26-27 teaches us a radically different truth about who we are. Humanity is made in the image of God. This phrase appears three times in just two verses, emphasizing its importance. “Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27 So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.”

Humanity’s Unique Role in Creation

It is essential to note that only humans are described as being made in God’s image. While other living things are described as being made “according to their kind” (Genesis 1:24-25), humanity is set apart. Though we share similarities with animals, such as being made of the same physical elements and consuming similar foods, the differences are vast and profound:

• Communication: Human communication is far more complex.

• Innovation: Unlike spiders that spin the same web design repeatedly, humans innovate endlessly.

• Self-awareness: Humans ponder their purpose, study the world, and plan for the future.

• Appreciation of beauty: Our ability to create and appreciate art reflects the Creator Himself.

The Bible clearly teaches that the image of God was present from humanity’s beginning. This is not a trait added partway through a slow evolutionary process. Genesis 5:3 confirms that Adam passed this image onto his descendants, meaning all humans are bearers of God’s image. Furthermore, Genesis 1:31 declares that creation was not just “good” but “very good” only after humanity was created. Humanity is the pinnacle of God’s creation, the culmination of His work, as Psalm 8 poetically reflects: “You made man a little lower than the angels and crowned him with glory and honor.”

What Does It Mean to Be Made in God’s Image?

The phrase “image of God” comes from the Hebrew word “tselem,” meaning a replica or representative. In the ancient Near East, kings would place statues of themselves in far-flung regions of their empires to symbolize their authority. Similarly, humanity represents God’s authority and presence in the world.

Here are five “R’s” that summarize what it means to be made in God’s image:

1. Representing God

We are God’s representatives on Earth, symbolizing His dominion and authority. This is why the second commandment forbids creating images of God for worship; humanity itself is His intended representation.

2. Resembling God

The phrase “in His likeness” (Hebrew: “demuth”) expands the idea of resemblance. We resemble God in personal, moral, and rational ways:

• We are personal beings, capable of relationships.

• We are moral beings, understanding right and wrong.

• We think, reason, feel, and act with purpose, as God does.

While we are not divine—we are neither eternal nor self-sufficient like God—we reflect aspects of His character, much like the moon reflects the light of the sun.

3. Ruling for God

Genesis 1:26 continues: “…so that they may rule over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and over all the earth.” The word for “rule” (Hebrew: “rāḏâ”) implies dominion and stewardship. Humans are entrusted with managing creation for its benefit, a role that remains positive despite the fall.

This stewardship involves cultivating and managing the earth to promote flourishing. Genesis 2 expands on this role, depicting Adam placed in the Garden to “work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). Contrary to popular claims that nature would thrive without humans, evidence shows that human management often increases biodiversity and ecological health. For instance, even secular conservationists recognize that rewilding efforts (leaving land untouched) can reduce biodiversity. Carefully managed areas, such as gardens or cultivated lands, often support more diverse ecosystems than those left wild.

4. Reflecting God

As God’s image bearers, we are called to reflect His attributes—His love, righteousness, and justice. This reflection glorifies Him and points others to His character.

A Unique Design and Purpose

Humanity’s role as God’s image bearers underscores our unique purpose. Adam’s naming of the animals (Genesis 2:19-20) highlights this distinction; no animal was found to be a suitable helper for Adam because none shared God’s image.

When God declared it was “not good” for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18), He created woman as a complementary partner, further emphasizing the relational nature of humanity—a reflection of the relational nature of God Himself.

This foundational truth—that humanity is made in the image of God—contradicts the despairing messages of our culture. It affirms our value, dignity, and purpose, reminding us that we are more than atoms or accidents. We are God’s representatives, rulers, and reflections, created to glorify Him and enjoy His creation.

5. Made for Relationship

In addition to representing, resembling, and ruling for God, humanity was created for relationship. Genesis 1:27 emphasizes this: “male and female He created them.” Relationships are central to the human experience because they reflect the very nature of God Himself.

In Genesis 1:26, God says, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness.” The plural pronouns point to the truth of the Trinity—God as one being in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This perfect, eternal relationship of love within the Trinity has profound implications. It reveals that love is intrinsic to God’s nature. Even before creating humanity, God existed in a communion of love. Unlike a solitary deity, a trinitarian God is inherently relational, making Him a God of love.

God’s design for us is rooted in this relational nature. He created us to participate in this love and to relate to Him in worship. In Genesis, God speaks to Adam and Eve, commands them, and walks with them in the garden. Humanity alone, among all creation, is given the capacity to communicate with God and with one another in meaningful ways.

Reflecting God in Human Relationships

God’s design extends to human relationships, starting with marriage. The union of man and woman reflects God’s relational nature and serves as a foundation for families. The psalmist speaks of God placing the lonely in families, emphasizing that all relationships—friendships, families, and communities—find their root in our shared identity as image-bearers of God.

However, society often promotes individualism and isolation, countering God’s intention for relationships. The idea of self-sufficiency, where everything is tailored for individual consumption, may seem appealing, but it directly opposes the biblical truth that we are created for connection.

The Marring of the Image

Although we are made in the image of God, that image has been marred by sin. Genesis 3 describes the fall of humanity through Adam and Eve’s disobedience. Though we retain God’s image, it has been distorted. Like graffiti defacing a masterpiece, sin obscures our ability to fully reflect God’s glory and carry out our God-given roles.

The Nature of the Fall

Satan’s temptation to Eve was rooted in pride and dissatisfaction. He suggested that she could “be like God,” ignoring the truth that humanity was already made in His image. Adam, failing to exercise his headship, joined in disobedience. As a result, sin entered the world, bringing suffering, pain, and death.

This is not how God created the world to be. Death and suffering are direct results of human sin, not inherent aspects of God’s creation. To argue otherwise undermines God’s goodness and the hope of redemption. The consequences of the fall are evident: fractured relationships, environmental exploitation, and a culture that either devalues humanity or elevates it to a godlike status.

Modern Rebellion Against God’s Design

Today, the rejection of God’s image leads to a host of societal issues. When we deny the intrinsic value of life, practices like abortion and euthanasia become normalized. The redefinition of marriage and gender further undermines God’s design, leaving people searching for identity and purpose in fleeting things like possessions, fame, or personal achievements. But these pursuits are inadequate. When our worth is tied to impermanent things, failure leaves us devastated. We begin to see others as objects, either competitors or tools for our benefit. This rejection of God’s image results in a society that dehumanizes itself.

The Mending of the Image

Thankfully, the story doesn’t end with the marring of the image. Through Jesus Christ, God has provided a way to restore what was broken.

Christ: The Perfect Image of God

Colossians 1:15 declares, “The Son is the image of the invisible God.” Unlike humanity, Christ is not merely made in the image of God—He is the image of God. As the Creator, Jesus demonstrates dominion over creation, calming storms, multiplying food, and even commanding fish to fulfill His purposes. He is the ultimate human, fully reflecting God’s glory while living in perfect obedience.

Yet, Christ did more than provide an example. He lived the life we were meant to live and bore the punishment for our sins. On the cross, He was marred for our transgressions so that we could be mended. Through His death and resurrection, He made reconciliation with God possible, restoring us to our original purpose as image-bearers.

Becoming Like Christ

When we repent and trust in Christ, God begins a process of transformation. Romans 8:29 explains that we are “predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” This transformation is not about adding religion to our lives but about aligning with the purpose for which we were created: to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.

This restoration affects every aspect of our lives. It shapes how we relate to others, how we steward creation, and how we pursue work and creativity. No longer striving for self-glory, we live to reflect God’s love, peace, and justice.

The Fulfillment of Restoration

One day, God will complete this work of restoration. Revelation promises a new creation where His people will dwell with Him forever, fully restored to His image. Until that day, we live with the hope and assurance that we are precious to God, not because of anything we achieve, but because of what Christ has done.

If you have not yet repented and turned to Christ, now is the time. Only through Him can we be restored to our true purpose and identity. May we all live as God intended, for His glory and the good of His creation.

Amen.

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** How to become a child of God

** Summary of Talk By Matthew Pickhaver from Biblical Creation Trust / Picture by Mart Production at Pexels

** Recommended article: One Human Race – the Biblical, Scientific & Historical Truth about Human Diversity