SALVATION !

SALVATION simply means” Rescue or Deliverance “. In the Old Testament ( OT), it is represented by the Hebrew word, ” ישועה ” , which means ” to rescue or deliver from a real, physical danger or trouble. But the Greek Word that stands for it in the New Testament (NT), “sotiria”, means ” to deliver from sin and it’s consequences” A consummate definition would, therefore, be ” deliverance from sin, and other life-time troubles ” –

1 thessalonians 1:10, Psalms 54:1 & 2 Kings 19:19.

The preceding introductory paragraph simply unclothes what we are saved from; to put things into broader perspective, it is worth noting that, as referenced from Psalms 20, God alone is the source of salvation in the OT. Paul would, however, refer the people to Jesus when he was asked what they would do to be saved in the NT. ( Acts 16:30-31). And we are saved to be reconciled with God.

Salvation is triune – Past, Present and Future. The first but elementary level is a one-time experience that simply ushers us into God, reconciling us unto Him for we are now justified. It is what Paul refers to when He says, “He has saved us.” 2Timothy 1:9. This is termed, ” PAST SALVATION.”

That is not all there is with Salvation ! We must now be sanctified on daily basis in order to be saved from daily troubles and to remain set apart with God. Again, this is what the Apostle talks of in 1 Corinthians 1:18, saying there are those who are being saved. Because of it’s present continuous nature, we term it, ” PRESENT SALVATION.”

Finally, Romans 5:9 says, ” we shall be saved.” So this level is termed as, “FUTURE SALVATION.” Obviously, this tense of salvation would not be a reality to us unless we first excel with the foregoing two. This FUTURE SALVATION comes with the glorification revealed in 1 Corinthians 15:52.

Beloved, if you are not yet born again, I urge that you believe in the death and resurrection of The Lord Jesus Christ. Confess also His Lordship over your life to receive a re-birth ! But for us who are already reconciled unto The Lord, may we steadfastly remain sanctified in our Present Salvation, while we look forward to our Future Salvation. God richly bless you ! ( Romans 10:9,10).