It is our hope that one thing is clear, that salvation is not simply knowing but rather experiencing. We are not saved simply because we know the gospel or understand the way of salvation. We are saved when we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Salvation is received by faith. The Bible says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he that cometh to God, must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6.
But what is the meaning of faith? What is it to believe? First of all, God does not mean that we are saved by simply believing that there is a God. Nor does He mean that we should simply believe that His Word is true. These things are deeply rooted in the heart of every man. The person who says there is no God, must also reject the voice of his own conscience. But if we only believe that there is a God, we do not yet believe in the sense that the Bible uses that word. Faith is a word of the heart, and not one of the head. “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness.” Romans 10:10. And God says that we must believe, also defines for us what He means by that word. Listen!
“But as many as receive Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to those who believe on His name.” John 1:12. Those who receive Jesus as their Savior, are said to believe on His name.
“Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth.” 1 Peter 1:22. This verse says that to believe is to receive the Word of God joyfully and obey it.
“I tell you, No, but except you repent, you shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:5. This verse says that we must repent. If not, we will perish. But don’t misunderstand. To truly believe simply means that we turn from sin to Christ. Repent means to turn from. Repentance and faith go hand in hand.
“That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:9, 10. Here it is stated that the person who truly believes will open his mouth and confess Jesus before all men.
Now, this is what it means to believe. To believe is to be sure that the Word of God is true, to receive it into our hearts and to obey it. Because we receive it, we turn from sin and come to the Lord Jesus, and receive Him as our Savior. Then we confess Him to our family, friends and acquaintances, and, if God wills, to the ends of the earth.
This is saving faith. And God’s Word says, “Whosoever believes (according to the meaning given in God’s Word) hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.
John E. Capron – Guest Blogger
I am Mark Phelps, the second son of the late Fred W. Phelps Sr. of Topeka, Kansas. After years of learning, and a prolonged journey of healing, I have decided to describe my life experiences growing up with Fred, and my journey of healing. I have learned that truth is very healing and freeing, and for those who have experienced abuse yourself, I hope my journey of healing may be helpful to you.
