Philippians 1:6 // Perseverance of the Saints

 

TEXTS: Philippians 1:6

We have come to our final sermon in our Advent Series: Christmas in the Doctrines of Grace. So far, we have explored from scriptures what God has done from eternity past and how he applies it to us in salvation. But what happens now that we are in Christ? How will we make it to the end when we see Jesus face to face? This biblical doctrine shows us that those God has accepted in Christ can neither totally nor finally fall from God’s grace. They will certainly persevere in grace to the end and be eternally saved, because the gifts and callings of God cannot be revoked.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.

  • The following definition of the doctrine of Perseverance of the Saints is adapted from the 1689 London Baptist Confession: ​​Those God has accepted in Christ can neither totally nor finally fall from God’s grace. They will certainly persevere in grace to the end and be eternally saved, because the gifts and callings of God cannot be revoked. Other than Philippians 1:6, where do you see support for this in scripture?

  • Read Matthew 1:18-25 with a special focus on verse 21. This is the foundational verses for our Christmas in the Doctrines of Grace Series. Where do you see a hint of the doctrine of Perseverance of the Saints in this passage?

HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD

  • Read John 3:16 and John 10:28.” What do these promises teach us about the character of God?

  • Read John 13:1. What motivates Jesus enduring love for his disciples? How does this encourage you in moments spiritual darkness, fear, and anxiety?

HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)

  • A common objection to The Perseverance of the Saints is this:
    “If it’s guaranteed that we will never lose our salvation, then won’t we just sin and ignore God’s commands?” How do you respond this? Use scripture to support your answer. (See Ezekiel 36:26-27)

  • Another common objection is this: “If God promises that his children will persevere to the end, then why do so many people walk away from the faith?” How do you respond to this? Use scripture to support your answer. (See 1 John 2:19) 

  • How does this doctrine motivate us to pursue holy living, not in our own strength, but by the power of Jesus? (See Philippians 3:12-16)

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

 

clint@sevenmileroad.org