the one continuously believing has everlasting life John 3:16 the one continuously believing is born of God 1 John 5:1
the one continuously believing has imputed righteousness Rom 4:24 the one continuously believing has remission of sins Acts 10:43
the one continuously believing has righteousness by faith Rom :22
the one continuously believing is a son of God John 1:12 to the one continuously believing has salvation Rom 1:16
the one continuously believing is justification by faith Rom 4:5
Russell Earl Kelly, Ph. D.
Using Greek Participles to
Clarify God’s Word
Russell Earl Kelly, Ph.D.
russkellyphd@yahoo.com
August 8, 2023
This book uses Greek participles as the primary method of teaching that salvation is the result of continuous faith. As part of what I thought was God’s plan of salvation, I have cherished the doctrine of eternal security as the most important one in God’s Word. That all changed late 2022 when I began attending Eastside Free Will Baptist Church in Elizabethton, Tennessee and began studying J. Matthew Pinson’s, A Freewill Baptist Handbook.
As an educated conservative Bible scholar, I discovered that I had been overlooking the inspired participles and present tense continuous action of verbs in an overwhelming number of important salvation texts. By interpreting “believeth,” “believe,” “believes” and related verbs as continuous actions, my world of biblical understanding was corrected.
My hermeneutic, or principle of interpretation, had been in error. I had been treating verbs like “believeth” and “believes” as one-time professions of faith and non-continuous verbs which did not have to endure beyond justification into sanctification. The key to my new understanding was the necessary continuous action of the Greek present participle which I had not grasped in “believeth.” This changed my understanding of God’s plan of salvation! I also discovered that I had been mis-applying many texts which contained the Greek perfect tense.
Having a Ph. D. in Theology with a minor in biblical Greek, I totally immersed myself into this new method of Bible study. My own internet article on eternal security was my worst opposition. From what I have learned, God’s use of Greek present, aorist and perfect participle is known among theologians. However, in my opinion, they have not, as I have, used the participles as their preferred means of teaching Bible truth!
God’s use of Greek participles proves that saving faith is continuous faith and also correctly interprets most texts used to support one-time professions and eternal security. Aware of the underlying presence of continuous participles, I now feel free to allow the literal interpretation of God’s Word to speak and I no longer need to force God’s Word into agreeing with my preconceived conclusions.
II ETERNAL SECURITY DOCTRINE
In the early 1600s, when Baptists began publishing their statements of faith in England, they were divided into Particular Baptists who were Calvinistic and taught predestination, and General Baptists who taught free will. Most Particular Baptists were 5-point Calvinists who taught that believers could not fall from grace because God had predestined their perseverance, or endurance, of sanctification. They taught that perseverance meant that God would override free will and prevent believers from denying Hm and falling from grace. This document is not intended to discuss the purely Calvinistic perseverance version of sanctification.
Today, many, if not most, Baptists are only semi-Calvinistic. They no longer teach that predestination overrides free will until the time of justification by faith. Instead, they teach that free will is the controlling factor until one has been saved, or justified, by an initial one-time profession of faith (belief). However, these “free grace” Baptists remain at least semi-Calvinistic in teaching eternal security, or once-saved, always saved, after justification. Some remain halfCalvinistic concerning perseverance and teach that God will not allow believers to fall away and live a godless life (Lordship salvation). Many others (as I had) teach that believers can completely reject and deny Christ after being justified through a one-time profession and remain eternally saved. This document uses primarily the effect and purpose of participles to refute this last interpretation.
Imagine yourself in a locked prison with steel doors welded shut and guards surrounding the outside. And, every day the guards continuously tell you “Do not leave, stay there” (abide, remain, stand fast). This is illogical. Yet, that is precisely how eternal security is taught today. While the doctrine teaches that one-time believers cannot fall from grace under any circumstance, it also teaches that believers are constantly reminded in God’s Word to abide, remain and stand fast in their faith.
The eternal security doctrine teaches that God requires, at the very least, an initial one-time profession of faith in order to be justified, but does require a continuation of faith in order to remain under His saving grace. While God will not tolerate habitual sin in heaven, He will not reject believers who stop continuously believing in Him on earth.
This book will illustrate how, in scores of very important basic salvation texts, the continuous participle behind “believeth” and “believes” is ignored and replaced with a one-time profession of faith leading to salvation. An unscholarly and inexcusable failure to interpret the present tense participles and present tense verbs as continuous actions enables the doctrine of eternal security to survive.
Arminians are accused of teaching that believers are saved by grace through faith alone, but are kept saved by good works. However, both Arminians and eternal security advocates interpret James 2:17-24 to mean that good works are only the evidence (not the substance) of saving faith. While Arminians and eternal security advocates both teach that saving faith which leads to justification is evidenced by good works, Arminians also teach that sustaining faith of sanctification is also evidenced by good works. Unlike the perseverance doctrine of Calvinism, eternal security advocates abandon the continuous necessity of believing after justification.
III
THE GREEK PRESENT TENSE
According to Romans 3:22, “faith,” the noun form of “believe” is continuous believing, and not a one-time profession. As scores of participle-believing verses teach, God requires continuous faith in order for a person to be eternally saved.
If God had wanted salvation to be received after an initial one-time profession of faith, He would not have inspired so many continuous Greek present tense verbs and participles in “believing” texts. Present tense verbs and participles are used in most languages to denote continuous action. God, in His Omniscience inspired the participle, “believing,” eighty-five (85) times in extremely important salvation texts, but translators only kept the “ing” ending five (5) times. This is not a minor problem of interpretation. This result of incorrect interpretation has resulted in most Bible readers interpreting “believeth” and “believes” as onetime punctiliar actions in vital salvation texts such as John 3:15, 16, 18 and 36. See the chapter on “Believing.” When present, past and perfect tense
participles and present tense verb forms of “believe” verbs are combined, 147 of 265 times, the verb should be translated as “continuous believing.”
Although this anomaly has been noted by Arminian authors, It has not been pursued as a very important method of studying God’s Word. This book is different because it focuses on Greek present tense verbs and participles to explain free will and the eternal security doctrine. It repudiates the requirement for receiving eternal life from one-time professions of faith. For example:
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. KJV
Compared to using the correct participle:
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that [hina: subjunctive] “every one continuously believing” [participle] in him should not, instead of “would not,” perish, but have everlasting life.
(1) The Greek participle for “believeth” requires a correct interpretation of
“continuous believing.” It is not an initial one-time profession of faith! (2) Since continuous believing is required for having everlasting life, the gift of God is conditional; it is contingent, dependent upon, continuous believing, and not a one-time profession. (3) Translators correctly interpreted “should not” instead of “would not.” The Greek subjunctive, “hina,” requires an interpretation of “should not” because not everyone who continuously believes will necessarily continue to believe and might even fall from grace. (4) Both the participle for “continuous believing” and the subjunctive for “should not” oppose the eternal security interpretation of John 3:16. It is not a one-time faith and it allows for believers to fall from grace.
John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. KJV
Compare with the Greek present tenses pointed out.
John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, “the one continuously hearing”
[participle] my word, and “the one continuously believing” [participle] on him “having sent” [participle] me, “is continuously having” [present tense] everlasting life, and “is not continuously coming” [present tense] into condemnation; but “has passed” [perfect tense] from death unto life.
(1) “Heareth” and “believeth” are participles which must be translated as “continuously hearing” and “continuously believing.” (2) “Hath” is present tense and should also be interpreted as “continuously having.” (3) “Shall not come” is present tense, not future tense; it should be interpreted as “is not continuously coming.” (4) When these four verbs are combined, the requirement for “continuously having everlasting life” is “continuously hearing” God’s Word, “continuously believing” God’s Word and “continuously coming” to God instead of one-time profession. (5)
Therefore, the resulting perfect tense “is passed from death unto life” is contingent upon, or dependent upon, the believer continuously maintaining the same faith which resulted in justification. Again, a onetime profession is not taught in this verse.
Many (like myself) have erroneously interpreted “believeth” and “believes” as one-time punctiliar verbs that can end at justification — and this erroneously leads to the false once-saved always-saved interpretation. Correctly translating “believeth,” the Greek present active participle, as “the one(s) believing” is crucial for understanding God’s Word. The same continuous action is also true of the present tense form, “believes.” This continues to be true of all other King James verbs ending in “eth” such as “abideth,” “drinketh,” “eateth,” “hateth,” justifieth,” “loveth” and “sanctifieth.” It is also true of other-version verbs ending in “es.” God is attempting to teach that continuous free will action does not end at justification — but many (like myself) have been continuously missing this truth.
What difference does that make? Much indeed! The continuing action of the present tense participle and verb is often the controlling action of the resulting condition or phrase. Yet eternal security advocates teach that the “hearing,” “believing” and “coming” of John 5:24 can end while “having” eternal life continues. That is illogical.
I V
GREEK PAST and
PERFECT TENSE PARTICIPLES
If God had wanted past salvation experiences to be worded with “ed” endings, He would have only inspired aorist (past tense) verbs. But He did not do that! God wanted to teach man that “believing” was much more than a one-time event in the past; rather, saving faith of “believing” must be a continuous belief reaching forward into eternity.
Nine (9) of the texts quoted in this book under “Believing” are either “aorist participles” or “perfect participles.” As such, their correct interpretations should include both the aorist, or perfect, and the participle meaning. They do not! Again, as with the present tense participles, translators have interpreted all nine with onetime “ed” endings denoting the aorist or perfect tense, but have completely ignored the required continuous action demanded by the participle.
“Having believed” of both aorist and perfect participles punctiliar and is only half correct. In order to correctly include the continuous participle, the interpretation of past and perfect tense participles should read similar to “having believed and continued believing.” Otherwise, God’s inspired participle is lost in translation. Omitting the participle allows for mis-interpretation of a one-time profession of faith.
**2. In John 8:31 “which believed” should read “which believed [perfect] and continued believing” [participle]
V
THE GREEK PERFECT TENSE
Many eternal security advocates erroneously use the Greek perfect tense as if it were an unchangeable, inescapable, final verdict for one-time believers. Building upon the previous examples of aorist and perfect participles, it is clear that a one-time unchangeable profession of faith is not intended when perfect verbs are used. This portion of the book uses Greek participles to further refute that argument.
John 3:18 “The one continuously believing” [present participle] “is not being judged” [present passive] … “the one who has not believed and continues not believing” [perfect participle] “is condemned already” [perfect tense].
Notice the perfect tense participle in this verse. The perfect portion should be translated “the one who has not believed” while the participle portion should be translated “and continues not believing.” Bible translators routinely fail to include the participle portion of both perfect and aorist participles and their translations often look like one-time professions of faith.
Contrary to western law, in the Bible, one is guilty until becoming innocent by believing (faith). However, contrary to the eternal security doctrine, the “perfect” condition of “condemned already” can be escaped, or changed, by continuous believing. This is extremely important to know about the perfect tense in God’s Word. John 3:18 proves that a perfect finality is not inescapable. “The believing one” escapes being judged.
The main verb is a Greek perfect passive participle. It is best translated
“you have been saved [perfect] and are continuously being saved”
[passive participle] through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. The passive participle portion of the verb does not indicate a finality of purpose or a one-time profession of faith.
The Greek reads “has perfected” [perfect tense] and “are being continuously sanctified” [present passive participle]. Since the eternal security doctrine does not teach that believers “are being sanctified” after justification, but can deny Christ and remain saved, they should not attempt to use this verse to prove anything.
VI
THE GREEK SUBJUNCTIVE MOOD
Have you ever wondered why John 3:16 reads “should not perish” instead of “would not perish”? God’s inspired Greek subjunctive mood is lethal to the eternal security doctrine. If eternal security advocates could re-write the Bible, the words, “should,” “might” and “may” would not occur in important salvation texts like John 3:16.
Why? “If” is much more complicated in Greek than in English. Two different Greek words are used. This is indicated using brackets in the texts. On the one hand, “ei” (if) is factual. “Ei” means something is true and will happen; “ei” plus “not” means something is not true and will not happen. On the other hand, “ean”
(if) is probable. “Ean” means something probably, or “should” be, “might” or “may” be true and should happen; “ean” plus “not” means something is probably not true and probably will not happen.
This is extremely important! The difference between “ei” and “ean” is that “ean” does not mean “all” — exceptions can exist. When “ean” appears (as in John 3:16), there is a small possibility that “the one continuously believing” could afterwards stop believing and fall from grace. This distinction affects every text using the Greek subjunctive.
In addition to “ei” and “ean,” the Greek conjunction “hina,” English “that,” or, “in order that,” is usually followed by subjunctive verbs of purpose such as “should,” “might” or “may.” This is very important because texts like John 3:16 do not teach that “every one continuously believing” “will continue to believe and will finally be saved.” Instead, John 3:16 teaches that they “should be, might be or may be saved.” While eternal security advocates teach that one cannot fall from grace, the subjunctive use in scores of texts like John 3:16 allows for at least some believers to stop believing and fall from grace.
VII
BELIEVING ONE(S)
The strongest biblical argument for continuous faith (compared to one-time faith) is the inspired New Testament use of the Greek present tense and participles. And the best God-inspired verb to demonstrate that persons can fall from grace and eternal security is wrong is “believing.” Again, while God inspired “believing” 85 times, it only occurs as “believing” five (5) in the K. J. V. And, contrary to how eternal security advocates teach that continuous faith can cease after justification, the Bible teaches that “believing” (faith) is an action which must continue after one accepts Christ.
The common words “whosoever,” “every one,” “everybody” and “who” in front of “believeth” and “believes” seldom exist in the Greek. In 71 of its 85 participles, the Greek is “the (one or ones) believing” which should be interpreted as “the (one or ones) continuously believing” in order to accurately reflect the purpose of participles. The other 14 “believing” participles include forms of “every.” When God wanted the action of the verb to be continuous, He inspired participles to point out continuous action. The result of the action is being maintained as long as the participle action continues.
This use of the present participle and present tense destroys the doctrine of eternal security which often treats “believeth” and “believes” as one-time punctiliar actions which do not necessarily need to continue throughout one’s spiritual life.
The following sixty-one (61) key verses are the heart of this document. Most demonstrate how the Greek participles and present tense verbs are overwhelming in support of the doctrine of free will. In these verses, God tells us in His inspired Word that continuously believing is the condition of continuously having eternal life, everlasting life, remission of sins, imputed righteousness and scores of other spiritual gifts. God did this by inspiring the Greek present participle and present tense. As long as one is believing, one is having — that is how “by faith” works.
IF YOU ARE CONTINUOUSLY “BELIEVING” —
…
Mark 9:23 Jesus said unto him, If thou are able to believe [infinitive], all things are possible to “the one continuously believing” [present participle].
Only “the one continuously believing” has all things possible.
…
Mark 16:16 “The one having continuously believed [aorist] and continues believing” (participle) shall be saved; but “the one not continuously believing” [present participle] shall be damned.
Only “the one continuously believing” shall be saved and not be damned. The two present participles should not be interpreted as one-time professions of faith.
…
John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to “the ones continuously believing” [present participle] on his name.
Only “the ones continuously believing” will receive authority to become sons of God.
…
John 3:15 That [hina: subjunctive] “every one continuously believing” [present participle] should be “having eternal life” (present subjunctive).
Only “the one continuously believing” should not perish, but should have eternal life. These are not one-time professors. Those who are currently believing “should not” (not “would not”) have eternal life.
…
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that [hina: subjunctive] “every one continuously believing” [present participle] should not (not “would not”) perish, but “should be having” [present subjunctive] everlasting life”
Only “the one continuously believing” should be having everlasting life. These two often-quoted texts (verses 15 and 16) are both present participles demanding a “continuously believing” interpretation. They do not refer to one-time professions of faith. Also, the “hina” does not mean a future “will not.” John 3:15 and 3:16 do not teach that everyone currently believing will necessarily remain believers.
John 3:18 “The one continuously believing” [present participle] “is not being judged” [present passive] … “the one not continuously believing” [perfect participle] “is condemned already” [perfect tense]
See discussion at “Perfect Tense.” The beginning perfect tense,
“condemned already,” can be overcome and escaped by a subsequent continuous believing. This proves that a perfect finality is not inescapable as eternal security advocates teach. “The one continuously believing” is not being judged.
**7. Rom 3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all “the ones continuously believing” [present participle]: for there is no difference:
This is the most important text in this book. It is the first occurrence of the phrase, “righteousness by faith” in God’s Word. The participle demands the interpretation of “unto all and upon all the ones continuously believing.” Righteousness by faith is only received by continuous believing.
**8. John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. KJV
…
John 3:36 “The one continuously believing” [present participle] “is having everlasting life” [present]; and “the one not continuously believing” [present participle] shall not see life, but the wrath of God “is remaining on him” [present].
Only “the one continuously believing” “is having” everlasting life. As in 5:24, the two present tense participles are inter-dependent. As a participle, “believing” is continuous and maintains the result of everlasting life.
…
John 5:24 “The one continuously hearing” and “the one continuously believing” are present participles. “The one having” everlasting life is present tense.
Only “the one continuously believing” “is having everlasting life.” See discussion under “Present Tense.” As long as one is “continuously hearing, believing and coming,” one is “continuously having” everlasting life.
…
John 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: “the one continuously coming” [present participle] to me shall never hunger; and “the one continuously believing” [present participle] on me shall never thirst.
Only “the one continuously believing” shall never thirst. The literal Greek says that the person who keeps on coming to Jesus and keeps on believing on Him will never hunger or thirst. This is not a one-time profession as some interpret John 4:14.
**11. John 6:40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. KJV
…
John 6:40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that [hina: subjunctive] “every one continuously seeing” [present participle] the Son and “continuously believing” [present participle] in Him may have everlasting life and I will raise him up on the last day.
Only “the ones believing” “may” (not “will”) have everlasting life.
Important text! It is the will of the Father that those who keep their eyes on Jesus and keep on believing in Him will be raised up on the last day.
…
John 6:47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, “the one continuously believing” [present participle] “is having” [present tense] everlasting life.
Only “the one continuously believing” “is continuously having everlasting life.”
**13. John 7:38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. KJV
…
John 7:38 “The one continuously believing” [present participle] …. out of his belly will flow living waters.
Only “the one continuously believing” will have living waters. Compare John 4:14.
…
John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews “the ones who had believed and continued believing” [perfect participle], ye are my disciples indeed.
Only “the ones who had believed [perfect] and continued believing” [participle] are Jesus’ true disciples. True disciples are not one-time professors, but continuous believers. This is not what eternal security advocates teach.
…
John 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: “the one continuously believing” [present participle], though he were dead, yet shall he live.
Only “the one continuously believing” shall live.
t16. John 11:26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? KJV
…
John 11:26 And “every one continuously living” and “continuously believing” [present participles] in me shall never die. Believest [present tense] thou me?
Only “the ones continuously believing” shall never die.
…
John 12:46 I am come a light into the world, that [hina: subjunctive] “every one continuously believing” [present participle] on me should not abide in darkness.
Only “the one continuously believing” “should not” (not “would not”) abide in darkness.
…
John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, “the one continuously believing” [present participle] on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.
Only “the one continuously believing” shall do greater works than Jesus did.
…
John 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet “having believed [aorist] and continue believing” [participle].
Only “the ones who have believed and continue believing” are blessed.
…
John 20:31 But these are written, that [hina: subjunctive] ye “might” (not “will”) believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that [hina: subjunctive]
“continue believing” [present] ye “might” (not “will”) have life through his name.
Only “the one continuously believing” “might” (not “will”) continue believing and have life through His name.
…
Acts 2:44 “All who had believed [aorist] and continued believing” [participle] were all together and had all things common.
“All who had believed [aorist] and continued believing” [participle] were all together and had all things common.
…
Acts 4:32 And the multitude of “the ones who had believed [aorist] and continued believing” [participle] were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
“The ones who had believed [aorist] and continued believing” [participle] had all things common.
…
Acts 9:26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and not “believing” [participle] that he was a disciple. KJV
“The ones continuously believing” knew Paul was a disciple.
**24. Acts 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. KJV
…
Acts 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name “the ones continuously believing” [present participle] in him shall receive remission of sins.
Only “the ones continuously believing” receive the remission of sins. The ones not continuously believing shall not receive the remission of sins.
…
Acts 11:21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number “who had believed [aorist] and continued believing” [participle] turned to the Lord.
Only “the ones who had believed [aorist [ and continued believing” [participle] turned to the Lord.
**26. Acts 13:39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses. KJV
…
Acts 13:39 And by him “every one continuously believing” [present participle] “are being justified” [present passive] from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Only “the ones who continuous believe” [participle] “are being justified” [present passive [ from all things.
**27. Acts 18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, “the ones who had believed [perfect] and continued believing” [participle] helped him much through grace.
Only “the ones who had believed and continued believing” helped Paul much through grace.
**28. Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. KJV
…
Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to “all the ones continuously believing” [present participle]; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Only “the ones continuously believing” have the gospel of Christ as the power of God.
Justification is the result of faith alone. And “faith alone” must be interpreted as “continuous believing” because of the present tense participle inspired in these “believeth” and “believes” texts. There is no verse which teaches that “faith alone” only means a one-time profession of faith! “Continuous believing (faith)” comes from “out of” (Greek: ek) continuous faith and continues back “into” (Greek: eis) more continuous faith through sanctification. The same kind of continuous faith which leads to justification also leads to continuing faith of sanctification (Rom 3:22).
The eternal security doctrine drops both halves of the formula, it only requires a one-time profession for justification and, then, does not require continuous faith afterwards. Eternal security advocates teach that, since one cannot later deny Christ and fall from grace, then continuing faith is not essential.
**30. Rom 3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference. KJV
…
Rom 3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon “all the ones continuously believing” [present participle]: for there is no difference.
Only “the ones continuously believing” have the righteousness of God “by faith.” And, in context, “by faith” must be interpreted as “continuous believing.” This is an extremely important text which clearly defines righteousness by faith. In context, it does not include one-time professions of faith.
Rom 3:24 “the one being continuously justified” [present passive participle] freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
Justification is described here as something that is continuous.
“Being justified” refers to “the ones continuously believing” in verse 22.
Everything the believer has from God is contingent upon continuous faith.
The imputation of justification stops when the continuous believing stops.
…
Rom 3:26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and “the one continuously justifying” [present active participle] of him which is “the one of faith” (believing) in Jesus.
Again, as in 3:22, God declares Himself righteous to the person “the one of faith.” This does not apply to those who made a one-time profession and later denied Christ.
According to 3:22,” “faith” is “continuous believing.”
**34. Rom 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. KJV
…
Rom 4:5 But “to the one not working” [participle], but to “the one continuously believing” [participle] on “the one continuously justifying” the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Only “the one continuously believing” on God, who is “the one continuously justifying the ungodly,” has his faith counted for righteousness. This excludes one-time professors who have stopped believing. It also counters the eternal security doctrine.
…
Rom 4:11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of “all the ones continuously believing” [present participle], though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also.
Only “the ones continuously believing” have Abraham as their spiritual father.
**36. Rom 4:24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead. KJV
…
Rom 4:24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, “to the ones continuously believing” [present participle] on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead.
Only “the ones continuously believing” have imputed righteousness. The ones not believing do not have imputed righteousness.
Rom 5:2 By whom also we “have had” access by faith into this grace wherein we stand [perfect] and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Only by continuous faith do believers have “access” to God and a “perfect standing” before God.
The ones who are “in Christ” are “the ones continuously walking” after the Spirit.” For those not using the King James Version, this ending is repeated as a participle in verse 4. Also see Romans 3:22.
Unlike Western law where adoption takes place in a moment, God’s adoption of believers will not be complete until Christ returns and the body is changed (1 Thess 4:13-17; 1 Cor 15:51-54). As detailed in my discussion of Romans 8:39, “we,” the ones groaning for complete adoption, are only the ones who are continuously believing the gospel and continuously obeying God.
…
Rom 9:33 As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and “the one continuously believing” [present participle] will not be ashamed.
Only “the one continuously believing” shall not be ashamed.
…
Rom 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to “all continuously believing,” [present participle].
Only “the ones continuously believing” have Christ as the end of the law for righteousness.
…
Rom 10:10 For with the heart “righteousness is continuously being believed upon” [present passive] …
Rom 10:11 For the scripture saith, “every one continuously believing” [present participle] “shall not be ashamed.”
Only “the ones continuously believing” are righteous and not ashamed.
**43. 1 Cor 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. KJV
….
1 Cor 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save “the ones continuously believing” [present participle].
Only “the ones continuously believing” will be saved.
**44. Gal 3:22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. KJV
…
Gal 3:22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to “the ones continuously believing” [present participle].
Only “the ones continuously believing” are given the promises by faith.
45 Gal 3:26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
According to Romans 3:22, “by faith,” means “by continuously believing.” Only continuous believers are the children of God; that is real faith.
Everything the Christian has from God is through a continuing faith (believing) in Jesus Christ. Yet, the eternal security doctrine does not require continuing faith after justification. It replaces continuing faith with a decree from God that, believers are once saved-always saved regardless of whether faith continues.
**46. Eph 1:13 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. KJV
…
Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye “were continuously hearing” [participle] the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also, when you “continuously believed [aorist] and continued believing” [participle], you “were being sealed” [aorist passive] with the holy Spirt of promise.
Only “the ones who believed [aorist] and keep on believing” [participle] “were being sealed” [aorist passive] with the Holy Spirit. This is the effect of the aorist participle.
By giving the “continuously hearing and believing” (verse 13) the downpayment “earnest” of the Holy Spirit, God promises to complete adoption. Again, unlike western law, God’s “earnest” is given conditionally to those who are “continuously believing.”
…
Eph 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power “to the one continually believing” [participle] according to the working of his mighty power.
Only “the one continuously believing” knows the exceeding greatness of God’s power.
Only by “continuous faith” are believers “in Christ” and Christ is “in believers.
According to Romans 3:22, the righteousness of God is only received by those who have “continuous faith.”
…
1 Thess 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in “the ones continuously believing” [present participle].
Only “the ones continuously believing” have the Word effectively working in them.
…
2 Thess 1:10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in “all the ones who have believed [aorist] and continue believing” [participle] in that day.
Only “the ones who have believed [aorist] and continue believing” [participle] will glorify and admire Christ at His coming.
…
1 Tim 4:10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust
in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of “the ones continuously believing” [present participle].
Christ is the Saviour of all “the ones continuously believing.”
***54. Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for “the one continuously coming” [participle] to God must “be continuously believing” [present tense] that he is, and that he is a rewarder of “the ones continuously seeking” [participle] him.
Faith (believing) is not a one-time event which seals a believer’s fate forever. As the Greek participle requires, faith is a continuous “coming” to God, a continuous “believing” in Him and a continuous “seeking” Him.
1 Pet 1:5 “the ones continuously being kept” [passive participle] by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
According to Romans 8:28, the “elect” are “the ones who freely chose to continuously love God.” The elect are being sanctified by the Spirit for “obedience” (v2). Their inheritance is being “reserved” for them in heaven. How? “Through faith.” What kind of faith? Continuous believing. Final “last time” salvation will be revealed to those who keep faith (keep on believing). “The ones continuously being kept” are not denying Christ.
Rather, they are being sanctified unto obedience.
According to Romans 3:22, only the ones continuously believing will receive the salvation of souls.
2 Peter 1:10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye “are doing” these things, ye shall never fall.
“Never fall” from what? From remembering one has been saved? Or from grace itself? What kind of Christian is “blind” and has “forgotten” that he/she was once saved?
**58. 1 John 5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
…
1 John 5:1 “The one continuously believing” [present participle] that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
Only “the one continuously believing” is born of God.
…
1 John 5:5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but “the one continuously believing” [present participle] that Jesus is the Son of God.
Only “the one continuously believing” overcomes the world.
*60. 1 John 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. KJV
…
1 John 5:10 “The one continuously believing” [present participle] on the Son of
God hath the witness in himself: “the one not continuously believing” [present participle] God hath made him a liar; because he “has not believed” [aorist] the record that God gave of his Son.
Only “the one continuously believing” has the witness within himself.
…
1 John 5:13 These things have I written unto “the ones continuously believing” on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye “are having “eternal life, and that ye may (not “will”) believe [subjunctive] on the name of the Son of God.
Only “the ones continuously believing” may know that they have eternal life.
For a topical list of these 61 texts, see under “Faith.”
VIII
ETERNAL SECURITY PROS AND CONS
The following texts are divided into PRO eternal security texts used to support that doctrine and CON texts which challenge the idea that nobody can fall from grace.
menoo] unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Many true believers who are not included in the sealed 144,000 Hebrews will die from the seals, trumpets and vials of the tribulation period. Therefore, “endure” must refer to the ones who continuously believe and “saved” must refer to spiritual salvation.
Matt 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. KJV
…
Matt 28:19 -20
“Going” continuously [present participle], make disciples of all nations; “baptizing” continuously [present participle] them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
“teaching” continuously [present participle] them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Jesus was not speaking to all believers, as many claim. In context, “ye” only refers to those disciples who would be continuously “going,” “baptizing” and “teaching” (as the participles demand). Jesus will truly be with them unto the end of the world.
The eternal security doctrine teaches that believers remain saved even when they do not continue coming to the light.
The reverse is that only “the one continuously believing” the Son see life and the wrath of God is not on him.
[subjunctive] of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst [future]; but the water that I shall give him shall be [future] in him a well of water “that keeps on bubbling up” [present participle] into everlasting life.
Many teach that this proves that a one-time profession o faith leads to “never thirsting.” However, the probable subjunctive does not necessarily include everybody. In the following four texts, Jesus makes it clear that continuous drinking and continuous eating of His doctrine and the Word of God are needed. See John 6:35, 54 and 7:37-38.
In John 6:35 “I am the bread of life”; “the one continuously coming”
[participle] to me shall never hunger and “the one continuously believing”
[participle] on me shall never thirst.”
In John 6:54 “The one continuously eating” [participle] my flesh, and “the one continuously drinking” [participle] my blood, “is having” eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”
In John 7:37 “If [ean: probable] any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.”
John 7:38 “The one continuously believing” [participle] on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
“Believeth” and “believes” are not one-time punctiliar [past tense] verbs and must be interpreted as continuous.
[participle] in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye “are not believing.”
Those who do not continuously abide by continuous believing were either never saved, or fell from grace. This should be a warning to those who teach that one can stop believing and remain saved.
…
John 6:37 All that the Father giveth [is giving] me shall come to me; and “the one continuously coming” [present participle] to me I will in no wise cast out.
Eternal security advocates use this to teach that Jesus will never cast out any believer.
However, the present participle must be included in the interpretation. Christ will literally never cast out “the ones who are continuously coming” to Him by faith. And, “by faith” means “by continuously believing.” It does not include those who stop coming by faith (believing).
…
John 6:39 And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that [hina:
subjunctive] of “all which he hath given” me [participle phrase] I should [not “would”] lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.
The Father “is continuously giving” Christ “all who are continuously coming” (v37) to him for salvation. As in Romans 8:28, the elect are those who freely choose to “continuously love” [participle] God. The present tense and participles cannot be ignored. When the continuous “coming,” “loving” and “believing” cease, so does the continuous “giving.”
“That” indicates a subjunctive phrase and “should” indicates that not all will continue coming. The “the son of perdition” will be lost per John 17:12.
Eternal security advocates want us to believe that “believed” is only a one-time punctiliar profession of faith. However, as a perfect participle, the correct translation demands non-stop continuous believing.
…
John 10:27 My sheep “are continuously hearing” [present] my voice, and I “am knowing” [present] them, and they “are continuously following” [present] me.
Eternal security advocates treat these three verbs as if they were onetime punctiliar professions of faith.
There is no one-time profession here. The verbs are all present tense, not past tense. Christ’s sheep are “continuously hearing” His voice; they do not stop hearing Him and deny Him. Jesus is “continuously knowing” His sheep and they are “continuously following” Him; they do not stop following Him! Since eternal security advocates do not teach that all believers will “continuously follow” Christ by actively believing, they have no right to use this verse to defend their doctrine.
When Christ’s sheep stop hearing His voice and stop following Him, He will stop knowing them. This is difficult to explain for the eternal security advocates because they teach that even those who later deny Christ will still be saved.
John 10:29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. KJV ….
John 10:28 And I “am giving” unto them eternal life; and they “should not perish” [past subjunctive] neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. John 10:29 … no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
On the one hand, eternal security advocates teach that even believers are included in “no one” or “no man.” This cancels free will after justification.
On the other hand, plucking is an action from the outside. Free will allows individuals to remove themselves from God’s hand. This book points out where the inspired biblical participle for “believe” demands an interpretation of continuous believing in order to maintain continuous abiding in Christ’s hand and His gift of eternal life. When a believer stops continuously believing (loses faith) and denies Christ, he/she removes self from God’s hand.
It is also important to know that “should not perish” is “probablesubjunctive.” God did not inspire “would not perish” because not everybody will remain in God’s hand. See Matthew 10:33 and Hebrews 11:6.
John 15:5 “the one continuously abiding” [participle] in me, and I in him, “the one continuously bringing” forth much fruit
John 15:6 If [ean: probable] a man abide not (remain not) in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned [present tense].
John 15:7 If [ean: probable] ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Jn 15:10 If [ean: probable] ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
Translate these texts literally. John 15:1-10 are very strong texts quoted by free will advocates. They clearly teach that those who stop continuously believing can fall from grace. Verse one is illogical if one cannot cease to abide in Christ. Verse 5 has a participle which must be interpreted as continuous action. Verse 6 clearly states that believers who do not “abide” (continuously) in Christ are “cast into the fire.”
If God did not allow believers to fall from grace, there would be no reason to persuade believers to continue in the grace of God.
Those who are “continuously being led” by the Spirit of God are the sons of God. This contradicts the eternal security doctrine which teaches that believers will remain saved whether they continue being led by the Spirit or not.
…
Rom 8:28 And we know that,
[1] to “the ones continuously loving” God, all things work together for good, [2] to “the ones continuously being called” according to his purpose
The Greek of Romans 8:28 reveals two equal phrases of “for good.” The present active participles must be interpreted as continuous verbs for “continuous loving” and “continuous being called.” God foreknew and called the “category” (not individuals) of persons who freely and “continuously choose to love” Him. This is extremely important. Again, God predestinates and calls, as a category, those individuals who freely chose to “continuously love” Him to be saved.
God did not predestine those who do NOT continuously love him to be saved. This is the great error of both Calvinism and the eternal security doctrine.
The eternal security doctrine does not teach that God “conforms” believers to the Image of Jesus Christ. Instead, it teaches that a one-time profession of faith is all that is required to be guaranteed eternal salvation. It teaches the opposite of conformation to the image of Christ; believers can stop believing and even deny Christ and still be saved.
Rom 8:39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Eternal security advocates quote these as two of the strongest texts which teach that none can fall from grace. However, such would only be true if Paul were speaking to all who have made a one-time profession of faith in Jesus.
They key word here is “us.” “Us” does not refer to those who made a onetime profession and later denied Christ. “Us” only refers to those who have continued to believe after making a profession of faith. In context, “us” must be limited to the continuous believers Paul had previously described in Romans, chapter eight. The “us” are not those who have stopped believing and have later denied Christ. Rather, the “us” are believers who are not continuously “walking according to the flesh” (8:1); “are not continuously being in the flesh” [notice the participle] (8:8); they are continuously “putting to death” the deeds of the body (8:13); are continuously being led by the Spirit of God (8:14) and have freely chosen to love God (8:28). The continuous use of present-tense verbs is crucial for a correct understanding. Therefore, the “us” of 8:38-39 is limited to believers who never stop believing in Christ. Truly, nothing can separate these continuous believers from the love of God.
1 Cor 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
As in Romans 8:38-39, to whom is Paul speaking when he says “you”? Is Paul promising that God will even confirm one-time professors of faith blameless?
The answer is “no.” In context, notice the participle in verse 2. Paul is addressing “those who are continuously calling upon” the name of the Lorde. They “are not coming short of any gift” [present tense] (1:7) and they are “continuously awaiting” the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ [present participle] (1:7). Therefore, Paul was not including those who later deny Christ and stop believing.
1 Cor 3:13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
1 Cor 3:13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
1 Cor 3:14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
1 Cor 3:15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. KJV
Eternal security advocates teach that the “wood, hay and stubble” of verse 12 include those who deny Chris and the gospel and will barely be saved “yet so as by fire.”
However, in context, verse 12 describes sincere believers who are continuously attempting to “build upon the foundation,” but do it wrong!!! The texts do not say they are denying Christ and His gospel. Again, the context is not about persons who stop believing the gospel and deny Christ.
But those are not the last words. Believers can go beyond “building upon the foundation” and become “one” with prostitutes (1 Cor 6:15-16). God promises to “destroy” those believers (1 Cor 3:17). In Matthew 5:27-30 believers who do not cut off offending body parts will end up in hell.
by which also ye “are being saved” [passive], if [ei: fact] ye “are holding firm”
[present] in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
True believers are continually “being saved” only as long as they are “continuously holding firm” to what they believed by faith. God would never describe a true believer’s faith as “in vain” if none could ever fall from grace.
“Freed” believers can “be entangled again with the yoke of bondage” if they do not “stand fast.”
22 Gal 5:18 CON But if [ei: factual] ye “are continuously being led”
[participle] of the Spirit, ye are continuously [present tense] not under the law.
Those who cease being led by the Spirit again fall under the law as a means of salvation.
Romans 8:14, Galatians 5:18 and 5:25 oppose eternal security because they teach that believers can cease being continuously led by the Spirit and still remain saved.
…
Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, “when you heard and kept on hearing” [past participle] the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also “when you believed and kept on believing” [past participle], ye “were being sealed”
[past passive] with that holy Spirit of promise,
Eph 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. KJV
Since past tense participles are used to indicate continuous action in the past, the two participles teach that the “hearing” and “believing” were not, and are not, one-time professions of faith. As long as believers were “continuously hearing the truth” and “continuously believing” in Christ, they were “continuously being sealed” by receiving the indwelling Holy
Spirit. “Continuous believing” (faith) is the condition of receiving salvation.
The seal was a stamp of certification; it was not a restraint which kept one from escaping. For example, the seal on Jesus’ tomb was made by a ring on poured wax. Rather than prevent entry into, or out of, the tomb, if broken, it was evidence of violation. All family seals were broken when the next member died.
“Being sealed,” a Greek aorist (past) passive verb, denotes “continuous sealing” in the past. The ones who had been continuously “hearing: and continuously believing” “were being continuously sealed.” As discussed in 1 Cor 3:17; 6:15-16 and Matthew 5:27-30, believers who have been sealed and have the Holy Spirit can reject the Holy Spirit, stop continuously believing and can be destroyed and end up in hell.
God’s adoption is much different from western law. It takes place in two stages. The first stage “earnest,” or down-payment, is given conditionally to those who are “continuously believing.” The last stage, adoption of the body” will occur both at the rapture and at the second coming in glory.
…
Eph 2:8 For by grace ye are “having been saved” [perfect tense] through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.
Eternal security teachers point out the perfect tense, “having been saved,” as if it were an unchangeable position contrary to the escapable perfect tense of John 3:18.
Who are the “ye” to whom Paul is speaking? One-time professors of faith, or those who have not ceased continuously believing? “Having been saved is a description of those who continuously believe (maintain faith). See the texts under “Believing” and Romans 3:22.
Eternal security advocates teach that, if one could lose salvation and be saved again, one would have to be baptized again. And, since there can only be one baptism, the text proves that one cannot fall from grace.
Free Will Baptists teach that there can only be one baptism because those who fall from grace cannot be saved again per John 15:5-6 and a literal interpretation of Hebrews 6:4-6.
Again, as in 1:13, the “ye” who were sealed were those who have continuous faith (believing) and, like almost everything else in salvation, the sealing is “through continuous faith.” Christ dwells in the heart through the Holy Spirt “by continuous faith” (Eph 3:17).
In order to be consistent with scores of other texts, this must be limited to those who are continuously believing. Paul’s prayer for these saints suggests that not all were allowing God to finish His work in them. He prayed “that ye may (not would) approve things that are excellent, that ye may be (not will be) sincere and without offence till the day of Christ” (1:10). He continued “let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ … that ye “stand fast” in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (1:27). And he repeated “stand fast in the Lord” (4:1). Again, if one cannot fall from grace, there is no need to urge believers to “stand fast.”
If ye continue (remain) … grounded and settled and “are not being moved”
Only those believers who continue (remain) grounded, settled and unmoveable in their faith are now reconciled by God.
Those who are not “standing fast” in the Lord are not currently “living” in Him.
Even “perfected” believers are commanded to continue producing good works as evidence of their faith.
The subjunctive “eanper” means “probable,” not “factual.” Believers only have security as long as they “hold fast” “to the end.”
As in 3:6, “if’ is “ean” which means “probable.” Most should “hold fast,” but not all. Compare Matthew 24:13.
Ghost,
Heb 6:5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
Heb 6:6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. KJV
…
Heb 6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once “enlightened and continued being enlightened} [past tense participle], and “having tasted and continued tasting” [past tense participle] of the heavenly gift, and “having become partakers and continued being partakers” [past tense participle] of the Holy
Ghost,
Heb 6:5 And “having tasted and continued tasting” [past participle] the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
Heb 6:6 “Having fallen away and continued falling away” [past participle], to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they “are crucifying” [present tense] to themselves the Son of God afresh, and “are putting” him to an open shame.
Many eternal security advocates teach that this is an argument using reverse logic. They reason backwards from their position that none can fall from grace. Since it would be impossible to renew true believers who fall and deny Christ, then it cannot happen. Therefore, true believers cannot fall from grace!
However, the verses should be interpreted literally. Since Christ’s sacrifice for sins cannot be repeated, true believers who subsequently fall away and deny Christ cannot be saved again.
Heb 10:27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. KJV
…
Heb 10:26 For if we “are continuously sinning” [present participle] willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there “is continuously remaining” [present tense] no more sacrifice for sins,
Heb 10:27 But a certain fearful looking for (expectation) of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
The most common interpretation assumes that sacrifices could be brought for willful sins. However, willful sins were handled by the judicial system and not by the sacrificial system. There never has been, nor never will be, a sacrifice sinful man can bring for willful sins. As the text reads, “there remains no sacrifice for willful sins.” Jesus voluntarily became the Passover Lamb. The only thing left is a fearful punishment handed out by the judge. Discipline is the context. Continuously habitually denying Christ will result in falling from grace. See Matthew 10:33.
Believers whom God has stopped disciplining are no longer sons and have fallen from grace. In eternal security theology, this is not true of believer who stop believing and deny Christ. God does not continue to discipline them.
This is a warning to believers to “consider Christ” “lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds” (vs 3). Those believers have not resisted unto blood as Christ had (vs 4). “You have forgotten that God called you son” and promised to discipline His children (vs 5-7). Therefore, in context, verse 8 means “if you are no longer being disciplined, then you have fallen from grace and are now bastards.”
This is illogical if one has eternal security and cannot fall from grace because believers would always be partakers.
…
1 Pet 1:9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
What kind of faith? A one-time profession of faith? Or continuous believing? There are over 85 participles of the word, “believe,” which clearly teach that saving faith is the result of continuously believing. For example: John 1:12; 3:15, 16, 18, 36 and Romans 3:22.
Peter’s [subjunctive: probability] statement that the “trial of your faith might (not “will”) be found [subjunctive] unto praise and honor and glory at Christ’s appearing” is unnecessary if one cannot fall from grace.
…
1 Peter 1:23 “Having been born again” [perfect participle], not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth [participle] and abideth [participle] for ever.
Eternal security advocates like this text; it was my favorite. Since falling from grace would cause the Holy Spirit to become corrupted (which is impossible), none can fall from grace.
However, this text is not discussing eternal security. Rather, it is teaching the eternal nature of the Deity of the Person of the Holy Spirit who begat us. In verses 1:18-20, the blood of Christ is also described as incorruptible.
The passage is addressed to those “who by him believe in God” (1:21).
The Greek is the present participle, “to the ones continuously believing.” While believers, like all flesh (man or beast), may appear to wither, die and fade away (1:24), God’s word (or promises) to continuous believers is incorruptible and will remain for ever.
Those who continue walking in the light will continue having fellowship one with another and the blood of Christ will continue cleansing them from all sin.
The one continuously loving his brother is continuously abiding in the light and is not stumbling.
The one doing (habitually practicing) the will of God is abiding forever.
Believers who do no continuously abide in the gospel message do not remain in the Son. This contradicts the eternal security doctrine.
**48. 1 John 2:27 CON: But the anointing which ye have received of him “is continuously abiding” [present tense] in you … even as it (the anointing) hath taught you, ye “shall continuously abide” [future tense] in him.
1 John 2:28 And now, little children, “be abiding” [present imperative] in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his com0ing.
1 John 2:29 “Every one habitually/continuously doing” [participle] righteousness is born of him.
These texts are not necessary if it is impossible to fall from grace. They do not fit the eternal security description of true believers falling away into habitual sin and even denying Christ.
Eternal security advocates must ignore this text because they teach that true believes can stop obeying Christ and remain saved.
…
1 John 5:13 These things have I written unto you, “the ones continuously believing” [present participle] on the name of the Son of God; that [hina:
probable] ye “may know” (not “will know”) that ye “are having” [present tense] eternal life, and that [hina: probable] ye may know (not will believe) believe on the name of the Son of God.
Only those who are continuously believing can be assured that they are having eternal life. However, since not everybody currently believing will continue believing, as in John 3:16, the subjunctive is “may know,” and not “will know.”
Only “the one continuously remaining” in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.
Those who cannot fall from grace would not need to “hold fast.”
The subjunctive, “ean: if,” suggests that not all will hold fast and repent. But such command is illogical if one cannot fall from grace.
Interpreted literally, this must be discussing believers who already have their names in the book of life. If they do not continuously “overcome,” they will not be clothed in white raiment and will not be confessed before the Father. Compare Matthew 10:33.
IX
FALLING FROM GRACE
The following forty-eight (48) texts are examples of how and why believers can fall from grace. While a few may be questionable, the majority clearly teach that believers can indeed fall from grace. Since it only takes one example to destroy the doctrine of eternal security, 2nd Peter 2:20-22 is the best example.
God’s plan of salvation is the same in both testaments. Evidently Moses did not believe in eternal security. Otherwise, he would not have asked God to remove his name from the book of life. Since everybody’s name would be in the book of the physically living, Moses was not referring to physical death.
2, Ex 32:33 And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.
The name must be in the believers’ book of life in order to be blotted out. Only God (Jesus Christ) can be responsible and die for every sinner (Heb 9:26).
Eze 3:20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
…
Eze 18:24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.
The “righteous” are believers. When these believers “turn away from righteousness, commit iniquity, and do according to all the abominations that the wicked man does,” “he shall die in his sin and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered.”
Since unbelievers have no “savor” to lose, the text must be referring to real believers. “Ye” believers are the salt of the earth. When believers
“lose their savor,” they become “good for nothing,” are “cast out” and are “trodden under foot.” That is a description of one who has fallen from grace.
Matt 5:28 But I say unto you, That “every one continuously looking upon” [participle] a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Matt 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell (Gehenna, the lake of fire).
Matt 5:30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell (Gehenna, the lake of fire).
Since unbelievers are already destined for hell, Jesus must have been speaking to believers. In order to prevent offending body parts from causing the whole body to go to hell (Gehenna), the believer must remove them. In context, this includes castration.
This is addressed to believers. It is part of the disciples’ prayer. When believers/disciples continuously fail to forgive each other, they will either receive lesser rewards in heaven, or they will fall from grace if nonforgiveness of sins become extreme and habitual. The latter is far more logical.
“Whosoever” refers to both current believers and those who never believed. A literal interpretation and application of this verse leaves no room for debate. If one who has made a sincere profession of faith in Christ as Lord and Savior, afterwards stops continuously believing and denies Christ and His gospel, Christ will deny him before His Father and the believer will fall from grace. This is not eternal security doctrine.
Only true believers “receive the word with joy” and “for a while believe.”
The two participles must be interpreted as continuous action. The same believer who changes from continuously believing to continuously looking back is not fit for the kingdom of God. He has fallen from grace.
10 Luke 13:8 … I shall dig about it, and dung it:
Luke 13:9 And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
The fig tree represents believing Hebrews who later habitually fail to produce fruit. Exactly as in John 15:1-6, they will fall from grace.
John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it “is continuously abiding” in the vine; no more can ye, except ye “are continuously abiding” in me.
John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: “the one (continuously) abiding” [present active participle] in me, and I in him, the same “is bearing” much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
John 15:6 If [ean: probable] a man “does not continuously abide” in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
These verses are quoted by all Arminians to prove that believers can fall from grace. They do not describe mildly disobedient believers who are merely being disciplined by God.
God will “destroy” the believer who continually “defiles” (destroys) his/her own body. “Destroy” appears twice in the Greek. This is much stronger than mere discipline.
1 Cor 8:11 And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?
1 Cor 8:12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. KJV
Believers with knowledge can “sin against weak believers (the brethren),” “wound their weak conscience” and cause them to “perish.” This is illogical if it is only referring to physical death.
A “castaway” is not a crewmember who is merely being punished. A castaway is one who has been completely rejected, disowned and left to perish.
Every person who left Egypt with Moses had been saved. They were all under the cloud, all passed through the sea (10:1), all were baptized
(10:2), all ate the same spiritual food (10:3) and all drank of Christ (10:4).
1 Cor 10:5 -12
But God was not pleased with many of them and they were overthrown (10:5). They lusted (10:6), worshiped idols (10:7), fornicated (10:7), tempted Christ, were destroyed (10:9) and murmured and were destroyed (10:10). “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall (10:12).” See Jude 5 also. Again, this is illogical unless it refers to falling from grace.
Gal 3:2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
Gal 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?
Gal 3:4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.
This refers to believers who had “received the Spirit” (3:2). Those former believers had since become “bewitched” and had stopped obeying the truth (3:1). The only literal logical explanation for “in vain” is falling from grace.
When a “freed” believer is once again yoked, that believer is no longer “standing fast” and is no longer “free.” He has fallen from grace.
Speaking to the same former believers of 3:1 who had “since become bewitched” and “yoked” of 5:1, Paul says “Christ is become “of no effect “to you.” They had ceased believing in righteousness by faith and had turned to good works to be saved (5:2-3). Interpreted literally in context, verse 4 clearly states that they had fallen from grace as the only path to salvation.
Paul is still speaking to former believers whom Christ had made “free” (5:1). Former believers who subsequently habitually sin literally “shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
This is contrary to what the eternal security doctrine teaches. The doctrine knows nothing of believers crucifying the flesh after justification.
1 Tim 1:19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
…
1 Tim 1:19 “Continuously having” [present participle] faith, and a good conscience; which “some having continuously put away” [participle] faith have made shipwreck:
1 Tim 1:20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
While some believers are “continuously holding faith (believing)” [participle] and a good conscience, other believers “have continuously put away faith” (stopped believing) and have become “shipwreck.” “Shipwreck” means banishment — spiritual life stops. Paul delivered two of the latter group “unto Satan.”
1 Tim 4:2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron. KJV
“Some shall depart from the faith” refers to believers who were once in the faith. Their consciences have become seared with a hot iron must refer to believers who have fallen from grace.
**23. 2 Tim 2:12 If we suffer (and we shall suffer), we shall also reign with him: if we deny him (and some will deny Him), he also will deny us.
“We” refers to believers like Paul himself. Literally, those believers who later deny Christ will be denied by Him and fall from grace. See Matthew 10:33.
Paul’s long-time companion, Demas, abandoned him. This means he had probably stopped believing.
**25. Heb 3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
Interpret this literally. It means exactly what it says.
Heb 3:19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief (no faith, stopped believing).
See 1 Cor 10:1-10 for more context. These are former believers, not unbelievers.
“Us” are fellow believers. Since true believers who cannot fall from grace should have nothing to fear, this text is illogical for the eternal security doctrine. Again, see 1 Cor 10:1-10.
Everybody who left Egypt with Moses had believed and had been saved by the Passover Lamb. However most (over age 20) must have subsequently fallen from grace. They did not enter into Canaan, a symbol of heaven. Also see 1 Cor 10:1 -10.
Again, interpret literally. The eternal security doctrine does not teach that believers can fall from grace.
A literal interpretation teaches once-saved-then-lost-always-lost. A saved person who falls away and denies Christ cannot be saved a second time.
See Matthew 10:33 and 2 Timothy 2:12.
“God has no pleasure” in those who “draw back” unto “perdition” means He will not save them. This text must refer to believers “drawing back” because unbelievers are already destined for perdition. The participles are noteworthy.
This is a warning to believers to “consider Christ” “lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds” (12: 3). Those believers have not resisted unto blood as Christ had (12: 4). Next, they changed. “You have forgotten that God called you sons” and promised to discipline His children (12: 5-7). Therefore, in context, verse 8 means “if you are no longer being disciplined, you have fallen from grace and are now bastards.”
Believers who are not “making straight paths for their feet” risk becoming lame and being “turned out of the way.”
As discussed previously, the chapter is addressed to believers.
“Holiness” refers to continued believing which produces sanctification. Those believers who do not “follow peace and holiness with all men” literally shall not see the Lord. The instructions are meaningless if one cannot fall from grace.
…
Heb 12:15 “overseeing” (taking care) lest “anyone is continually falling” [present participle] “away from” the grace of God [and] lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.
Believers who are not “taking care” of their spiritual lives risk “falling short of the grace of God” and becoming “defiled.”
Esau probably fell from grace when he stopped believing God’s promises and gave up his birthright. The Bible says he was “rejected” and “found no place for repentance.”
Rom 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” When the “brethren” “fall into condemnation,” they have fallen from grace.
If eternal security were true, there would be no reason to tell believers to “be sober, be vigilant” and “resist steadfast” because the devil seeks to “devour” them.
Many true believers who have been “bought” by the Lord will become “false teachers” and “deny” the Lord.
2 Peter 2:21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
2 Peter 2:22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
Interpreted literally, these are the strongest texts in God’s Word which teach that true believers can subsequently fall from grace.
This is radically different from eternal security theology which states that once-saved, one cannot fall from grace.
“Beloved” believers are warned to “beware” “lest you be led away” and “fall from your steadfastness.”
Believers have to be “in the doctrine” in order to be warned to “abide” in it. Believers who do not “continuously abide in the doctrine of Christ “do not have God.” That is very clear! It does not allow believers to remain saved who later deny Christ and stop believing.
According to this text, all those who left Egypt had been saved by believing in the sacrificial blood of the Passover lamb. Many (if not most) who stopped believing were later “destroyed.” They did not enter Canaan (a type of heaven). See 1 Cor 10:1-10.
The fallen angels who had been created as sinless beings willfully sinned with full knowledge of sin’s consequences. They fell without any hope of restitution.
Many had “fallen” away from God and “left thy first love,” but not completely. However, they risked falling completely and having their candlestick removed from the presence of God.
Rev 3:4 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
Most believers in Sardis had fallen from grace. Only “a few” “remained”
“who had not defiled their garments.” And only those “few” will “walk with Christ in white.” See 3:5 and white garments of imputed righteousness.
The true believer already has his name in the Book of Life. The threat to remove it is meaningless if such an event cannot occur.
God threatened to “spew the lukewarm believer out of His mouth.” He “needs nothing” and does know that he is “wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked.”
X
SUMMARY
After studying the previous 48 verses, it is clear that believers can and do fall from grace, even after being commanded to abide, or remain, in the faith. God’s inspired inclusion of present tense participles demands that “by faith” be defined as “continuous believing.”
WHAT WE ARE OR HAVE BY CONTINUOUS FAITH (BELIEVING).
MOST TEXTS WITH GREEK PARTICIPLES,
(Greek: the one(s) continuously believing)
| Righteousness by Faith | Rom 3:22; 4:5 | |
| A son of God | John 1:12 | |
| Abide in light | John 12:46 | |
| Abraham is father | Rom 4:11 | |
| Access to God (faith) | Rom 5:2 | |
| Anointing | 1 John 2:22 | |
| Blessed | John 20:29 | |
| Born of God | 1 John 5:1 | |
| Christ dwells in heart (fait) | Eph 3:17 | |
| Christ is end of the law | Rom 10:4 | |
| Children of God (faith) | Gal 3:26 | |
| Conquering the world | John 5:5 | |
| Disciples | John 8:31 | |
| Do greater works | John 14:12 | |
| Eternal life | Jn 3:15; 1 John 5:13 | |
| Everlasting life | John 3:16, 36; 5:24; 6:40, 47 | |
| Exceeding power | Eph 1:19 | |
| Fellowshipping | Acts 9:26 | |
| Grace of God | Acts 18:27 | |
| Hope of righteousness (faith) | Gal 5:5 | |
| Imputed righteousness | Rom 4:24 | |
| Jesus’ disciples | John 8:31 | |
| Just live (faith) | Rom 1:17; Gal 3:11; Heb 10:38 | |
| Justification (faith) | Rom 3:24, 28; 3:30; 5:1; Gal 3:24 | |
| Justification by faith | Acts 13:39; Rom 4:5 | |
| Life | John 11:25; 20:31 | |
| Living waters | John 7:38 | |
| Miracle worker | Mark 9:23 | |
| Never die | John 11:26 | |
| Never thirst | John 6:35 | |
No judgment John 3:18
Not ashamed Rom 9:33; 10:11
One heart Acts 4:32
Peace with God (faith) Rom 5:1
Promise by faith Gal 3:22
Purification (faith) Acts 15:9
Ready at second coming 2 Thess 1:10
Remission of sins Acts 10:43
Righteousness (faith) Rom 3:21; Phil 3:9; Heb 11:7
Righteousness Rom 10:10
Salvation Mark 16:16; Rom 1:16; 1 Cor 1;21
Sanctification (faith) Acts 26:18
Sealed Eph 1:13
Self-witness of faith 1 John 5:10
Sharing Acts 2:44
Sons of God John 1:12
Standing (faith) Rom 5:2; 11:20; 2 Cor 1:24
Suffer for Christ 1 Tim 4:10
Turns to Jesus Acts 11:21
Walk (faith) 2 Cor 5:7
Word effectually works 1 Thess 2:13
TEXT REFERENCES:
| MATT 5:13 | FALLING FROM GRACE |
| MATT 5:27-30 | FALLING FROM GRACE |
| MATT 6:15 | FALLING FROM GRACE |
| MATT 10:33 | FALLING FROM GRACE |
| MATT 24:13 | ETERNAL SECURITY |
| MATT 28:19-20 | ETERNAL SECURITY |
| MARK 9:23 | BELIEVING |
| MARK 16:16 | BELIEVING |
| LUKE 13:8-9 | FALLING FROM GRACE |
| JOHN 1:12 | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 3:15, 16, | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 3:18, 37, 38 | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 3:21 | ABIDING |
| JOHN 3:36 | ELIEVING |
| JOHN 4:14 | ETERNAL SECURITY TEXT |
| JOHN 5:24 | BELIEVING, ET SEC TEXT |
| JOHN 5:38 | ETERNAL SECURITY |
| JOHN 6:35 | BELIEVING, ET SEC. TEXT |
| JOHN 6:37 | BELIEVING, ETERNAL SEC |
| JOHN 6:40, 47 | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 6:64 | BELIEVING, ET SEC TEXT |
| JOHN 7:37-38 | BELIEVING, ET SEC TEXT |
| JOHN 7:38 | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 8:31 | BELIEVING, ABIDING |
| JOHN 10:27-28 | ETERNAL SECURITY TEXT |
| JOHN 11:25, 26 | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 12:46 | BELIEVING, ABIDING |
| JOHN 14:12 | BELIEVING |
| JOHN 15:5, 7, 10 | ETERNAL SECURITY |
| JOHN 20:29, 31 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 2:44 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 4:32 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 9:26 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 10:43 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 11:21 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 13:39 | BELIEVING |
| ACTS 13:43 | ETERNAL SECURITY |
| ACTS 18:27 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 1:16 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 1:17 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 3:21-24, 26 | BELIEVINGS |
| ROM 3:22 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 4:5, 11 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 4:5, 24 | BELIEVINGS |
| ROM 4:8 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 5:1-2 | BELIEVINGS |
| ROM 8:1 | BELIEVINGS |
| ROM 8:14 | ETERNAL SECURTY |
| ROM 8:23 | BELIEVINGN |
| ROM 8:28-29 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 8:38-39 | ETERNAL SECURITY TEXT |
| ROM 9:33 | BELIELVLING |
| RDM 10:4 | BELIEVING |
| ROM 10:10, 11 | BELIEVING |
| 1 COR 1:21 | BELIEVING |
| 1 COR 3:12-15 | ETERNAL SECURITY |
| 1 COR 3:17 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| 1 COR 11:28-30 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 COR 15:1-2
|
ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| GAL 3:1 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| GAL 3:1-4 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| GAL 3:22 | BELIEVING | |
| GAL 3:22,26 | BELIEVING | |
| GAL 5:1 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| GAL 5:4-7, 19, 24 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| GAL 5:18, 25 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| EPH 1:5 | BELIEVING | |
| EPH 1:13 | BELIEVING, ET SECURITY | |
| EPH 1:19 | BELIEVING | |
| EPH 3:17-20 | BELIEVING | |
| EPH 4:5 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| PHIL 3:9 | BELIEVING | |
| COL 1:21-23 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 THESS 2:13 | BELIEVING | |
| 1 THESS 3:8 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 2 THESS 1:10 | BELIEVING | |
| 1 TIM 1:18-20 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| 1 TIM 4:10 | BELIEVING | |
| 2 TIM 2:12 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| 2 TIM 4:10 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| TITUS 3:9 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| HEB 3:6, 14 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| HEB 3:18-19 | FALING FROM GRACE | |
| HEB 4:6 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| HEB 6:4-6 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| HEB 6:4-6 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| HEB 8:28 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| HEB 10:26-27 | ETERNAL SECURITY TEXT | |
| HEB 10:38-39 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| HEB 11:6 | BELIEVING | |
| HEB 12:7, 8, 10 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| HEB 12:13-15, 17 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| JAMES 2:17, 26 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| 1 PET 1:1-5, 9 | BELIEVING | |
| 1 PETER 1:7 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 2 PET 1:6-10 | BELIEVING | |
| 2 PET 2:20-22 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| 1 JOHN 1:7 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 JOHN 2:6, 14, | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 JOHN 2: 24, 27, 28 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 JOHN 2:10, 17, 29 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 JOHN 2:18-19 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| 1 JOHN 3:6, 15, 24 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| 1 JOHN 5:1, 5, 10, 13 | BELIEVING | |
| 1 JOHN 5:12 | ETERNAL SEECRITY | |
| 2 JOHN 9 | ETERNAL SECURITY | |
| JUDE 5 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| REV 2:5 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| REV 3:2 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
| REV 3:5 | FALLING FROM GRACE | |
This book uses Greek participles as the primary method of teaching that salvation is the result of continuous faith. God’s use of Greek participles proves that saving faith is continuous faith and also correctly interprets most texts used to support one-time professions of faith and eternal security. Aware of the underlying presence of continuous participles, I now feel free to allow the literal interpretation of God’s Word to speak.
Other Books by Russel Earl Kelly, Ph. D.
Should the Church Teach Tithing
Exposing Seventh-Day Adventism
From Gethsemane to Ascension
Russell Earl Kelly, PH. D.
1211 Bluefield Ave Elizabethton, Tn 37643 russkellyphd@yahoo.com
706-401-1276
