The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, posed a thought-provoking question: “Am I genuinely a Christian?” This query prompts us to introspect and evaluate our beliefs and actions. It’s not about scrutinizing others but about self-reflection. There are individuals who are utterly convinced of their Christian identity, yet, in reality, they might be far from it. This misperception is one of the most pressing issues in the church today.
Many base their assurance of salvation on past actions, like a prayer they once said or a pivotal moment when they felt they came to Christ. However, this perspective is problematic as it places the foundation of salvation on human actions rather than the grace of God. True salvation is rooted in the person of Jesus Christ, not in our deeds or past experiences.
The Bible emphasizes two fundamental tenets for salvation: repentance and belief. Repentance isn’t just about feeling remorse for sins; it’s about acknowledging and turning away from them. It’s a continuous journey, not a one-time event. Repentance is about changing direction, turning away from sin and towards God. On the other hand, belief looks beyond oneself, focusing on Jesus Christ, the Savior. It’s about recognizing our need for salvation from sin and seeking it in Christ.
