Faith Alone

A Word of Truth #044  

There will not be a single soul in hell because it was not saved. There will be many souls in hell because they have rejected the salvation won by Christ Jesus when He died on the cross.

God declares the whole world righteous in His sight because of Jesus’ death on the cross. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. However, the forgiveness accomplished by Christ for all comes personally to individual sinners by faith. We are told concerning Abraham’s faith, “Abraham believed God, and it (his faith) was accounted to him for righteousness” (Romans 4:3).

We are not saved by our “good” life and the work we do. Paul wrote, “Therefore, we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law” (Romans 3:28). Nor does our faith come from us, but is a gift of God’s grace. “By grace you have been saved through faith, and that, not of yourselves it is the gift of God…” (Ephesians 2:8).

Scripture Alone

A Word of Truth #045  

Who or what is the final authority upon which you base your religious beliefs? Do you base them upon the pronouncements of the church, or a single member of the church, such as the Roman Pontiff or the Mormon Prophet? Do you look to ancient traditions or modern gurus? Do you rest your faith upon inner feelings or personal opinions?

God directs us to one infallible authority in spiritual matters—the Bible. He tells us through St. Paul that “all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Jesus tells us, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed, and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31-32) Scripture alone will provide you a solid foundation for your faith life!