Assurance of Salvation #34

Unfortunately, for those who claim that they are among God's elect, i.e. Calvinists, Reformed, & etc., there is no way to validate their election except by their good works. Thus, Calvinism, by default, becomes a religion where one must do good works to prove to others (and to themselves) that they are really saved. The end result is they can never be assured of their salvation until their lives are over, and, if they did "enough" good works, they are "in". But, if they failed anywhere along the way, then they will conclude that they must not have been a part of God's elect after all.

Sadly, for the Calvinist, they are trapped and bound to a life that is based on their performance rather than the power and grace of God.  Ironically, in the “P” of TULIP,  the emphasis is upon the believer’s faithfulness in persevering - not upon God’s power.  Thus, it is not much of a stretch to replace Perseverance of the Saints with Performance of the Saints.

So how does a Calvinist exhibit evidence that they are one of the elect? John Piper and his staff write: “We must also own up to the fact that our final salvation is made contingent upon the subsequent obedience which comes from faith." (see also: John Piper)

Please do not misunderstand me, there is nothing wrong with good works, but when a person starts “trusting” in their works, it can lead to a false sense of security and pride. The assurance of our salvation should never be based on the works that we have done, but instead, on what Christ has already done for us.

For any Calvinist reading this blog, my hope and desire is for you to know that Jesus loves you, and He died for you. God’s Word assures us of the following:  “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life..” 1 John 5:13.