Glass Street church of Christ

site last modified
February 26, 2008

DOES BELIEF ALONE SAVE?

by Randy Meyer

Almost all professing to be a Christian feel they know or can quote John 3:16. Its seems this is one of the most well known of all scriptures. You even see poster at sporting events which say nothing more than “John 3:16”. However, many do not actually quote this passage but rather misquote such.

John 3:16 states “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.” There are those which want to exchange the correctly translated (from the original Greek manuscripts) “…should not perish…” for the more personally acceptable but not accurately translated “…shall not perish…” Many claim there is no difference in these terms. However, I suggest that there is a GREAT deal of difference. In addition, there is a HUGE problem with such alteration of the scriptures. Not only because the terms have entirely different meanings but that it is even acceptable to some to alter the Holy Word of God to suit their own desires.

Consider for a moment the very simplistic statement, “If you believe what the police say about safety/security, your home shall not be burglarized.” By such a single statement, all you must do to keep a thief out of your home is to believe in safety. Nothing more. Now consider “If you believe what the police say about safety/security, your home should not be burglarized.” Why “should” it be safe from intruders? Because your belief will cause you to do all that the police say to be safe/secure. You will lock your doors and windows (because the police said you should). You install motion lights outside, timers on inside lights, join a neighborhood watch, etc. (because the police separately advised and instructed you to take such measures to be safe/secure). In short, your belief causes you to accept all that such authority states on the subject and you act accordingly.

Why is it then, when it comes to spiritual matters, this a difficult concept? Why, in John 3:16, do some think that “should” and “shall” are synonymous terms but do not deem such in their daily lives? Simple answer, its easier… no effort on your part.

Now look to the question “Does Belief Alone Save?” Most in the denominational world would answer “Yes”, even though the Bible, which they claim to follow, states otherwise.

In Acts 8:1 & 9:1, we find the apostle Paul severely persecuting the Lord’s church. Did he do so because he held no religious belief? On the contrary, he had great belief and further states in Acts 23:1 that he had lived before God in all good conscience. (Also see Acts 23:6, Acts 26:1-11, and Phil. 3:5-6). Did his belief make him or his actions right with God and therefore saved? NO…His beliefs which he held prior to his conversion were wrong. He showed a true belief in God’s commands when he accepted and obeyed such.

In Acts 26:27-28, King Agrippa believed but failed to act on such belief and therefore not a Christian. James also states “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19). But are they saved… NO. How could those in the 1st century, as well as many today, believe and not be saved? Because they fail to act on their belief and obey what is required. True spiritual belief demands our obedience to all His commands. Mark 16:16 states “…he that believeth not shall be damned.” Why? If you do not believe, you will not obey.

Have you truly believed and therefore obeyed Christ’s commands to be save? If not, why not today? Please contact us or attend any of our services to discuss putting your belief into an obedient practice.