Question:
Dr Lindstrom, Our pastors sermon last Sunday was “staying connected”. His main scripture reference was John 15:1-10. Basicaly,the jest of the sermon was you can not have eternal savation if there is no evidence of your bearing fruit. He also gave tis verses: Luke 13:6-9,Matthew 25:26-30 ,Romans11:22. He was the rest of the outline: What action does Jesus say God will take on the person who does not bear fruit? vs 2 Is this teaching consistent with the context of John 15? vs 6 Is this doctrine supported by other scripture? Luke 13:6-9 , Matthew 25:26-30, Romans 11:22 How important is it for each of us to stay connected to christ?(vs 4,5,6,7,9,10 Whose responsibilty is it to stay connected to Christ?
Answer:
The statement, “you can not have eternal savation if there is no evidence of your bearing fruit.” IS A FALSE STATEMENT. The correct statement would be “You cannot be my DISCIPLE unless you bear MUCH FRUIT.” SEE JOHN 15:8 There is great difference between being SAVED and being a DISCIPLE. There is a vast difference between coming to Jesus for salvation, and coming after Jesus for service. Coming to Christ makes one a believer, while coming after Christ makes one a disciple. All believers are not disciples. To become a believer one accepts the invitation of the gospel, to be a disciple one obeys the challenge to a life dedicated service and separation. Salvation comes through the sacrifice of Christ; discipleship comes only by sacrifice of self and surrender to His call for devoted service. Salvation is free, but discipleship involves paying the price of a separated walk. Salvation can not be lost because it depends upon God?s faithfulness, but discipleship can be lost because it depends upon our faithfulness. DEHAAN, M.R. Hebrews. Zondervan Publishing House, 1959.(p.117)