Question to Claude:Where does Pastor John MacArthur stand on the issue of Eternal Salvation?Claude's answer:Pastor John MacArthur, a prominent evangelical pastor, theologian, and author, holds to the doctrine of eternal security, also known as the perseverance of the saints. This doctrine asserts that genuine believers, who are saved by grace through faith and sealed by the Holy Spirit, cannot lose their salvation.MacArthur's position on eternal security is rooted in his understanding of key biblical passages and Reformed theological principles. Here are a few key points that summarize his stance:
Genuine salvation: MacArthur believes that true salvation is entirely a work of God's grace, not dependent on human works or merit. When a person genuinely trusts in Christ, they are born again and receive a new nature.
Eternal security: MacArthur teaches that those who are truly saved are kept secure in their salvation by God's power, not by their own strength. He often cites verses like John 10:27-29, Romans 8:38-39, and Philippians 1:6 to support this view.
Perseverance: While MacArthur affirms eternal security, he also emphasizes the importance of perseverance in faith as evidence of genuine salvation. He teaches that true believers will continue in their faith and exhibit spiritual growth, even though they may experience struggles and failures.
Warnings against apostasy: MacArthur interprets the warning passages in Hebrews and elsewhere as addressing professing believers who are not genuinely saved. He believes these warnings serve as a means of exposing false faith and urging self-examination.
In his book "The Gospel According to Jesus," MacArthur writes, "The Bible teaches that the evidence of God's work in a life is the inevitable fruit of transformed behavior (1 John 3:10). Faith that does not result in righteous living is dead and cannot save (James 2:14-26)."
While MacArthur's views on eternal security are shared by many Reformed and evangelical Christians, it's important to note that there is debate within Christianity on this topic. Some traditions, such as Arminianism, believe that salvation can be lost through apostasy or willful sin.