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That would be nice if I believed in the "once-saved-always-saved heresy". Fact is I don't. I believe in Perseverance of the Saints (POTS). POTS states that "theoretically" it's possible for God to reject us. The flip side is that God won't do so simply because He keeps us. Why would God save us and then drop us like a ball of wax? Didn't He KNOW how we would turn out?

Any good works that I may do is simply because of God working through me. Granted, I can make this easy or difficult on myself, such as Jonah. God will for me will not be stopped just because I decide to go one way than the way God wants me to go. God will bring me around. At what precise point do you think that God will stop reproving you to let your "free will" kick in?

Many people, including my Protestant brethren, seem to think that God gives a command and then moans when we don't follow through. What utter nonsense to talk about our majestic God in such terms.

The flip side is that God won't do so simply because He keeps us

Wheter you call it perseverance of the saints, it is still extrascriptural nonsense. For example, in 7816 you committed a mortal sin, violating one of the ten commandments. According to your version of "perseverance" thare is not consequence to you because you salvation has already happened and even, your sainthood has already be achieved. This is arrogant nonsense. Obviously, you had a choice in 7816 to bear false witness or not bear false witness. You had been informed many times what Trent did or did not forbid, and you have access to the materials from Trent. You cannot plead ignirance. It is entirely possible that one day you will recognize your action as sinfuil and repent of it. That will be the day god brings you around. Till then, you are not saved.

POTS states that "theoretically" it's possible for God to reject us. The flip side is that God won't do so simply because He keeps us. Why would God save us and then drop us like a ball of wax? Didn't He KNOW how we would turn out?

Harley, your definition of "saved" is what is causing your confusion. It is clear from the Scriptures that all those who are saved - YOUR definition (that one-time proclamation) - ARE NOT OF THE ELECT!

Proof? Matthew 7:21. "Lord, Lord..." Now, note that Paul says no one can say "Lord, Lord" without the Holy Spirit present within them. Also, Paul is addressing Christians, as is Matthew. Thus, the message is clear. Just because you enter the Church and get baptized and receive the Holy Spirit to say "Lord, Lord", doesn't mean you will be ETERNALLY SAVED!

Scripture has different defintions of "saved". It is clear from the entire Bible that entering the church, being 'saved', your definition, does NOT constitute guaranteed eternal life. There are TOO MANY verses that counter that idea.

Faith without works is dead. Why would anyone care about works if faith alone saved?

Regards