Perseverance of the Saints with Matt Slick, Part 5

The teaching questions the Calvinist doctrine of "Perseverance of the Saints," also known as "Once Saved Always Saved," by suggesting that salvation should be viewed not as a past event but as a future promise that hinges on continued faith and abiding in Christ. It challenges the notion that believers are incapable of falling away, advocating instead for a perspective that allows for the possibility of individuals choosing to "detach from the vine" and walk away from their faith.

Shawn's teaching emphasizes that the Christian journey involves perseverance, with salvation viewed as a future event contingent upon continued faith and adherence to Christian principles. He argues against the "once saved always saved" doctrine, suggesting that final salvation is achieved through faith, fruitful living, and abiding in Christ, affirming that promises in Scripture are conditional on such perseverance.

Shawn teaches that continued faith is essential for salvation, challenging the notion of "once saved, always saved." He supports this idea with scriptures that warn against apostasy, emphasizing that believers can indeed turn from their faith, defying the Five Points of Calvinism.

Shawn teaches that while genuine Christians are not constantly at risk of apostasy since God equips, protects, and remains with them despite failures or faithlessness, the possibility of abandoning faith for the world still exists due to God's love for liberty and freedom. He explores complex theological questions about God's omniscience, election, and human responsibility, challenging the notions of predestination and limited atonement, questioning whether it aligns with God's love and justice, and how it impacts the idea of salvation accessible to all.

Shawn critiques Calvinism and other systematic theologies for promoting division, elitism, and proof-texting, which detracts from the essential Christian ideal of unconditional love. He emphasizes embracing all who understand the Biblical Good News and argues that a focus on love is more crucial than theological correctness.