You do not hear the name John Calvin as much in today’s religious culture as in days past. The doctrine of the perseverance of the saints is not as popular as it once was. However, you do still hear some preachers proclaiming the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, also called “Once saved; always saved.” John Calvin was the great promoter of this doctrine. There are several verses used by Calvinists to defend this doctrine. In John 10:28-29, Jesus said that no one could snatch them (those the Father had given Him) out of His Father’s hand. These verses teach that no one else can snatch (grab or swipe) a soul from God. Yet, it does not say or imply that an individual cannot choose to leave God’s saving grace. It is a false interpretation to say that this verse teaches otherwise. Another verse used to teach this doctrine is found in Ephesians 1:13. “In Him you also trusted…, in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise.” In Ephesians 4:30, it says that Christians are sealed “for the day of redemption.” In 2 Corinthians 1:22, this seal is called a “guarantee.” From these verses it is taught that once a person is “sealed with the Holy Spirit,” then that person cannot become “unsealed.” However, the word “sealed” (sphragizo) is commonly used to mean a stamp such as a letter sealed by wax and a signet or some other type of seal meant to

“…Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people” (Luke 2:10 NKJV). These were the words the angels used to announce the birth of Jesus to the shepherds in the field. The word “gospel” is from the Greek word “euagglion.” “Eu” means “good,” and “aggelos” means “to announce.” This was indeed good news to those who were watching for the coming of the Messiah. The good news is seen in the fact that Jesus would save people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). It is called the Gospel of peace in Romans 10:15. In 2 Timothy 1:10 Paul spoke of God’s purpose, which was planned before time began, and “…has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” The good news for mankind is found in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). His sinless life, His sacrificial death and His return from the grave to live for eternity is the one and only hope that mankind has in this world. It is only through Him that we have the promise of God for eternal life. John said, “And this is the promise that He [God] has promised us—eternal life” (1 John 2:25). There is no partiality in this, but all of every nation who fear God and work righteousness are accepted by Him (Acts 10:34-35). The writer of