Salvation

This section explains Christians belief in Salvation. Following the mistake made by Adam and Eve, which led to evil entering the world, God offered salvation. This means that human souls can be saved from eternal punishment (or separation from God) and are allowed to enter Heaven to be in the presence of God.

In order for this salvation to happen, God set a process in motion:

• God gave His only Son, Jesus Christ, so that all humans could be saved.
• Jesus was a perfect human—he was without sin.
• God placed the sins of the world upon Jesus at his crucifixion.
• Jesus’ sacrifice led to reconciliation between God and humanity, meaning his death atoned for human sin and restored the possibility of eternal life with God.

Christians believe that this process demonstrates God's love and mercy, as He was willing to give His only Son for the salvation of humanity. It also illustrates God's forgiveness, offering humans a path back to Him.

Different Christian Views on Salvation

There are several different ways that Christians believe salvation can be achieved:

Salvation through Law (Good Works)

Some Christians believe that people can achieve salvation by following God's teachings and performing good deeds that please Him. This belief is often associated with:

• Living a moral life based on biblical teachings.
• Helping those in need through charity and acts of kindness.
• Following the Ten Commandments and Jesus’ moral teachings.

This belief is supported by James 2:26:

‘Faith without works is dead.’

Salvation through Grace

Grace is the unconditional love that God has for everyone. Some Christians believe that salvation cannot be earned through good deeds alone, but is instead a free gift from God that is received through faith in Jesus Christ.

‘For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith … it is the gift of God.’
— Ephesians 2:8

This view is often emphasised in Protestant Christianity, particularly in the teachings of Martin Luther, who argued that faith in Jesus Christ is the key to salvation.

Salvation through the Holy Spirit

Many Christians believe that the Holy Spirit plays an essential role in the process of salvation. The Holy Spirit:

• Guides Christians in their faith, helping them to live according to God's will.
• Encourages repentance, recognising that while all humans will sin, they can turn back to God and seek forgiveness.
• Transforms believers, making them more like Christ and strengthening their relationship with God.

This belief is supported by Acts 20:21:

‘I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.’

Conclusion

Different Christian denominations place varying emphasis on these aspects of salvation. While some focus on faith alone, others stress the importance of good works and moral responsibility. However, all Christians agree that salvation is made possible through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the cross.