Saved by Grace, Kept by Obedience

In the New Testament it is made clear that all men are sinners (Romans 3:23) and that hell awaits them (Mark 9:43; Luke 12:5). But it is just as clear that God wills to bring salvation and that he has brought it in the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of his Son. The love of God is the mainspring (John 3:16; Romans 5:8). Regeneration is the "birth" by which this work of new creation is begun, as sanctification is the "growth" whereby it continues (1Peter 2:2; 2Peter 3:18). Regeneration in Christ changes the disposition from lawless, Godless self-seeking (Romans 3:9-18; 8:7) which dominates man in Adam into one of trust and love, of repentance for past rebelliousness and unbelief, and loving compliance with God's law henceforth. It enlightens the blinded mind to discern spiritual realities (1Corinthians 2:14-15; 2Corinthians 4:6; Colossians 3:10), and liberates and energizes the enslaved will for free obedience to God (Romans 6:14, 17-22; Philippians 2:13).