By: Pastor/Teacher James R. Paxton
It is sad that so many perceive salvation is merely a pass to Heaven when they die. It truly is all that, but so much more. Salvation is a way of life that honors God and is honored by God. It is a priceless possession purchased for the believer by Jesus Christ by the giving of His own precious blood of Calvary’s Cross. It was a sacrifice offered by Jesus, the Lamb of God in the giving of His life’s blood that was the only sacrifice that would satisfy the penalty of sin.
Salvation only comes through the blood of Jesus, because the blood of Jesus is the only thing that can completely cleanse you of all sin. It activates the forgiving power of God to cast forth the sin into the sea of forgetfulness to be remembered no more. It liberates you from the power of the devil and brings you into a relationship with God the Father and Jesus Christ.
Salvation is a package deal. Jesus purchased for us a covenant relationship with God that is even better than the covenant that Abraham had. Throughout the New Testament, Jesus illustrates what salvation includes. It includes healing of sicknesses and diseases and also our infirmities. It makes available to the believer the infilling of the Holy Ghost which is evidenced by the speaking in unknown tongues.
Salvation also gives the believer authority over demons to the point of casting them out. 3 John 2 is sharing with us the will of God when it comes to prosperity over poverty. The Word declares: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” There is a condition that measures the fullness of that Scripture when the verse concludes by saying “even as thy soul prospereth.” That condition is in the control of the believer. As you draw closer to God; as you offer praise and worship Him; as you study the Word of God and exercise your faith in believing it, then you will certainly prosper and be in health in a greater way.
Salvation also provides an open prayer to God through Jesus Christ and gives you the assurance that God hears your prayers. Salvation also makes available to the believer the joy of the Lord and the peace that passes understanding. Of course, the devil will do everything he can to cause you to doubt that God loves you that much or that you are worthy of such blessings. Of yourself you aren’t but it is the grace of a merciful God that sheds that wonderful love on you. It is available to anyone and everyone who will believe the Word of God and call upon Him in earnest prayer. I have given you a sampling of the value of salvation but as you seek God and study His Word you will find that there is much more. How precious to God are those that have received His beloved Son as their Savior. Be one!
Maranatha!
