Are You Saved?
In Reformed theology, assurance of salvation (or being "saved") is a significant aspect of one's faith, rooted in several key doctrines:
1. Sola Fide (Faith Alone): Salvation is by faith alone, not by works. According to Reformed theology, you know you are saved by placing your trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. This faith is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust in Christ's atoning work on the cross for forgiveness of sins and justification before God.
- Scriptural Basis: Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."
2. Sola Gratia (Grace Alone): Salvation comes solely through God's grace. Your assurance comes from understanding that salvation is a gift from God, unearned and undeserved, which He bestows freely to those He has called.
- Scriptural Basis: Romans 3:24, "and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus."
3. Perseverance of the Saints: Commonly known as the "P" in TULIP (an acronym for Five Points of Calvinism), this doctrine asserts that those who are truly saved will persevere in faith until the end. Assurance can be found in the ongoing presence of faith and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit in your life.
- Scriptural Basis: Philippians 1:6, "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."
4. The Testimony of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God (Romans 8:16). This internal witness is often described as a deep, personal assurance that one belongs to God.
- Scriptural Basis: 1 John 5:13, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life."
5. Fruits of Faith: While not the basis of salvation, the presence of fruits like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control can serve as evidence of the Spirit's work in your life, thus providing assurance of your faith.
- Scriptural Basis: Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law
To know you are saved in Reformed theology:
Examine your faith: Do you trust in Christ alone for salvation?
Reflect on God's grace: Have you experienced God's unmerited favor in your life?
Consider your perseverance: Do you see a pattern of growing in faith and obedience?
Listen to the Holy Spirit: Do you feel an internal assurance that you are God's child?
Look for spiritual fruit: Are there signs of transformation in your life?
Remember, assurance isn't always a constant feeling but can be a settled confidence based on these theological truths. If doubts persist, it's beneficial to seek counsel from a pastor or spiritual mentor within the Reformed tradition, who can guide you through Scripture and personal reflection.