Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Overview:Salvation, in Christian theology, refers to the deliverance from sin and its consequences, achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a central tenet of Christian belief, emphasizing the grace of God and the necessity of faith. The concept of calling on the Lord for salvation is rooted in the acknowledgment of human inability to achieve righteousness on their own and the need for divine intervention.
Biblical Foundation:The Bible consistently affirms that salvation is available to all who call upon the name of the Lord. This promise is encapsulated in several key scriptural passages. In the Old Testament, the prophet Joel declares, "And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved" (
Joel 2:32). This prophetic assurance is echoed in the New Testament, underscoring the continuity of God's redemptive plan.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul reiterates this promise in his epistle to the Romans: "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (
Romans 10:13). This verse highlights the universality of salvation, extending the invitation to all, regardless of background or previous transgressions.
Theological Significance:The act of calling on the Lord signifies a personal and conscious decision to seek God's mercy and grace. It involves repentance, faith, and a commitment to follow Christ. This calling is not merely a verbal expression but a heartfelt plea for divine intervention and transformation.
Salvation is described as a gift from God, not earned by human effort but granted through faith in Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This underscores the belief that salvation is an act of divine grace, accessible through faith.
Role of Jesus Christ:Central to the doctrine of salvation is the role of Jesus Christ as the Savior. His sacrificial death and resurrection are the foundation of the Christian faith, providing the means by which humanity can be reconciled to God.
John 14:6 records Jesus' declaration, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This affirms the exclusivity of Christ as the mediator between God and humanity.
Response and Responsibility:While salvation is a gift, it requires a response from the individual. This response involves repentance, a turning away from sin, and a turning towards God.
Acts 2:21 reiterates the promise, "And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved," emphasizing the necessity of personal action in seeking salvation.
The believer's life post-salvation is marked by transformation and growth in holiness. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live in accordance with God's will, producing the fruit of the Spirit as evidence of their faith.
Conclusion:The promise of salvation for those who call on the Lord is a profound assurance of God's love and mercy. It invites all to experience the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ, offering hope and eternal life to those who believe.