Definition and Importance
Salvation inquiry refers to the exploration and understanding of the concept of salvation as presented in the Bible. It involves seeking knowledge about the means, process, and implications of being saved from sin and its consequences. This inquiry is central to Christian theology, as salvation is considered the ultimate goal of human existence and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Biblical Basis
The Bible presents salvation as a gift from God, made possible through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, salvation is frequently associated with faith in Jesus and repentance from sin. 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."

Old Testament Foreshadowing
The concept of salvation is foreshadowed in the Old Testament through various covenants and deliverances. The Exodus narrative, where God delivers the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, serves as a powerful symbol of salvation. Isaiah 53:5 prophesies the suffering servant, "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed."

New Testament Fulfillment
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the central figure of salvation. John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel message: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Jesus' sacrificial death and victorious resurrection are the foundation of Christian salvation.

Means of Salvation
Salvation is accessed through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 10:9 emphasizes the necessity of confession and belief: "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." This faith is accompanied by repentance, a turning away from sin and a turning towards God.

The Role of Grace and Works
While salvation is a gift of grace, the Bible also speaks to the transformative effect of salvation on a believer's life. James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." Good works are seen as the fruit of a genuine faith, not the means of earning salvation.

Assurance of Salvation
Believers are encouraged to have assurance of their salvation. 1 John 5:13 provides comfort: "I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life." This assurance is based on the promises of God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Eternal Implications
Salvation has eternal implications, offering believers the hope of eternal life with God. Revelation 21:4 describes the ultimate fulfillment of salvation: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away."

Conclusion
The inquiry into salvation is a profound journey that encompasses understanding God's grace, the necessity of faith, and the transformative power of the Gospel. It is a central theme of the Christian faith, offering hope and assurance to believers.