From the Elder's Pen "Things We Need Remember About Salvation" 5/12/02 Past/Future Articles

     It’s Meaning – The basic meaning of the word salvation is “deliverance.”  There are different words to define and describe salvation in the New Testament: (1) Redemption (to release or set at liberty; Colossians 1:14; Ephesians 1:7);  (2) Remission (a dismissal of sins, a release; Acts 2:38; Matthew 26:28);  (3) Reconciliation (to change from a state of enmity to a state of friendship with God; II Corinthians 5:17-21);  (4) Justification (to pronounce righteousness, an acquittal; Romans 3:26).
     Its Need – The desperate need by man of salvation is found in one word – SIN.  Sin is a transgression of God’s law (I John 3:4).  All accountable people have sinned (Romans 3:9-23).  Separation from God, bondage, condemnation and guilt result from sin (Ephesians 2:12; Isaiah 59:1-2; John 8:31-36; Genesis 3:1ff).  Eternal separation from God is the ultimate consequences of sin if no salvation is obtained (Romans 6:23; II Thessalonians 1:6-10).
     Its Basis – Jesus Christ, the Son of God, His virgin birth, sinless life, vicarious death, mighty resurrection and glorious ascension and coronation at God’s right hand – is the basis for man’s salvation and redemption.  In a summation of the Gospel facts, Paul affirms, “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.”  (I Corinthians 15:3-4)
     Its Location – The New Testament identifies and specifies the church as the place of salvation.  The Bible says that the saved are added to the church (Acts 2:47).  Jesus is the savior of the body (church) (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23).  Jesus purchased the church with His own blood (Acts 20:28).
     Its Terms – Hearing the message of salvation is essential (Romans 10:17).  Believing in Jesus is a must (John 8:21-24).  Repentance is commanded of all (Acts 17:30-31).  Baptism based upon a confession of faith in Christ completes the steps in the divine plan (Romans 10:9-10; Mark 16:15; Romans 6:1-4).  - RK-