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QUESTION 54
In 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 and Galatians 5:18-21 Paul discusses inheriting the kingdom of heaven. He goes on to list examples of some things which will prevent us from entering. If this is true, how could one know if he is saved for certain?

ANSWER:
The verses you have mentioned is not in the context of salvation, but our Christian walk. It is confusing to mix the two. Paul in writing to the Corinthians and Galatians is exhorting them to live in a manner that is becoming to the gospel that has saved them. He then shows them the walk of the unregenerated and exhorts them not to walk after them.

If we were to base our salvation on our conduct, then we would be setting aside the work of Christ and make it depend on us. Salvation is a relationship and must not be confused with our walk.

Though believers can commit these same sins, it is not, and should not be, the habit of their lives. If they slip and confess it immediately to the Lord, then, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

If we do not confess them, but live on in habitual sin, He will chastize us. 1 Corinthians 11:30-32 "For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.  For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world."

The Lord, in His wisdom, uses the standard of the unsaved, to exhort His people to live the opposite.  Every believer should be walking in newness of life Romans 6:4. It is always wise to see each verse in the context in which it is written. Often much false doctrine is taught from verses out of context.

Dear Reader, "Are you saved and are you walking like a Christian should walk? You can try to walk like a Christian and yet not be one. Ye must first be born again. John 3:7. Apart from the new birth there is no spiritual and eternal life.

All comments and questions to: Harold Smith

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Updated July 2009, by Shelly Allen