- PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS their certain continuance in a state of
grace. Once justified and regenerated, the believer can neither totally nor
finally fall away from grace, but will certainly persevere therein and attain
everlasting life.
This doctrine is clearly taught in these passages, John 10:28, 29; Romans
11:29; Phil. 1:6; 1 Peter 1:5. It, moreover, follows from a consideration of
(1) the immutability of the divine decrees (Jeremiah 31:3; Matthew
24:22-24; Acts 13:48; Romans 8:30); (2) the provisions of the covenant of
grace (Jeremiah 32:40; John 10:29; 17:2-6); (3) the atonement and
intercession of Christ (Isaiah 53:6, 11; Matthew 20:28; 1 Peter 2:24; John
11:42; 17:11, 15, 20; Romans 8:34); and (4) the indwelling of the Holy
Ghost (John 14:16; 2 Corinthians 1:21, 22; 5:5; Ephesians 1:14; 1 John
3:9).
This doctrine is not inconsistent with the truth that the believer may
nevertheless fall into grievous sin, and continue therein for some time. (See
BACKSLIDE.)