Salvation

Mark 16:15-16

Introduction

1.      Time should bring about a clearer understanding, but in religious matters the opposite seems to be the case

2.      Consider the understanding of the Bible as the Word of God

3.      Consider the matter of sin

4.      Consider the matter of salvation  

Discussion

1.      The reality of sin

a.       Sin is not determined by how one feels – Jer 17:9; Prov 14:12  

b.      Sin is the breaking of God’s law – e.g. Eve, the Ten Commandments  

c.       Sin is the result of negligence to do good – James 4:17  

2.      The result of sin

a.       Death was the original punishment for the original sin – Gen 2:17  

b.      There are often other consequences, as well – see, for example, Gen 3:14-19  

c.       Death is still the punishment for sin – Rom 6:23  

3.      The reality of forgiveness

a.       Forgiveness requires that one have “access” to God – this is often assumed, as for example, “If I ask, won’t God forgive me?” – see Is 59:1-2 – Israel was required to bring a “sacrifice of atonement”  

b.      Jesus is the door – 1 John 2:1-2  

c.       Faith in the gospel is the key to the door – this is the point of Mark 16:15-16  

d.      Baptism is the requirement for admission – this, again, is the point of Mark 16:15-16  

4.      The result of forgiveness

a.       Life instead of death  

b.      Hope instead of despair  

c.       Joy instead of sorrow  

Conclusion

1.       Salvation is difficult because we must first of all confront the fact that we are in the wrong

2.      Salvation is difficult because we must approach God in humility

3.      Salvation is easy because God is always willing to forgive those to whom He has granted access