In the past couple of days I’ve had the opportunity to converse with two individuals who have recently received Christ as Savior. Their tone of voice is different; their countenance is different; their purpose for life is different. They are a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). They have truly been regenerated by the power of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God (Titus 3:4-7).
In that same amount of time, I’ve had the opportunity to hear the salvation testimonies of folks who have been following Christ for a many years. How wonderful to listen as they recounted their salvation experience. Some came to Christ early as a child and others later on in life. Some even mentioned their anticipation of seeing Christ as well as loved ones in Glory some day, maybe even today.
That leads me to ask a question. If someone were to engage you in conversation and asked you to share your testimony of salvation, would you be able to give them an answer straight from the pages of Scripture? Could you do as 1 Peter 3:15 says, But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. How would you answer someone who asked for a reason why you have the assurance of salvation? Please, seriously consider what I am asking of you. Since we are born again through the Word of God, Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever (1 Peter 1:23), then you should be able to take the Word and show how you know that you are truly born again. The Word is our authority, our assurance; not our experience, where we are or who we are with or any other reason.
So, sir, ma’am, teen, child, give me a reason why you know you are saved, and take it straight from Scripture. Write it down right now. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth (John 17:17). Only truth sets us apart unto God. Only truth sets you free (John 8:32), and Truth is Jesus Christ (John 14:6). So, what’s your reason?
From A Pastor's Heart 