By Franklin Burns
Many major denominations teach justification by faith only. James, an inspired man of God, said, “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified and not by faith only” (James 2:24). Which will you accept, that of an inspired man of God or that of some denomination?
There are many verses in God’s word that teach we are saved by faith. Consider Romans 5:1; John 5:24; John 3:16; and John 3:36. The New Testament of Jesus Christ certainly teaches that we are saved by faith. I believe this with all my heart. But there is not one verse which teaches we are saved by faith only! If you know of a verse that you think teaches “salvation by faith only,” please let me know.
If salvation is by faith only, that would exclude repentance (Acts 11:18) which the Bible says is “unto life.” It would exclude confession which the apostle Paul says is “unto salvation” (Romans 10:9-10). It would exclude baptism which the word of God says is “for the remission of sins” (Acts 22:16); is “to put one into one body” (1 Cor. 12:13); is “to put one into Christ” (Gal. 3:27); and is to “save us” (I Peter 3:21). Are you willing to accept all that the word of God has to say is essential to our salvation’.’ Remember we will be judged by His word in the last days (John 12:48).
If salvation is by faith only, the chief rulers of John 12:4243 who would not confess Christ will be saved. Also the Jews of (John 8:31-44) will be saved, but, they were the children of the devil. Even the demons of James 2:19 will be saved if salvation is by faith only. Do you really believe the devils will be saved! If not, you do not really believe that salvation is by faith only!
We plead with you, if you are lost, to obey the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is the power of God unto salvation (1 Peter 4:17-18; 2 Thess. 1:7-9; Romans 1:16). If your faith is not strong enough to move you in obedience to the truth, you will be lost eternally (John 8:32; 1 Peter 1:22; Romans 6:17-18).
“So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).
Truth Magazine, XVIII:49, p. 7
October 17, 1974