Can a Christian really know that he is saved? And when doubts arise, where should the believer look for assurance?

In this episode of Written and Read, Dr. Robert Crowder and McKenzie Fleming examine the biblical doctrine of assurance of salvation and an important distinction that Christians sometimes miss: eternal security describes the security of the believer's salvation in Christ, while assurance describes the believer's confidence in that security. Beginning with 1 John 5:11–13 and Jesus’ words in John 10:27–30, they show that God does not leave His children dependent upon changing emotions to determine whether they belong to Him.

The believer's assurance rests upon the finished work of Jesus Christ and the promises God has given in His Word. Feelings change. Spiritual struggles come. Christians sometimes fail and require confession, correction, and restoration. Yet none of those things means Christ has abandoned those who belong to Him. Scripture directs the believer away from confidence in his own ability to keep himself saved and toward confidence in the Savior who keeps His own.

Primary Scriptures

1 John 5:11–13; John 10:27–30

Secondary/Supporting Scriptures

John 3:16; John 5:24; John 6:37–40; Romans 6:1–2; Romans 8:1, 31–39; Ephesians 1:13–14; Ephesians 4:30; Philippians 1:6; Hebrews 12:5–11; 1 Peter 1:3–5; 1 John 1:9