MISCONCEPTION:
Once saved always saved.
THE TRUTH IS:
The teaching - you cannot lose your salvation once you receive it - clashes with the Scriptures: “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling,” and “Let him who thinks he stands, beware lest he fall” (Phil. 2:12; 1 Cor. 10:12).
This false teaching comes from corrupting what is being said in 1 Corinthians 3:11-15. Yet, verse 17 states, “If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him” (Matt. 10:28).
Jesus also mentions that overcoming is necessary to not have your name erased from the book of life and also to not be hurt by the second death (Rev. 3:5; 2:11). In order to be saved, God's word says you must overcome by keeping Jesus’ works until the end (Rev. 2:26; Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Mark 13:13; 2 Tim. 2:12).
Some will be thrown into prison to be tested by God. They are told if they are faithful unto death, they will be given a crown of life, which is eternal life (Rev. 2:10).
Others are warned by God to repent and do the deeds (good deeds) they did before, if they expect to be saved (Rev. 2:5). Even Paul did not believe he was qualified for the resurrection of the dead (Phil. 3:11- 12). A person can come short of being saved, and that is why we should fear (Heb. 4:1).
Only the one who endures to the end keeping Jesus Christ’s words, works and deeds, and does God’s Will on this earth daily, will be saved (Matt. 10:22; 24:13; 2 Tim. 2:12; Mark 13:13).
For more on this subject click on one of the following:
Bible Study: Conditions for the Blood of Jesus
Bible Study: Lukewarm