A Brief Book Summary from Books At a Glance
by Steve West
Table of Contents
1 Timeliness and Relevance
2 Confessional Reconnaissance
3 Three Controversies
4 Perseverance and Admonition
5 Perseverance and Prayer
6 Perseverance and Temptation
7 The Consolation of Perseverance
8 The Reality of Perseverance
Summary
Chapter 1: Timeliness and Relevance
The relationship between faith and perseverance cannot be detached from the relationship between faith, justification, and sanctification. Perseverance of the saints is about the perseverance of those who are sanctified and justified; it has a specific focus and scope. According to this doctrine, a reality and relationship is entered into that cannot be reversed, and it is for life and eternity. Since human beings are so changeable and temporal, can there really be anything of such abiding constancy for us? There are many more questions surrounding this doctrine, and people on both sides of the issue can make a prima facie case for their view from Scripture. Perseverance does not mean that we will be exempt from every difficulty, but that we will overcome them. Yet Scripture is also filled with warnings about falling away. How do we balance out the data? It is vital that we hear and heed what Scripture says about the necessity of having a living, active faith. We must not try to hide in the doctrine of perseverance just to find comfort or exempt ourselves from the rigor of a life of faith in Christ. If the doctrine is merely a deduction of logic in our theological system, we need to make sure we are not subordinating the living Word to our doctrinal convictions. Perseverance is not a logical postulate, but a confession of faith. It stands tall over our finite limitations, weaknesses, and fears. It is a song of praise to God, as we worship him for his eternal faithfulness. . . .
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