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On another thread, it was asked, Is Backsliding Possible? This is one way to cut to the heart of the difference between Arminianism and Calvinism, I think.If a person CAN backslide--i.e., be truly saved, then be lost--then Arminianism is at least partially right (I cannot recall if Arminianism would claim that the backslidden Christian could then repent and be re-saved).If a person CANNOT backslide, then the part of Calvinism is true (the OSAS).I feel confident that the Bible indicates that a person CAN fall away, be lost, backslide, etc. What I am NOT confident about is whether I can make a case that such a person could then come back to the Lord. (NOTE: I am making a distinction between a person sinning and repenting...and a person actually falling away from God, then getting saved again).

I agree with your basic premises.I can see how someone could make an orthodox case, from Scripture, for falling away from the faith and losing one's salvation (though I don't affirm that personally).

Here's the issue as I see it: At what point is a person backslidden? If you cuss? Maybe drink one too many glasses of wine? Harbor unforgiveness for a few days? Covet your neighbor's wife or his car or his ministry? Do you lose your salvation immediately after doing one of these things or are you given a grace period? If so, how many days? The I lose my salvation every time I willfully sin position has a fatal flaw. Not only does it completely nullify justification by faith, but it leaves no room for discipline and/or rewards. How can God rightfully chasten His children if they don't belong to Him the moment they sin?

By the way, Romans 1

One is saved as long as they believe.Forsake faith, lose salvation Charles A. HutchinsSenior Pastor SPWCCongregational Church of Godwww.spwc.church

Can this process be repeated?

I don't think backsliding and unbelief are the same.“‘Return, O backsliding children,’ says the Lord; ‘for I am married to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion.'”

Come on DD, as a preacher's kid I was saved in every revival. and was told I backslide a lot and was going to hell if I didn't 'pray thru again. So I did, again and again etc... Now I am smiling . Since I became a parent I know my sons will always be my sons. I have cried as I got them out of jail, as I got them sober or down from some stupid high, never once did I come close to disowning them.I read that my Heavenly father loves me once I was born into his family, he loved me as a son. All that said, I STILL do not know in my heart if my church taught me wrong or if I was just a prodigal?I am enjoying the input. But I do want to stay close to Him to cover all bases. Silly? maybe, but that is me. I know HIS decisions are above my paygrade. Some facts but mostly just my [email protected]/

You sinned! Missed the mark!

For clarification.....are you or someone suggesting....