In Matthew 19:16-25, Jesus encounters a rich young man who asks, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?” (Matthew 19:16, NASB). Jesus responds by reminding him of the commandments, which the young man claims to have kept from his youth. Then, Jesus challenges him with a difficult command: “If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me” (Matthew 19:21, NASB). The young man goes away grieving because he owns much, illustrating the difficulty of surrendering worldly attachments for the sake of eternal life.
After this encounter, Jesus turns to His disciples and says, “Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven… it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God” (Matthew 19:23-24, NASB). The disciples, astonished, ask, “Then who can be saved?” This question sets the stage for a discussion on salvation—who can attain it and how it is truly achieved.
Hope and Salvation: Rejecting False Answers
The question of salvation has prompted many interpretations and opinions over the centuries. However, Jesus’ answer highlights the need for divine intervention, stating, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26, NASB). Human efforts, wealth, or moral deeds alone are insufficient. Here, we examine several perspectives on salvation that fall short and contrast them with the truth presented in scripture.
1. The Infidel’s Claim: Denial of God and Salvation
Some claim that salvation is a myth, dismissing the need for God or the concept of eternal life. This view argues that there is no such thing as salvation, often relying on ideas like evolution or human self-sufficiency to explain life and its purpose. This perspective is dangerous because it erodes the moral foundation of humanity, reducing people to mere physical beings without spiritual accountability. Scripture warns us against such deception: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals’” (1 Corinthians 15:33, NASB).
Without belief in God, there is no basis for moral or spiritual growth. Rejecting God’s truth leads to a worldview devoid of hope and meaning, ultimately robbing humanity of its dignity. Infidelity, by denying spiritual responsibility, promotes a life without accountability and rejects the foundation of faith that leads to salvation.
2. The Universalist’s Belief: Salvation Without Judgment
The universalist perspective argues that all people will ultimately be saved because God is too loving to allow anyone to be lost. However, this view disregards the principle of justice, which is integral to God’s nature. Scripture clearly states, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23, NASB). Universalism ignores the reality of sin and its consequences, undermining the need for repentance and the transformative power of faith.
The Bible teaches that there is both justice and mercy in God’s plan. In Revelation 20:15, we read, “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (NASB). Salvation is available to all, but it requires a response—faith in Christ and obedience to God’s word.
3. The Moralistic Approach: Good Works Alone Suffice
Another common belief is that all morally good people will be saved, regardless of their faith in God or relationship with Christ. This view assumes that human decency is enough to earn eternal life. However, Jesus Himself taught that belief is essential: “He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned” (Mark 16:16, NASB).
Good works alone, though important, cannot replace faith in Christ. Morality without faith in God misses the core of salvation—acknowledging Jesus as Savior and Lord. As Paul explains, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9, NASB). Faith is foundational; good works are the fruit of a life transformed by grace, not the means of salvation.
4. The Calvinist’s Doctrine: Predestination and Limited Access
Some hold the view that God has preordained who will be saved, limiting salvation to a select few. This belief suggests that God, by His will alone, chooses who will receive grace and who will not, regardless of individual response. However, this doctrine conflicts with the scriptural teaching that God shows no partiality. In Acts 10:34-35, Peter says, “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him” (NASB).
The Bible reveals that God desires all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). Salvation is available to everyone who believes and obeys, not limited to a predetermined few. This inclusivity reflects God’s love and justice, allowing every person the opportunity to respond to His grace.
5. The Ordinary Religionist’s View: Salvation by Spiritual Experience Alone
Some suggest that salvation is achieved solely through a direct operation of the Holy Spirit, where individuals are “saved by faith” without any response or action on their part. However, this belief diminishes human responsibility and the role of personal faith. Jesus consistently called people to active faith, saying, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24, NASB). Salvation is not a passive experience; it requires an active commitment to follow Christ.
Paul emphasized the need for each person to respond in faith: “So then faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17, NASB). Faith is sparked by hearing God’s word and responding, rather than by waiting for a supernatural experience. Salvation is a partnership between God’s grace and our response in faith.
The Bible’s Teaching: Who Can Be Saved?
In contrast to these inadequate views, scripture presents a clear path to salvation:
- Those Who Believe the Word of God: Belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is foundational. Paul told the Philippian jailer, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household” (Acts 16:31, NASB). Faith is the first step toward salvation, opening the door to a relationship with God.
- Those Who Obey the Gospel: Faith without action is incomplete. Hebrews 5:9 tells us that Jesus “became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation” (NASB). Obedience to the gospel includes repentance, confession, baptism, and a life committed to God’s will.
- Those Who Are Faithful: Salvation requires endurance and faithfulness. Revelation 2:10 encourages believers, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (NASB). A commitment to Christ must persist throughout life, reflecting the depth and sincerity of our faith.
Conclusion: The Path to True Salvation
Salvation is a gift from God, yet it requires a response—faith, obedience, and endurance. Jesus’ words to the rich young man and His explanation to the disciples remind us that salvation is not achieved through human effort, wealth, or moral standing alone. Instead, “With God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26, NASB).
In seeking salvation, we must reject incomplete or erroneous answers that fail to align with scripture. The path to eternal life is clearly laid out in God’s word: believe in Jesus, obey His commands, and remain faithful to the end. This is the true way to salvation, a journey of faith that transforms our lives and leads us into an eternal relationship with God.
The Simple Gospel 