The doctrine of assurance is a much needed topic among Christians. Some today have allowed this blessed doctrine to become a catch-word for “easy-believism.” Certainly there are many in our generation who are “assured” of their salvation because they have walked the aisle or prayed a prayer. Even though their lives have never shown any indication of saving grace, they remain convinced that they have assurance because of what they have done (praying a prayer, walking the aisle, etc.). True biblical assurance is never based on what we have done, but solely on what Christ has done.
In reaction to this abuse and misunderstanding of assurance, many Christians have abandoned it and, in doing so, have taken away the comfort and strength of the gospel itself. The recovery of a biblical understanding of assurance is vital for our day.
To this end, we have prepared two editions on the Doctrine of Assurance – this Spring issue and the Summer issue to follow. In this issue, we have placed the focus on Assurance itself. In the Summer issue, we will include other related aspects, including questions about perseverance and falling away. Also, this issue includes two articles that will have follow-up articles in the next issue. The first is “A Conversation on Assurance” by A. W. Pink. This “conversation” focuses on the person who refuses to honestly examine his conversion. “Another Conversation on Assurance” in the next issue will focus on the humble hearted believer and provide some indications of true conversion. Additionally, this issue includes an article by J. C. Ryle on “Assurance.” Ryle’s book on assurance is one of the best available and we only have space to include small portions. The next issue will include a article by Ryle that is really the 4th point of this article. We’ve titled it, “Reasons Assurance Is Not Attained.”
Thanks for your prayers and support for this ministry. With the Apostle Paul, we say, “He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ!” To Him be all the glory for His great salvation!
By His Grace, Jim & Debbie
Teaching Resources International 