Koinonia | Apostle Joshua Selman | 2011
In this foundational teaching, Apostle Joshua Selman addresses the concept of assurance of salvation, a critical aspect of the Christian faith. He explains the divine revelation of salvation as a secure and eternal gift from God, rooted in grace and sustained by God’s faithfulness. This message is a call to believers to embrace the certainty of their salvation, live confidently in their relationship with Christ, and fulfill their divine mandate.
Key Scriptures
- John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
- Apostle Selman underscores that salvation is a demonstration of God’s love and an irrevocable promise to those who believe.
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.”
- Salvation is a gift from God, not earned by works but received through faith.
- Romans 8:1 – “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus…”
- Assurance of salvation removes condemnation and gives believers confidence in their standing with God.
- 1 John 5:11-13 – “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life…”
- Apostle Selman emphasizes the certainty of eternal life for those who believe in Christ.
Key Themes of the Message
1. Understanding Salvation
- The Nature of Salvation: Salvation is the deliverance of mankind from the penalty, power, and presence of sin through the finished work of Jesus Christ.
- The Work of Grace: Apostle Selman highlights that salvation is initiated by God, made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus, and applied to the believer by the Holy Spirit.
- Eternal Security: Once genuinely saved, a believer’s salvation is secure in Christ. However, this security does not promote licentiousness but inspires love and obedience to God.
2. The Assurance of Salvation
- Assurance is the confident knowledge that one’s salvation is eternal and unshakable. This confidence is based on:
- The Word of God: Scripture declares salvation as a settled reality for all who believe.
- The Finished Work of Christ: Jesus’ death and resurrection guarantee salvation for all who place their faith in Him.
- The Witness of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit of God bears witness with the believer’s spirit, affirming their sonship (Romans 8:16).
3. Common Doubts and How to Overcome Them
- Feelings of Unworthiness: Apostle Selman explains that salvation is not based on human merit but on God’s grace.
- Struggles with Sin: While sin can cause believers to question their salvation, Apostle Selman emphasizes that sanctification is a journey. Repentance and reliance on the Holy Spirit are key.
- Misinterpretation of Scripture: He encourages believers to study the Word diligently and seek counsel to dispel confusion about their salvation.
4. Living in the Reality of Salvation
- Confidence in God’s Love: Assurance of salvation allows believers to rest in the unfailing love of God, free from fear or condemnation.
- Bold Witnessing: Secure in their salvation, believers are empowered to share the gospel without hesitation.
- Commitment to Holiness: Assurance is not a license to sin but a call to reflect the character of Christ in gratitude for His gift.
Practical Steps to Walk in Assurance
- Understand the Word: Meditate on scriptures about salvation, such as John 10:27-29 and Romans 10:9-10, to build confidence in God’s promises.
- Cultivate Intimacy with the Holy Spirit: Apostle Selman encourages believers to spend time in prayer and worship, allowing the Holy Spirit to reinforce their assurance.
- Fellowship with Other Believers: Regular fellowship strengthens faith and provides encouragement.
- Confess Your Identity in Christ: Speak life-giving affirmations, such as, “I am saved, I am loved, and I am accepted in Christ Jesus.”
Challenges to Assurance
- Legalism: A works-based approach to salvation undermines faith in God’s grace.
- Sin-Consciousness: Excessive focus on personal failures can hinder believers from embracing God’s forgiveness.
- Lack of Understanding: Ignorance of scripture leads to unnecessary fear and doubt.
Conclusion and Prophetic Charge
Apostle Selman concludes by affirming the unchanging love and faithfulness of God. He encourages believers to:
- Rest in the finished work of Christ.
- Embrace their identity as sons and daughters of God.
- Walk in the liberty and power that salvation brings.
“Salvation is not just an event; it is a journey of transformation that begins with grace and ends with glory,” Apostle Selman declares. “Be confident in this: He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion!”
Through this teaching, believers are reminded that salvation is God’s irrevocable gift, giving them a foundation to live with boldness, joy, and purpose.
It takes a relationship between you and the Holy Ghost for you to birth ideas that change nations.
Apostle Joshua Selman
