The statement that one cannot be "unborn" as a defense to Once Saved, Always Saved has to be one of the most puzzling arguments presented. It is a completely illogical assertion for even in the natural, there is no such condition as being "unborn".Being born is the process whereby life is made manifest. The opposite of having life is not to be "unborn", but to be dead. Just as one dies physically when life is no longer present, one also dies spiritually when the life of Christ is no longer present within.
This truth is reiterated in the parable of the Prodigal Son. When the son returns from his rebellious, riotous living, the father states:
"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." Luke 15:11-24
The argument about being "unborn" is a strawman. No one is asserting that someone can be unborn. However, being separated from the life of Christ will result in spiritual death (this is discussed in more detail here).
Another correlation some attempt to make is that the spiritual new birth is a reflection of the physical birth. They say, "No matter what I do or how I disappoint him, my earthly father is always my father and I will always be his son. It is the same with God." Therefore, they claim that - just like your physical genetic relationships cannot be undone - neither can your spiritual relationships.
The problem with this assertion is that our relationship with God as His sons and daughters is not based on a us being His physical children. We are not children of God by natural birth, but by spiritual adoption through faith.
"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." I John 5:4
So, if our faith is what determines our relationship with God, the question becomes, "Can the foundation of one's faith change?"
We can draw back from faith: "Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." Hebrews 10:38
Faith can be overthrown: "Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some." II Timothy 2:18
You can cast off your faith: "Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith." I Timothy 5:12
One's faith can be put away and made shipwrecked: "Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck." I Timothy 1:19
Unlike our genetic make-up (which determines our earthly family), our faith - the basis for a relationship with God - can change. This is why God continually reminds us to remain faithful; salvation is the result of faith that endures to the end.
"Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." I Peter 1:5
"Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls." I Peter 1:9
This article is part of a 6-part series evaluating a doctrine referred to as Once Saved Always Saved, Eternal Unconditional Security, or Preservation of the Saints.
- God Doesn't Mince Words
- "IF"
- Salvation is a Result of Covenant
- God's Relationship With Man is Based on Covenant
- Was the Abrahamic Covenant Unconditional?
- Covenant Responsibilities
- Sealed Until the Day of Redemption
- A Candid Look at OSAS "Support"
- Eternal Life is a Gift
- Nothing Can Separate You From the Love of God
- You Cannot Be Unborn
- You Can Only Lose Fellowship with God
- You Can Only Lose Your Reward
- Predestined by God
- Eternal Life is "Eternal"
- All means ALL
- The ONLY Reason Salvation Can Be "Lost"
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