Introductory Thoughts
Self-examination serves as a tool for man to use to find out who and what he is. Though some preachers suggest that believers should never question their own salvation experience, the scripture encourages self-examination. If there are doubts, believers should certainly ask questions concerning the basis for their salvation. Was it based upon one’s feelings or solely upon the scriptures? They should ask what they did in order to be saved. Did they join a church, do some penitent work, or did they call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ by faith as dictated by the scriptures? They should ask about the effects of their salvation. Have they seen a change of heart, or are they the same that they were before trusting Christ as Saviour?
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): The Bible is the only book that definitively reveals how to get to heaven (Acts 16:30-31; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). We must believe what it says, not what we want to believe (Proverbs 14:12).
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(For everyone): Why is it important for believers to examine themselves concerning their salvation experience? What benefit can be derived from this examination?
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What could be the danger of teaching others to refuse to call their personal testimony into question? Why did Paul admonish the Corinthian believers to examine themselves?
Prayer Thoughts
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Ask the Lord for wisdom to be able to examine your salvation.
- Ask God to give you a scriptural foundation for your salvation.
Song
ARE YOU WASHED IN THE BLOOD?
