by Steve Higginbotham
When someone begins a sentence by saying, “The only thing necessary to be saved is…” you can know that they are in error and will eventually employ double-talk. There is no “alone” in the salvation process. It takes a combination of things, on man’s part as well as God’s part, to accomplish this wonderful event.
We are not saved by “grace alone,” but we are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:5). If we were saved by “grace alone,” all men would be saved, for Paul wrote that the “grace of God which brings salvation has appeared to all men” (Titus 2:11). Yet, the Bible teaches that some, in fact, many, will be lost (Matthew 7:13-14).
We are not saved by “faith alone,” but we are saved by faith (John 3:16). However, what efficacy would faith have if it were not for God’s grace? If “faith alone” could save, it would eliminate the need for God’s grace.
We are not saved by “baptism alone,” but we are saved by baptism (1 Peter 3:21). However, baptism without faith or without God’s grace would only result in one being wet. Baptism requires faith in the working of God for it to be effective (Colossians 2:12).
According to the Bible, our salvation does not “arise” from any work that we have done (Titus 3:4-5; Romans 5:8). However, while salvation does not arise from any meritorious human effort, it must be appropriated by our cooperation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Without responding to God’s grace with a living faith (James 2:26), God’s grace will profit us nothing (2 Corinthians 6:1).
Brethren, be careful not to hold a position that requires double-talk. If we say we are saved by [anything] “alone,” we will have to back up and deny our position if questioned. Salvation requires two parties – God and man. The scheme of redemption had its beginnings in the gracious, compassionate love of God without our help or contribution. But having said that, our salvation is not completed until we respond to the divine conditions of pardon set forth in Scripture. There is just no “alone” in the accomplishment of our salvation.