Q: A couple weeks ago you fudged that answer about God erasing names out of the book of life. Were you on Valium, because I don’t think you ever said “yes” or “no”?

A: Yes, three weeks ago I did avoid a direct answer concerning the possibility of names being erased from the Lamb’s book of life. No, I was not on Valium. I was on coffee, which some consider to be a mild form of Christian crack. Don’t laugh. Some of you flat out refuse to attend church services without a coffee shop in the foyer.

What I did was offer counsel to those who like to straddle the fence, to simply abide in Jesus Christ. After 33 years of studying the scriptures, I have come to this conclusion: If there were a TV game show pitting eternal security against giving up your salvation, I believe I could debate myself using scripture, and win either way. The only reason the question exists is because of those who act saved but are actually not, and those who appear lost but are actually born again.

Are these middle of the road, questionable people live, or are they Memorex? Are they born again of the spirit, or simply pretenders? God only knows for sure, but there is something within us that just has to know. We don’t have to know about us. It is what we know about them that causes us to wonder.

I have an inner caution in my conscience about providing a false sense of security for those on the fence.

Personally, I believe an authentic Christian is born of an imperishable seed. (See 1Pet 1:23.) Christians are brand new creations, and old things of who they were have passed away. New things have come, and we are now reconciled to God through faith in Jesus Christ. (See 2Cor 5:17‑21.) With that kind of security, why would I ever care about how close to the edge of the cliff I could walk without falling?

Jesus said, “If anyone abides in Me he will bear much fruit.

If anyone does not abide in me they will burn.” (See John 15:1‑6.) Abiding believers are the only legitimate believers. The question is, do I want to burn, or bear fruit? I choose the latter and I hope this answer satisfies you people at City Plywood. You were the only ones doing your homework who realized I never answered that question, but merely offered counsel. Abide and be happy.

We’re currently registering people for our February 2008 Tour of the Holy Land. Join us in Israel, as our Bibles will go from black and white to living color. People from many churches have joined us before. Perhaps it’s your turn.

Contact us at (623) 374‑5655.

Acts 17:10‑11

Reach Pastor Huck at calvarycorner.com