Sin displeases God, and as mere sinful creatures, humans naturally experience a continuous reality of their condition and of how far they are removed from righteousness. If allowed and viewed appropriately, a doubt of assurance can lead to an admiration of the Lord, humbleness, and surrendering to the Lord and His will.
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
The Reformation’s predominant principle was grace. Paul’s emphasis on the importance of grace in salvation influenced Luther’s and Calvin’s views on the role of sola gratia.
Adhering to the teachings of “by grace alone” lifts a burden on mankind, realizing they can never earn salvation. The customary teaching of the Reformation underscored faith and not works. Grace relates to assurance, a tenet many struggle with. J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) argued, “All God’s children have faith: not all have assurance. I think this ought never to be forgotten.”[1]
Naturally, this discussion becomes complicated as sin enters the conversation. To be saved solely by grace does not imply consent to openly live in sin. Paul addresses this in Romans 6:
What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Romans 6:1-2
Further studies in James, 1 John, and 2 John solidify the fact that repentance is necessary for a believer’s life, bearing the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Walking daily with the Lord plays a role in sanctification, trusting in Him, and denying the ways of the flesh.
Genuine faith in Jesus Christ not only changes the mind of a Christian but also adjusts the priorities of their lives. Many people doubt their salvation, which alone proves the stain of sin in humanity; this is the devil’s work and validation that believers must grab onto the idea of assurance. J.C. Ryle wrote: