There is not a more important topic to understand (and to understand correctly) than one’s salvation from sin. It is interesting how man has diverged into so many different ideas regarding salvation. Some of these diversions are deliberate; some are because of thoughtlessness.
One careless mentality among some is, “Once I get baptized, that’s really all that matters. If I follow God’s steps for salvation, which culminates in my baptism, then that’s really the main thing I need to do.” While following God’s plan that leads to one’s immersion into Christ is essential for man’s salvation, it does not end there. In fact, consider how each of God’s steps for salvation continues on even after one’s baptism.
Hearing is required for salvation and continues to be required for continuing salvation. One cannot be saved from his sins without hearing the gospel (Rom. 10:17; Acts 2:37; 4:4). However, even after being saved, one must continue to hear God’s word to continue in God’s salvation (Heb. 3:15; 5:11; 2 Tim. 2:15).
Believing is required for salvation and continues to be required for continuing salvation. One cannot be saved from his sins without believing the gospel (1 Cor. 15:1-4; Acts 16:31; John 3:16). However, even after being saved, one must continue to believe God’s word to continue in God’s salvation (Col. 1:23; 1 John 5:13; John 20:31; Rev. 2:10).
Repenting is required for salvation and continues to be required for continuing salvation. One cannot be saved from his sins without repenting of his sins (Acts 2:38; 3:19; 11:18; 17:30). However, even after being saved, one must continue to repent of sins that he commits to continue in God’s salvation (Acts 8:22; 2 Cor. 7:9-10; 12:21; Rev. 2:5; 16; 3:3, 19).
Confessing faith is required for salvation and continues to be required for continuing salvation. One cannot be saved from his sins without confessing his faith in Jesus (Matt. 10:32; Rom. 10:9; Phil. 2:11). However, even after being saved, one must continue to confess his faith in Jesus to continue in God’s salvation (Rom. 10:10; 1 John 4:2, 15; Heb. 4:14).
Being washed in His blood is required for salvation and continues to be required for continuing salvation. One cannot be saved from his sins without being washed in the blood of Jesus through baptism (Acts 22:16; 2:38; Rom. 6:3-4; 1 Cor. 6:11; John 3:5). However, even after being saved, one must continue to be washed in the blood of Jesus through faithful living and confession of sins to God (1 John 1:7, 9; 2:2; Heb. 9:14).