I. INTRODUCTION
B. Salvation Only Through Faith in Jesus (Romans 3:24-26)
C. Salvation Defined
1. Deliverance from the power and effects of sin.
2. Past, present, and future aspects (Acts 15:11; Ephesians 2:5; Titus 3:5).
3. A continual process in this life.
D. New Testament Salvation: Three Explanations
1. Reply to Nicodemus (John 3:3-5)
a. The present aspect of the kingdom of God: the rule of God in the hearts of men.
b. The future aspect of the kingdom of God: God’s eternal rule in heaven and on earth.
c. Entering into the kingdom of God means salvation.
d. The new birth involves water and Spirit.
2. Reply on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:37-39). Repentance, water baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost.
3. Reply to the Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:30-34). Belief on Jesus, water baptism, experience of rejoicing.
4. Comparison of the three explanations: They are equivalent.
E. Approach in Study and Teaching
1. Those who have experienced the new birth according to Acts 2:38 need to understand the significance of what has happened to them.
2. Those who have not experienced Acts 2:38 need to understand its importance and necessity.
a. We do not condemn them or deny any past experiences with God, but we wish to lead them into further truth.
b. It is a great privilege, opportunity, and right to receive this experience. It is God’s plan for today.