In John 3:1-3 we read the account of Nicodemus, a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews (vs 1), who came to Jesus by night. He confesses that Jesus is a teacher from God citing the miracles that Jesus did as proof that God was with Him (vs2). Then in verse 3 Jesus says “Verily, verily I say unto thee, except one be born anew he cannot see (experience) the kingdom of God” (ASV 1901). In this passage Jesus points out that the response to God for the salvation found in the Kingdom is an individual matter. One must be born anew or born again. We know from Romans 6:4 that newness of life follows our obedience to the gospel in baptism. No one can do it for us.
The individuality of our salvation is further stated in Phil 2:12 “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” and in 2 Cor. 5:10 we know that we will all stand before the judgement seat of Christ to answer according to what we have done whether it be good or bad.
The blessing of the oneness of salvation cannot be denied, however with it comes tremendous personal responsibility. God wants to save us ( 1 Tim 2:3-4). Will we do our part?
How God Saves – – Keep the Faith