We have been studying the Five Central Points of the Gospel that have been immortalised in the word TULIP. Each letter of that word is the initial letter of the 5 statements of the doctrines set forth in the Bible. Today we come to the final letter, P. It stands for PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS.

* This is contrary to the notion that many believe, that a Christian can fall away and be lost! Such a view does not come from the Bible!

1. The meaning of perseverance

The dictionary says of this word: Endurance, persistence, steadfastness. These words describe the spirit of the saints of God. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down (hurl away): for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread,”  Psalm 37:23-25. (Compare verses 35-40).

We can be sure that we will not fall PERMANENTLY — “Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me,” Micah 7:8. Is not that most reassuring!

2. This perseverance is not of man but it is of the Lord.

Many have excused themselves from obeying the gospel by saying ‘Oh I could never keep it!’ This is the devil’s deception. No man could keep on to heaven by his own strength. The Larger Catechism asks the question:

Question. 79. May not true believers, by reason of their imperfections, and the many temptations and sins they are overtaken with, fall away from the state of grace? Answer. True believers, by reason of the (1) unchangeable love of God, and (2) his decree and covenant to give them perseverance, their inseparable (3) union with Christ, his (4) continual intercession for them, and the (5) Spirit and seed of God abiding in them, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace, (6) but are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

3. There are many Scriptures supporting this statement.

I will close our studies on this subject by quoting them to you: 2 Samuel 23:5. Jeremiah 31:3. Jeremiah 32:40. Luke 22:32. John 10:28. 1 Corinthians 1:8-9. 2 Timothy 2:19. Hebrews 7:25, 13:20-21.1 John 3:9. 1 Peter 1:3-5.