Are You Truly Saved?

Salvation is the most crucial concern of the human soul. In his sermon Your Most Imminent Concern, Paul Washer delves deeply into this topic “How can I know if I am saved?”, addressing how we can know with certainty whether we are truly saved. Grounded in 1 John 5:11-13, this message provides clear, biblical insight into the evidence of salvation and the assurance that comes from being in Christ.

“And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.” – 1 John 5:11-13

The Foundation of Salvation

Paul Washer begins by emphasizing that salvation is the work of God. Eternal life is a gift from God, found solely in His Son, Jesus Christ. No amount of good works, religious rituals, or moral behavior can secure salvation. It is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

The apostle John writes that eternal life is found in having the Son. This means trusting in Jesus’ atoning sacrifice on the cross, repenting of sin, and believing in His resurrection. Salvation is not about what we do, but about what Christ has done on our behalf.

The Big Question “How Can I Know If I Am Saved?

Evidence of Salvation

How can we know we are saved? Washer explains that the Bible provides clear evidence of genuine faith. These evidences are not the means of salvation but the fruit of it.

1. A New Heart and Desires
   Salvation begins with regeneration—a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit that transforms our hearts. A saved person will love God and desire to obey Him. They will hate sin and long for holiness.
2. Ongoing Repentance
   True believers will continually turn away from sin and seek God’s forgiveness. Repentance is not a one-time event but a lifelong process.
3. Love for Others
   John repeatedly emphasizes love as a mark of salvation. Genuine Christians will demonstrate love, compassion, and selflessness, especially toward fellow believers.
4. Perseverance in Faith
   A true believer will persevere in their faith, holding fast to the truth of the Gospel even in trials. Paul Washer reminds us that salvation is not proven by an emotional experience but by enduring trust in Christ.

Assurance of Salvation

Washer cautions against basing assurance of salvation on feelings or external achievements. Instead, assurance comes from the promises of Scripture. 1 John 5:13 assures believers that they can know they have eternal life. This certainty is grounded in God’s faithfulness and the finished work of Christ.

However, self-examination is essential. Paul Washer urges us to regularly evaluate our lives in light of God’s Word. Are we bearing the fruits of salvation? Are we growing in Christlikeness? Assurance comes not from perfection but from the evidence of God’s transforming work in us.

A Call to Examine Yourself

Paul Washer’s sermon concludes with a solemn call to examine ourselves. The question of salvation is too important to leave unanswered. Washer challenges us to look beyond superficial religiosity and ask:

• Do I trust in Christ alone for salvation?
• Has my life been transformed by His grace?
• Do I see evidence of His work in my heart and actions?

If the answer to these questions is uncertain, turn to Christ today. Repent of your sin, believe in His sacrifice, and seek His transforming power.

Conclusion

Salvation is God’s greatest gift, and He desires for us to know with certainty that we are saved. As 1 John 5:11-13 reminds us, eternal life is found in Christ alone. Paul Washer’s sermon challenges us to examine our hearts, embrace the Gospel, and rest in the assurance of God’s promises.

May we live each day in humble gratitude, seeking to glorify the One who has given us life in His Son.

![Image: A tranquil path through a forest, symbolizing the journey of faith.]

Full sermon: Your Most Imminent Concern by Paul Washer