That one is saved by faith is clearly taught in the Sacred Text (John 3:16; 20:30-31; Acts 10:43; 16:31; Romans 5:1). However, one is not saved by faith only, separate and distinct from other works of obedience. To illustrate, we live by breathing, but not by breathing only. We must eat, sleep and exercise. In like manner, we are saved by faith, but not by faith only (James 2:24). We must also repent (Luke 13:3), confess Christ (Matthew 10:32-33) and be baptized (Mark 16:16). If salvation is by faith only, the following would obtain:
1. The sinner would be saved before calling on God. "How shall they call on him in whom they have not believed?" (Romans 10:14). This states that before one can call on the Lord he must have faith. But if one is justified at the point of faith only, then he would be saved before calling on the name of the Lord. Yet, Paul says, "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).
2. The sinner could be saved without confession. "Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God" (John 12:42-43). Here are men believing, yet who would not confess Christ. Can those who thus believe but who will not confess Christ be saved? Christ said, if one fails to confess me before men, I will not confess him before my Father (Matthew 10:32-33).
3. The sinner could be saved before coming to God… "For he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6). This verse plainly declares that before one comes to God he must believe. Therefore, if one is saved at the point of faith, separate from other acts of obedience, he would then be saved before he comes to God.
In view of these observations based on the Word of God, let us cease to hear, "Only believe and fall down by your radio, 'or' just believe and hold up your hand." -2704 Battlement Drive, N.E., Tuscaloosa, AL 35406