Can I Lose My Salvation?

Can I Lose My Salvation? examines the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, addressing whether those who are truly converted can lose their salvation and how believers can find assurance amid spiritual struggle.

Part of the Crucial Questions series, this booklet by Dr. R.C. Sproul surveys the biblical, theological, and historical dimensions of the debate over eternal security. Sproul traces the controversy through the Reformation era and into later church disputes, noting the range of positions held by Roman Catholic, Lutheran, and Reformed theologians. He gives careful attention to key biblical passages—including the warning texts in Hebrews 6 and 2 Peter 2—alongside promises of God’s preservation found in passages such as Philippians 1:6 and John 17.

Sproul distinguishes between assurance of present salvation and the perseverance of the saints, examines the concept of the unforgivable sin, and evaluates the notion of the “carnal Christian.” He considers how figures such as King David, the Apostle Peter, and Judas Iscariot illustrate different aspects of falling and restoration. Throughout, Sproul grounds the believer’s confidence not in human effort alone but in the intercessory work of Christ as Great High Priest, who preserves those the Father has given Him.

Key Themes

• The distinction between assurance of salvation and the perseverance of the saints
• Biblical warning passages and their interpretation within a Reformed framework
• The unforgivable sin and its scope
• The role of obedience and sanctification in the believer’s perseverance
• Christ’s high priestly intercession as the ground of the believer’s security

Featured Quotes

“Our obedience plays a role in our sanctification. In turn, our sanctification plays a role in our persevering.”

“There is a sin that will in fact not be forgiven by God, not because God can’t do it but God won’t do it.”