by Ds. Baltazar A. Niangar, Pastor Emeritus, Th.B., A.B., D.D.
“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” — Romans 11:36
Salvation is the greatest subject the human mind can ever consider. But many of us only ever think of it as one thing — a moment, a decision, a single transaction. In my new study, I want to show you that salvation is bigger than that. It has three dimensions, and you need all three to see it whole.
1. The Theonoumenon — Salvation in the Mind of God
Before the world existed, before a single day of history had unfolded, salvation was already real — in the mind and eternal purpose of God. I call this dimension the Theonoumenon: God’s saving plan, decided before time began (2 Tim. 1:9).
This truth is meant to settle your heart. If your salvation began in the unchanging purpose of God rather than in your own performance, then it cannot be shaken by your worst day or your weakest moment.
2. The Messianic Phenomena — Salvation through the Messiah
What God purposed in eternity, He accomplished in history through Jesus Christ — His incarnation, His life of perfect obedience, His death, His resurrection, and His ongoing reign at the Father’s right hand (Rom. 4:25; Heb. 7:25). I call this the Messianic Phenomena: the eternal plan made flesh and blood.
Christ is not only the one who died for you. He is, right now, interceding for you as your great High Priest.
Show Image Photo via Unsplash
3. The Personal Experience — Salvation in Your Life
The third dimension is where it all becomes real for you personally — the new birth, the daily walk in the Spirit, the slow, sure transformation into the likeness of Christ (Gal. 2:20; Rom. 8:14). I call this the Personal Experience: salvation lived out, one day at a time, until we are fully conformed to Christ.
Why All Three Matter
Leave out any one of these dimensions and your understanding of salvation goes lopsided. God’s purpose without Christ’s work is intention without accomplishment. Christ’s work without God’s purpose is a Savior without a plan. And either one without your own personal experience is theology without life. Held together, they show salvation as Scripture actually presents it — the most magnificent act of the Triune God, and also the most personal.
You were purposed before time began. You were redeemed at the cross. You are being made new every day by the Spirit. Rest in that. Rejoice in that. Live from that.
Soli Deo gloria.
READ THE FULL STUDY
The Threefold Understanding of Salvation
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