The following is a guest post from Shawn Pander addressing Charles Stanley’s unbiblical view of sanctification and assurance of salvation.
Brethren, as a born again follower of Jesus Christ I have realized it is usually acceptable with many believers to expose the teachings of Joel Osteen, Rick Warren, or Rob Bell. However, there are many believers who feel it is taboo to expose the teachings of Charles Stanley, who is very well-known in the Southern Baptist arena. This article is intended to compare his teachings with the Word of God.
When the Lord saved me, I was immediately given and encouraged from a family member to read a book by Charles Stanley called Eternal Security. Of course, since I was a new believer in Christ, I didn’t want any outside books filling my mind. I just wanted the Word of God. After reading my Bible daily for several months, I decided to see what this book had to say. Sadly, I was very shocked and disgusted by the teachings of this book.
This is not an easy article to write as Dr. Stanley has been a pastor for 40+ years, and is well-respected in the Southern Baptist church. However, when we die and stand before the Lord, the writings of Dr. Stanley or any other well known evangelical leader is not going to matter. The only thing that is going to stand is the Word of God, and what the Lord taught us in His Word.
Below is a list of quotes from Dr. Stanley’s book Eternal Security, each followed by a rebuttal from Scripture:
1. “Even if a believer for all practical purposes becomes an unbeliever, his salvation is not in jeopardy” (Chapter 10, p. 93).
Here is what God says in His Scripture:
Matthew 10:22 – And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.
Revelation 21:8 – But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death”
2. “And last, believers who lose or abandon their faith will retain their salvation, for God remains faithful” (p. 94).
Here is what God says in His Scripture:
1 John 2:19 – They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us.
3. “Christ will not deny an unbelieving Christian his or her salvation because to do so would be to deny Himself” (p. 94).
Here is what God says in His Scripture:
Matthew 7:21-23 – “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
4. In regards to the parable Jesus taught in Matthew 25:14-30, Stanley writes:
The final verse of this parable is so severe that many commentators assume it is a description of hell. It is not. (p. 124) Where is this place represented by the “outer darkness” in Jesus’ parable? To be in the “outer darkness” is to be in the kingdom of God but outside the circle of men and women whose faithfulness on this earth earned them a special rank or position of authority. (p. 126)
Here is what God says in Scripture:
Matthew 25:30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Matthew 13:41-42 The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, 42and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Matthew 25:46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.
Revelation 22:14-15 Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. 15Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.
5. Additionally, below is a list of quotes from Dr. Stanley’s book Handbook for Christian Living:
You and I are not saved because we have enduring faith. We are saved because at a moment in time we expressed faith in our Lord (p. 190).
Discipleship has nothing to do with whether you will go to heaven or not (p. 505).
It is possible to be a child of God and never a disciple of Christ. We can live the Christian life with the assurance of heaven as our ultimate destiny but miss the process of maturing as a disciple (p. 505).
Contrary to Dr. Stanley’s teachings, a Christian is a disciple as we see in Acts 11:26:
…And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
Moreover, we see the demands and admonitions of Christ concerning true and false disciples in the following verses:
Luke 14:25-33 – Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple…So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.”
Luke 6:46-49 – “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? 47Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.c 49But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”
Brethren, we may disagree on secondary issues such as end-times prophecy, but we must not be wrong with the Gospel. Dr. Stanley’s teachings do not match up when compared to the Word of God. Dr. Stanley’s teachings are deceptive and can give an assurance of salvation to those who should not have it. Sadly, this type of teaching is very popular and typical in most evangelical churches today. However, this teaching is bad theology and denies the Lordship of Jesus Christ, it perverts the Gospel, and I believe is one of the many broad roads leading to destruction that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 7:13-14. Anyone teaching such heresy should tremble at Galatians 1:8-9.
Please note, I have emailed Dr. Stanley at In Touch Ministries in regards to this matter about a year ago, and I have still have not received a response.
I pray you grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ
In Him, Shawn
Shawn Pander lives in Mount Holly, North Carolina with his wife Lisa and attends Lincoln Community Bible Church. He is a member of The Speak:Truth Project where he proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the streets in the Charlotte area.
Recommended Reading
What Is Wrong with NON-Lordship Salvation?
airō 
The Seeking Disciple
May 8, 2012
Great post. Stanley’s false views are not only unbiblical but dangerous as his message is accepted by thousands of people who now claim to be a disciple of Jesus despite no evidence of their discipleship whatsoever (John 15:1-9). This leads to their false assurance that they are heaven bound when in fact they are not (Revelation 21:7-8).
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Amen, TSD. It is sad indeed and this American “Christianity” will be the death of so many false converts. Jesus said “many” on that day will be told to depart from Christ as He never knew them.
Jackie Sliter
May 8, 2012
I love Pastor Stanley but If indeed these are quotes from his writing then I must as they are not biblical… We must abide in Christ…..I think of Col.1:21-23: there is a little word that made me sit up and take notice, ” If”. There is a conditoin here, for entering the Kingdom of God…..
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Amen, Jackie. I think of Colossians 3:1-7 as well, where Paul writes:
“IF then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4When Christ **who is your life** appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
5Put to death therefore what is earthly in you:b sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 6On account of these the wrath of God is coming. 7In these you too ONCE walked, when you WERE living in them.”
Deb Pankey
May 8, 2012
I’m wondering how old the are the quotes you have sited. Charles Stanley has written many books and articles. We are all “in process” concerning our spiritual growth and understanding of the word. As you point out he has been in ministry for many years. I’m sure he has grown spiritually in those years.
I frequently listen to him and I have not heard these kinds of statements from him in the last seven or eight years I have been listening to him. He does speak of eternal security but not in this way. In a nut shell what I take from his current teaching on this issue is this. No one can take our salvation from us……no person, circumstance, demonic power, etc.for God holds us safely in His hand. But we still have a choice and we can decide to walk away from God for good. He will contnue to persue us but will not force His will on us and if we continue in sin we will be lost. He is very clear that this means a lifestyle and total change of heart toward God.
He goes on to explain that some will be saved and get into heaven but will receive no rewards due to their lazy spiritual life on earth.
I find this interpretation of the scripture reasonable tho I see grounds for a more conservative interpretation. I don’t dwell on it much because I believe that our hearts tell us if we are in right relationship with God despite what any man says.
I have found all of Stanley’s other teaching to be spot on and his teaching style very humble, simple and down to earth.
Please don’t attack this man publicly without first speaking with him one on one. I’m sure he gets plenty of emails sent to his ministry. Why not try a phone call explaining your questions and requesting a meeting with him.
Non-believers and the enemy love this kind of tearing apart of one Christian by another. I believe in exposing false teachers but look again at the biblical definition of a false teacher…..one who doesn’t confess the Name of Jesus Christ. Dr. Stanley does not fall into this definition.
The Seeking Disciple
May 8, 2012
I would hope that if Stanley has changed his views regarding “once saved, always saved” then he would pull his book off the market. His book clearly teaches a radical, non-Lordship view of eternal security that denies that holiness is necessary for heaven despite biblical warnings (Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Revelation 21:7-8).
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Indeed, TSD. Stanley would repent and make every effort to correct this false teaching.
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Deb, this is what God says of our hearts before He gives us a new one:
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? – Jeremiah 17:9
So it is dangerous to believe our hearts tell us the truth if they are unregenerate. The only way to test our faith is with the objective Word of God, not subjective feelings.
Secondly, no one has attacked Stanley. He has put out a public work that, after being held against God’s Word, utterly fails in teaching biblical assurance of salvation.
pam
May 12, 2012
Hey Deb, God is sovreign and saves who He wants to. It is called Grace and it is because of His great love and mercy for some. He wrote their names in the Lamb’s Book of Life before the foundation of the world. They will never be lost because it is God who does it. Some get mercy and the rest of mankind get justice. Faith is a gift from God and we persevere in it because He perseveres us. This is our eternal security. It is not based on what we decide but what God decided. We choose Him because He first chose us. We are secure because He has done it. Free will is not in the Bible.
That way God gets all the glory.
Hope this helps.
pam
Brian
September 29, 2012
I think these quotes from Stanley were mainly from his Eternal Security book which I believe was primarily written by Andy Stanley not Charles Stanley. This was basically refactoring of Zane Hodges antinomian teaching.
Shawn Pander
October 1, 2012
Here is Stanley telling people if they go back to there old life they are still saved. This is what the book is all about. It is unBiblical teaching, and he never gives a warning to those who don’t repent. But he gives them assurance
issachar5
May 8, 2012
The teaching that all you need to do is pray the magic words, “come into my heart Lord Jesus,” and you will be saved, is witchcraft.
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Yep, superstition indeed, issachar5.
julie
May 8, 2012
How those of us who are true Christians must weep- not only are current church goers being lulled to sleep in their sins, but many thousands are also being brought in as unbelievers and baptized and accepted as Christians because of a few words they said or an experience they had. Or even because they “wanted” to come to church or take communion, somehow this means they are Christians. When we take into account the many thousands upon thousands who never even attend church but think they are Christians because they prayed a prayer or walked an aisle years ago, it is staggering to ponder. No wonder Jesus Christ said that the way that led to destruction was broad, that there were many on it. No wonder He asked when the Son of Man returns will He find faith on the earth?
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Amen, Julie. The American church landscape is in such poor shape. Liberalism, Arminianism, and Finneyism has been very successful in deceiving the masses and giving them false hope with a false gospel.
julie
May 8, 2012
Deb, so many answer as you do….it is alarming. Why elevate a mere man above the Lord Jesus Christ and His word? Why elevate him above the spiritual health and well-being of the people he teaches? Stanley is a public figure. He is a teacher to the public. What he writes is available publically. What is done publically opens itself up to free scrutiny and public discussion and disagreement. This is actually what the scriptures call us to do as Christians. This is not about a personal offense between Stanley and another. This is public record. Oh Christians, beware of elevating a man above Christ!
Deb Pankey
May 8, 2012
The Bible teaches that if we see another believer going astray we should attempt to bring him back by pointing out the error of his ways. IMO one email sent to the ministry is not sufficient in an attempt to contact Dr. Stanley about his writings IF Shawn’s objective is to lovingly address an issue with a Christian brother. However, if the objective is to lure readers to his blog by publicly calling him out then, I guess an email floated to his ministry among all the other emails received daily fills the bill.
I’m not lifting Charles Stanley above Christ or anyone else for that matter. He’s a man, a human being just like the rest of us. He is as capable of error as any mortal man would be. The only point I was making is that the statements printed here attributed to Stanley do not reflect the things I hear coming from him currently…….not even close. There seems to be a disconnect, a problem and before Shawn goes any further soiling Stanley’s reputation as a solid Bible teacher I think it only fair and prudent to make some attempts to speak with him personally or at the very least get a statement from the ministry on this issue.
The Bible says “touch not my anointed”. I think we would all be wise to be very careful and very sure of where we stand before we speak out against a Christian brother who has obviously been anointed by the Lord and has led many to Christ. Shawn is in murky water at best, IMO.
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
Deb, why are you judging your brother who has merely brought up his concerns on a public blog about a public book written by a public figure in public ministry. Shawn did make an attempt to reach Stanley with his concerns to no avail. It is not his responsibility to chase Charles Stanley down. That is more an issue with their public relations. How do you know they did not see Shawn’s email and chose to neglect his concerns?
Perhaps you should get the book for yourself. You could also watch the following video posted in March 2011 that supports Stanley’s view in Eternal Security. It’s equally dangerous and sheds more light on Stanley’s incredibly false view of sanctification and assurance of salvation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrhFrQJritc&feature=youtube_gdata_player
p.s. be careful how you use catchy, albeit even biblical, phrases like “touch not my annointed.” Might I suggest you be as a Berean and test all things against the Scriptures. You might also find this article helpful: http://www.letusreason.org/Pent47.htm
julie
May 8, 2012
No I do not believe that Shawn’s objective is to lovingly address an issue with a Christian brother. On the contrary. Shawn is warning Christians of the false teaching of someone who apparently has a great following in evangelical circles. In a sense this is not about Charles Stanley, per se, but about a false teaching in the church. this false teaching is so persuasive and has so infiltrated the visible church that it threatens to destroy it altogether. Of course it cannot destroy the true church for Jesus Christ Himself upholds His church.
This is very difficult and takes alot of discernment. Just because Charles Stanley sounds o.k. to you most of the time means nothing. You have to take the whole of his teaching into consideration.
Perhaps you have seen the recent teaching of Stanley’s son at his mega church where he told the church that two homosexual men could not be greeters in the church. Why? because of their homosexual sin? No because one of the men was still married to his wife. Just to make it clear what he is: he is married but is carrying on an adulterous homosexual relationship with another man in the church. Andy Stanley doesn’t apparently have a problem with the homosexual sin, but with adultery. it sounds like he has bought into his father’s teachings, hook line and sinker. The idea that a believer can basically live any way that he or she likes, regardless, as long as once upon a time they “prayed” or walked the aisle. here we see very blatently the outcome of this type of false teaching. The bitter fruit of it.
Justin Edwards
May 8, 2012
You bring up a great point, Julie. According to Andy Stanley, the homosexuals’ sin is not homosexuality, but their adulterous affairs alone. And according to Charles Stanley, one can say the “sinners prayer” “sincerely” and then become a homosexual for the rest of their life. No doubt Charles Stanley would assure them of their salvation. I recommend Julie reading my series on Lordship Salvation, perhaps starting with Part 6 on Biblical Assurance of Salvation: https://airocross.com/2011/04/05/what-is-wrong-with-non-lordship-salvation-part-6/
Shawn Pander
May 8, 2012
All, this is not a personal vendetta against Charles Stanley, it is just simply an article to expose this teaching in the American church today. This teaching has many errors and is common in most evangelical churches today.
Even though the Church of Christ (True Believers) is pure, true, and Biblical; the local church(es) are in much error, and as a born again disciple of Jesus Christ, I cannot sit back and let the Word of God be prostituted like this anymore.
This teaching is not ONLY embraced and taught by Charles Stanley, but is also taught by well known evangelical leaders ie. Greg Laurie, Chip Ingram, David Jeremiah and others.
It is highly possible when Jesus spoke about false teachers in Matthew 7, this is the very thing he had in mind. These teachings are NOT secondary issues such as end times, but are core Gospel issues. Galatians 1 makes it VERY clear that if anyone preaches another Gospel they are to be accursed. Even while we are street evangelizing, and open air preaching, we are going to be held under a higher accountability because the message we preach, and it better be Biblical.
This teaching has personally hurt me, and I know it is going to hurt many others in the end. My dad 20+ years ago started going to church, and reading his bible. I remember as a kid my dad would make us sit down and watch Mr. Stanley on TV. This lasted a few years; However he got caught back up in the world, and his life and hasn’t faithfully read his Bible or been to church in at least 13-15 years. He has no desire to read his Bible, go to church, or fellowship with believers, and he loves worldly things.
When the Lord saved me 2-1/2+ years ago, the Lord put it on my heart to speak to my father about the Gospel. Knowing my dad has watched Charles Stanley for years, I asked him about his eternity. He quickly replied “I am saved, because I believe, and Charles Stanley says although a person may lose rewards, they will still go to heaven.” Knowing the new heart I was just given by Gods grace, I knew my father really had NO clue what grace and born again really meant. After that conversation, and days following I spent 6+ hours with him going through the Word of God, and he realized that he is not going to heaven if he dies in his current state. He was very distraught, and seemed irritated because this whole time he was assured of his salvation, but I explained to him that if I did not tell him the Truth that would be the most unloving thing I could do.
Through scripture I took him to passages that explained to him the new birth, and the new life in Jesus Christ. I shown him scripture that explains “once saved always saved” ONLY means if you are born again, and that if you are born again you will be a new creation and you will turn from your sin, and embrace the things of God, you will die to self, and die to the world, and your faith will persevere to the end, if you are truly saved. After reading the Scripture for himself, he realized that he has believed a lie this whole time, and he was deceived.
I urge you to pray for his salvation, he is still lost, and under the wrath of God. Please pray that God grants him repentance.
This is why I want to expose this teaching if my father was deceived, I know there are many more out there who have been believing this lie. Christians let us take a stand for the Truth, by the grace and mercy of God expose this false teaching, yes, religious evangelical church attendees may hate you for exposing it, but Jesus said “count the cost” let us die for Christ.
Blessings in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Jim Schablitsky
May 9, 2012
The In Touch web site still teaches the error pointed out in the article. While at the site, I searched on “eternal security” and found the article entitled, “Those who stop believing.” The article teaches any believer who stops believing is still saved…the Bible teaches otherwise. Stanley also teaches the believer must tithe to be right with and blessed of God, and we know this is also unbiblical for the church.
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
Thanks for sharing that, Jim. I found the article and agree with you. Stanley still teaches one can stop believing and go to heaven. Scripture shows otherwise that this person would not be a sheep of the Good Shepherd, but rather one who heard and followed the voice of a stranger to destruction (John 10).
issachar5
May 9, 2012
Reblogged this on Historicist Blog and commented:
And interesting look at the “Once Saved always saved” deception.
Tola
jery mattheiss
May 9, 2012
I’m a little confused about your reasoning. notice, it’s “Your reasoning”. What are you going to do with Eph 4:30? “Sealed unto the day of redemption”? Many more security verses. BTW, salvation has nothing to do with what WE think. It’s a God thing and He’s the one that keeps us, not what we do or do not do as christians. I don’t want a god that can lose us when we trust Him.
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
Hi Jery, sorry for the confusion. Yes, the born again believer is eternally secure, but they must be born again first. Charles Stanley teaches that one must only believe at one time and then could go on to live a life of sin or completely walk away from a profession of faith and still go to heaven. The reality would be is that such a person is likely not regenerated, and rather than giving them a false assurance of salvation as Charles Stanley would, this person should be admonished to examine themselves per 2 Corinthians 13:5. That is the concern being discussed in this post and the subsequent comments. Ephesians 4:30 is a beautiful verse, and I particularly love (no pun intended) Ephesians 1:3-14, which shows salvation is for the glory of God alone, which is why the born again believer is eternally secure in Christ by the sealing of the Holy Spirit. I hope that helps.
Deb Pankey
May 9, 2012
Shawn, I’m very sorry about what happened to your dad. However, I don’t think you should be blaming Charles Stanley for your dad’s current spiritual condition. We all have freedom of choice and the Bible talks us that we have the Holy Spirit so we need no man to teach us. No doubt the Holy Spirit has been trying to speak to your father about his sin and he has chosen to ignore this. Again, I will say that the Bible teaches us that our hearts will either confirm the Word within us or condemn us. IF we are a true born again believer we have the Holy Spirit living inside of us and we KNOW whether if Jesus were to come today or we were to die today whether we would spend eternity in heaven or he’ll. Trust me, I’ve been on both sides of the fence. I was saved (for real, not just a walk down the isle) at age eight and in my college years backslid. I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt I was lost at that point. I didn’t need anyone to tell me. After about ten years I re-committed my life to Christ and had the full assurance of my salvation and again I didn’t need anyone to tell me – the Holy Spirit bears witness. I’m nearly 60 years old now and have walked with the Lord thru many situations and He WILL keep us on the right track IF we let him.
Concerning Dr. Stanley, I’m asking you again to try to contact him via phone with your concerns. This is only right and fair. Explain to him your concerns, tell him about your father.
Folks I’m just grieved as anyone else about the false teachings in the churches today and especially on TV. But I’m equally grieved by the biting and devouring of believers by other believers in the local churches and in the area of “Christiandom” in the US. This “gotcha” attitude that is pervasive is just as harmful as any false teaching out there. I have no problem with anyone wanting to expose false teachers. In fact there are a couple that are so flagrant I would cheer if they were no longer on TV. But I have recently seen where OUR LORD is taking care of exposing them!! God isn’t unaware of what’s going on and I think we will see more of this in the very near future as judgement begins first with the church.
So my suggestion is we all begin with cleaning our own houses and spending time at Jesus’ feet instead of putting stuff on the Internet to “expose” someone. I don’t think God needs our help……in His time all things will be set right.
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
Deb,
Do you agree or disagree with Charles Stanley’s view of sanctification and assurance of salvation as he explains in the quotes in the article and subsequent video in the comments?
http://airocross.com http://thespeaktruthproject.com
Deb Pankey
May 9, 2012
Justin, no I don’t agree with the interpretation of the scriptures (attributed to Stanley) in Shawn’s article. I believe that anyone who has truly been saved will know thru the power of the Holy Spirit his/her spiritual standing. I think those who take a walk down the isle and go thru the motions of church attendance and all the other trappings to obtain “fire insurance” know the truth. They are just making a choice to ignore what the Holy Spirit is saying to them. They may come to the point where the Holy Spirit ceases striving with them and gives them over to their own lusts.
My point is that I listen to C S several times a week and that IS NOT what I hear coming from him. That is why I am saying Shawn should contact him.
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
But Deb, we have provided links to his website and a video only a year old supporting his same views from the book. Charles Stanley teaches one can stop following Christ, one might never bear fruit, one can live in a lifestyle of sin, or stop believing altogether and still be a Christian on their way to heaven. This is a damning heresy. Perhaps you should contact Dr. Stanley yourself to see if he as of May 9, 2012 still believes and teaches these things. I’m confident he does since the information is readily available on his website and his youtube channel. This is a false teaching, Deb, and I’m afraid you are putting your head in the sand.
p.s. so to be clear, are the people you mentioned born again? Are they saved after the Lord has given them over to their own lusts?
Deb Pankey
May 9, 2012
p.s. so to be clear, are the people you mentioned born again? Are they saved after the Lord has given them over to their own lusts?
The way I understand the scripture, no they are not.
All I can tell you is I have heard him speak on this subject several times, both on radio and TV and that is not what he has been saying. I explained in a previous post what I heard him say.
I don’t have my head in the sand on this issue because I’m not a Stanley “worshiper” nor am I placing him above Jesus Christ as a previous poster so piously proposed. There is no reason for me to contact him about this since I am not the one with the blog challenging him.
I’m a firm believer of freedom of speech, but with that freedom comes responsibility. The Internet is full of bloggers conducting these “watch groups” and I’ve seen nearly every well known preacher or Bible teacher attacked and picked apart by one group or another. I guess it’s just Stanley’s turn in the bucket. I read an article this morning attacking him for teaching on tithing. He isn’t a prosperity teacher, never has been. They were siting his answer to an email question from a viewer. Really???
Seems to me these “Christian watch dogs” would be better served allowing God to deal with the false teachers…….and I’m not disputing there are plenty of them. I would suggest they use their blogs to lift up and encourage the Body of Christ instead of trying to do the job of the Holy Spirit. Don’t forget, we are accountable for all our words…..including the typed ones!
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
So Deb, you are ok with Charles Stanley give false assurances to potential false converts? That is what it sounds like to me. As to defending sound doctrine, this is what God’s Word says:
So God has commissioned His Church to defend the faith, Deb. I encourage you to put your feelings aside for Dr. Stanley and consider his teaching. If it doesn’t line up with Scripture (and it doesn’t), are you going to continue to give him a pass or research it further?
Deb Pankey
May 9, 2012
Justin, I don’t have any ” feelings” for Dr. Stanley. I’ve stated my issue several times and you keep trying to make it all about C S.
Many of the scriptures you have sited refer to an individual’s own personal adherence to the faith. I don’t see where it says it’s your job to police someone else’s walk with God…….disciple, yes but publicly police, no.
It’s about putting things on the Internet about someone without having first discussed it with that person. Unbelievers and the media do this type of thing all the time. You can say anything about anyone on the Internet and get away with it. Then it gets posted and re-posted over and over in multiple places and the person involved has no defense against it whatsoever. This isnt even honest or fair, let alone Christ-like! The self appointed “watchdogs over the flock”, which I guess you would consider yourself to be one of them are doing the job for the unbelievers in tearing apart other believers.
I’ve read some of the stuff that has been said on the net about the various preachers and teachers and some of it is obviously very true. I’m not going to mention names but there is one couple who is right now in the spotlight that are a perfect example of the obvious. But other Christian men and women have had stuff spread around about their teachings and ministries that was only partially true and in some cases totally false. Of course it’s out there all over the net for the scoffers to point and laugh.
I’m saying “watchdogs” need to let God be God and decide who and how to expose the false teachers and use their time and talents to uplift and encourage.
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
Actually, Deb, I am more concerned with the false teaching that Charles Stanley happens to teach (though he is not alone). If you love God’s Word, and I presume you do, I encourage you to pray and seek the Lord to show why this teaching is so dangerous to so many people. Your love for the lost should also compel you to hate this false teaching and warn others about it, regardless of who is teaching it.
http://airocross.com http://thespeaktruthproject.com
Deb Pankey
May 9, 2012
Again, you have missed my point. Actually I think you get it and you are just choosing to ignore it because it doesn’t suit your agenda.
Like I said before, we are all accountable for ALL of our words and I think you and the other “watchdogs” are on dangerous ground.
I’ve made my point. You’ve ignored it. I’m done.
Justin Edwards
May 9, 2012
I’m not ignoring it all, Deb. As a false convert for 22 years I personally know the damage of the distorted view of assurance that Stanley teaches. Posting these concerns is no different than speaking of them anywhere else. A book has been written, a video has been posted, and Stanley’s website show he has this view and is leading who knows how many astray. Like any false teaching, such as a false view of repentance, saving faith, regeneration, the atonement, justification, or the resurrection, a false teaching concerning regarding assurance and sanctification should be discussed for the edification of the saints. When people teach something that is opposed to Scripture, especially when it impacts so many people, it can and must be pointed out. This goes for anyone, including myself if I am in error for anything I teach or communicate. I love the truth and hate every false way, and I love the sheep enough to warn them to flee from such teaching. I’m saddened to see you don’t believe the same. A false teaching is a false teaching no matter who it comes from, whether it’s me, Stanley, John MacArthur, Rob Bell, Rick Warren, Joel Osteen, Paul Washer, Steven Lawson, or Billy Graham.
http://airocross.com http://thespeaktruthproject.com
gracealone1
May 10, 2012
The importance of the issue at hand far outweighs anyone’s personal affinity and defense of an undefensible position. What is a stack here is not so much the eternal security of true believers (though that is the major point of the post), rather it is the way unbelievers are lulled into believing that all is well no matter their actions, words or thoughts while on this earth. It is a stealthy, deceitful, and underhanded way of giving “assurance” to church goers that their eternal destiny is heaven inspite of their continued sins. Like you, Justin, I was saved after nearly 35 years of telling God that He had to take me to heaven when I died because I prayed a prayer as a teenager no matter how much I sinned against Him.
There are not two classes of redeemed people. The first being those who believe themselves to be saved and yet continue in their life-long sin of choice without fear of God because some false prophet told them that if they were sincere in their prayer then all is well with God no matter what they do. The second is those who have seen their sins as God sees them, with the only response being “Lord, have mercy on me a sinner”. All sin becomes repugnant to them, a new love for the Lord Jesus and His word floods their heart and the thought of returning to their old sins is not even entertained. Yet this is what CS and others like him would have us believe. It is not to be found in Scripture. His book was published in 1990. He has had 22 years to recant, retract, and repentent and yet he has not. With this issue being so critical in the presentation of the Gospel and the discipling of believers why has he not publically said so? Could it be that he still believes the same?
It scares me to hear people tell of how they were saved at such and such an age and continued in their sins until they “rededicated their lives to Jesus”. Someone please show me where this is found in Scripture. I’ll save you the trouble, it is not to be found. Jesus Christ does not issue “get out of hell free cards” and only save a portion of a person all the while waiting and wringing His hands waiting for this new convert to “make Jesus my Lord, too”. DO NOT INSULT MY LORD. He saves to the utter most. One cannot drink of the Water of Life and remain in his old sins Romans 6:14 and others. If one is still a slave to his old sins HE IS LOST. No, I am not preaching sinless perfection. A true believer will find repentance to be a close friend as the sorrow of new sin tugs at their heart. What I am saying is that we are no longer a slave to sin. There are so many references for this that space fails me, but this can be found throughout the entire Bible.
There are those who read here that need to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith. This is not meant in a judgmental, demeaning way. It is my prayer that God will expose the evil and glorify His Name.
julie
May 10, 2012
Shawn and the others here who have understood what you are trying to show us: this comment thread has shown us so clearly what we are dealing with in the church today. There is a small remnant of true Christians. They know the voice of the Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ. When they hear His voice they follow and will not follow the voice of the stranger. When one of them tries to warn the other sheep of a false voice or a false teacher, there are some in the flock who agree because they have settled in their minds through Christ and the Holy Spirit that scripture is the final authority. They are thankful that the Lord has gifted some in the body of Christ with discernment and biblical maturity. They have also understood and accepted according to Jesus Christ Himself, that there will be false teachers in the church. There will even be some teachers who seemed to be true teachers and then either showed their true hand at some point or turned aside to follow what is false and began to teach it instead of the truth. So they are on the lookout. All of this takes a great deal of discernment to judge between right and almost right. If you are a new babe in Christ, listen to the warnings!
But others in the flock, rather than heed the warning, will turn on the sheep who issued the warning. They cannot or will not use scripture for their final authority but their own reasonings. They can’t understand that there will be false teachers. They imagine themselves kinder than Jesus Himself who at certain times called people dogs, foxes, satan and whitened sepulchers.
Look, no true Christian is happy about these false teachers, but grieved. We don’t want to talk about this stuff but souls are at stake. Yes souls, eternal souls are at stake. also the glory of Christ and His name. Some are just grieved that “we can’t all get along” and concerned that somebody’s feelings might be hurt. Folks this isn’t kindergarten class! Wake up church!
John
May 17, 2012
I was raised in a southern baptist church and they do teach this and there is no denying it but it is just not charles stanely but the whole southern baptist converntion. I am currently struggling with once saved always saved and go back and forth on it.
Revelations 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
seems to say your name can be blotted out
lets put all this once saved stuff behind us for a minute and see what charles is doing. go look up the teaching of his son andy stanely who he has allowed to preach at his church. Charles has also not stood up to the president of the south baptist who is having meetings with new agers
Justin Edwards
May 17, 2012
Hi John, the perseverance of the saints is a biblical doctrine and teaches that God preserves all He saves. The OSAS doctrine as taught by Stanley and many like him, however, teaches a one-time profession of faith saves you and teaches the possibility for one to go on to live a fruitless, completely carnal, even faith-abandoning life and still go to heaven. The result is an unbiblical and fictional category of “carnal Christianity” and is plaguing many a person to hell.
I would tend to agree with your assertion of Andy Stanley. Perhaps the apple does not indeed fall too far from the tree.
John
May 17, 2012
I have read most posts here and one person here seems to think all it takes to be bible based is to claim the name of Jesus. That is not true and you would know it is not true if you would just stop and think for a second. Mitt Romney and Glenn Beck will tell you they believe in Jesus but niether of them are even remotely bible based and should not be listened to
harold hutchison
May 17, 2012
theres a lot of difference between law and grace, most of the scripture that was used to condeem stanley were taken from the 4 gospels, christ came to the jew only under the law with a couple of exception see matt 10-5-7 when he told them to not go to the gentiles but jew only to fullfill the covenant god made to abraham. the great apostle paul has the message of grace for us today in 2 cor 5-16 paul says we dont follow anyone after the flesh anymore reffering to christ because this was all before the cross, would someone please tell me how when a person is truly saved by that presious holy blood that was shed on the cross and god inputes his rightenous to us how in gods name can a person loose the salvation that god gave to you, the bible tells us salvation is of the lord the only thing god wants us to do is to believe with all our heart the gospel and he does the rest, a person that is truly saved will want to do the right thing but we all fail. just remember the creator of all things is the one that came to this world and paid the sin debt for all people and if thats not suffecient then we are all in trouble paul said to study to show thyself approved unto god RIGHTLY DEVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH, and a lot of people ars hung up on tradition or something someone has told them, folks study pauls letters especially romans and im sure you will see what im talking about.
Justin Edwards
May 17, 2012
Hi Harold, your hyperdispensationalism aside, no one here is claiming one can lose their salvation. Blood bought, born again children of God have eternal life the moment they are regenerated and justified through repentant faith. Stanley is teaching one can make a one-time profession of faith and go on to live like a hellion or completely deny Christ and still go to heaven. That is completely antithetical to what God’s Word teaches on the new creation in Christ. I encourage you to read Romans 6-8, Ephesians 4, Colossians 3, and 1 John and you’ll see what I’m talking about. 🙂
harold hutchison
May 18, 2012
justin i completly agree with you if a man be in christ he is a new creature, in cor paul confronts a man who had a affair with his fathers wife and paul told the church to turn him over to satan for the distruction of the flesh that the spirit may be saved in the day of the lord jesus so they are those in a time of weakness gives in to our old sin nature, but i guess my point is people not seing all the mysteries that was kept secret in the mind of god before the foundation of the world romans 16-25, it seems people avoid pauls letters which is for us today it seems everone wants to go to the 4 gospels instead, im certainly not taking anything away from them they are inspired just as much as pauls is. it realy scares me for people who dont rightly devide the word of truth, there are no salvation for us in the gospels the foundation of our salvation is by christ being the son of god but this was before the cross the 12 did not even know about his death in luke 18- 31-34 christ plainly tells them about all the things he must suffer and die in verse 34 it says that they understand none of these things because it was hid from them. i guess im just chasing rabbits but it realy bothers me that so many are decieved but i agree that if you are born again you dont want to live like hell and the devil.
Justin Edwards
May 18, 2012
Harold, with all due respect, you are treading in the waters of heresy spouting that Jesus and Paul preached different Gospels. I will point you to the following resources that you might study and repent from this unbiblical doctrine:
Hyperdispensationalism and the Authority of Christ: http://cicministry.org/commentary/issue108.htm
Lordship Salvation and Dispensationalism: http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1190393939
harold hutchison
May 18, 2012
justin how can you say that christ preached the same gospel as paul, what was peters responce when christ asked who do men say i the son of man am peter said you are the christ the son of the living god did christ condem him no he said blessed are you for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you but my father in heaven did. not one word about his death burial and reserrection, in john 20-9-10 it plainly tells us for as yet they knew not the scripture that he must rise again. are we saved by believing that christ was the son of god and ignore his death burial and reserrection, romans 15-8 states that christ was the minister of the circumcision for the truth of god to confirm the promises made unto the fathers, and paul also says to be followers of him as he follows christ, i know this is hard to understand it took me a long time to see it
Justin Edwards
May 18, 2012
Harold, I can say they preached the same Gospel because Jesus said this to the Father before His death, “And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (John 17:3). Who will know Jesus? His sheep, those for whom the promise was given (Jews), as well as those who are grafted in (Gentiles):
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.” (John 10:11-16).
These same sheep, both Jew and Gentile, know the voice of the Good Shepherd:
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me,[a] is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.” (John 10:27-30)
Further, the same Gospel for the Jew is the same Gospel for the Gentile:
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16).
I will not allow you to proselytize this false doctrine, Harold.
Miles
May 17, 2012
AMEN……..
Psalm 7:11
God is a righteous judge, a God who expresses his wrath every day
Psalm 50:6
And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for God himself is judge. Selah
Psalm 58:11
Then men will say, “Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth.
Psalm 75:7
But it is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.
Acts 10:42
42He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.
HEBREWS 10:26-31
26If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, 27but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. 28Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God under foot, who has treated as an unholy thing the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace? 30For we know him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[d] and again, “The Lord will judge his people.”[e] 31It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God
Hebrews 13:4
Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.
James 3:1
Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
diapersandlaundry
May 18, 2012
It is so sad to see others place a man over Christ.
They will say that is not what they are doing; yet it is precisely what they are doing.
I have been in a church where the pastor made known that he listens to Stanley and he also shares the “make a confession, live in sin, you are still saved”theory.
He only preaches on “some” sin, not what the Bible tells us is sin.
He has even went so far as to “copy” Stanley’s sermons during church, and act as if they are is own, I know this, because I myself would watch Stanley on Saturday night on TV and on Sunday, would hear my pastor repeat the same sermon!
Once the Lord opened my eyes and ears to His TRUTH, I was in shock!
The last sermon I watched of Stanley’s was ALL about our “feelings”, I truly felt nauseous and my husband and I had to turn it off!
As for my pastor, he began going away from the Scriptures and taking them out of context completely.
He would never preach on fornication or adultery, or many other sins, other than smoking. At the time I left, there were 6 couples “living in sin” and feeling that it was ok, because they confessed they were saved.
My pastor, this was a Baptist church, went as far to start preaching on “Rapheal the Medicine Angel” which you will hear about in the Catholic church, and wanting to know how much money people were giving, so he could praise them in church, to make others want to give even more!
He humilated one of our members in front of the entire congregation over her husband comitting adultery with another member of our church, after this woman pursued him heavily.
The pastor told everyone in the church about it, without getting consent from the member it happened too, with her sitting right there in the pew!
She had to leave during it, because she was so hurt and humilated, as he stated to the entire church, it was just as much her fault, as the ones who comitted adultery!!
I exposed his false teachings and people, just as they are here, would defend him over the Word of God.
They didn’t want to believe it, or have to leave their “comfort” zone, so they make excuses saying none of us are perfect, or …he is only human.
It saddens me tremendously.
I warned and warned and warned after I left the church.
Not slandering his name, but only using the Scriptures to open people’s eyes.
When people have “itching” ears, they will stay where the itch can be scratched.
They deny the Truth, and I know longer cast the pearls before swine there, after warning repeatedly for many months.
Once they begin to lift the pastor, higher and higher, over the TRUTH OF GOD, you begin to see that there is NO Truth in them.
Outing “false” teachers is a difficult thing to do….but it has to be done to warn others, and you will be persecuted for it.
It is not “un-christian” like to tell of their heresy’s…even Paul mentions them by name, and he also “scolded” Peter.
Gal 2:11 But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
Gal 2:12 For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.
Gal 2:13 And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.
Gal 2:14 But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
Gal 2:15 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,
Gal 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
Gal 2:17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.
Gal 2:18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.
Gal 2:19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.
Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Gal 2:21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
1Ti 1:18 This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;
1Ti 1:19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
1Ti 1:20 Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
Rom_16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
2Pe 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
2Pe 2:2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.
2Pe 2:3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.
diapersandlaundry
May 18, 2012
I do not understand WHY persons will defend a “man” OVER God’s Truth??!
Everything we are taught by “man” can be tested by the Word of God.
If it does NOT match up…one of them are wrong! That would be MAN.
When a pastor/teacher goes directly against what the Word of God teaches us, and blatantly leads others away from the TRUTH, there remains no more excuse for him.
When warning others of the heresy being taught, be ready for persecution.
They so look up to man, that they will refuse the Truths of God.
They will rely on their feelings and reason, to defend the man, and to tear those of us down that warn the teaching is false.
GOD help us.
JJ
May 18, 2012
Hmm, so we can be more powerful than Jesus Christ and remove ourselves from His salvation and if we decide to stay saved then by our own sweat and steam to keep it. Well I sure didn’t realize that ! I am overwhelmed!
JJ
May 18, 2012
Can we say lordship salvation ?
Justin Edwards
May 19, 2012
JJ, I’m not exactly clear on what you mean with your posts, but yes, God’s grace saves us, changes us, and conforms us to the image of Christ without fail. In other words, justification necessarily yields sanctification without exception, which “lordship salvation” biblically teaches. Please see my series for further explanation: https://airocross.com/lordship-salvation/
Michele
July 19, 2012
I don’t know who you are, Justin Edwards, but you are an excellent apologist! I don’t even want in on this conversation, but to say that such a clear cut, orthodox understanding of the Doctrines of Grace in salvation is to me, so refreshing and exactly what is needed in pulpits today. Justin, where do you preach? I’ll be praying for you.
Justin Edwards
August 23, 2012
Hi MIchele, I see I did not respond to your question here. (Thanks, by the way, for your kind words). If by preaching in the pulpit, I do not. But I do open-air preach in the Charlotte, NC area. Thank you so much for your prayer, to God be the glory alone.
P Martin
August 6, 2012
I went to YouTube and heard Stanleys actual words on the subject and it left me somewhat confused. First Im glad this article was written. We need to expose things like this but…I wonder if Stanley means you cant lose your Salvation because its always available for you to come back to? I honestly dont understand also what he means when he says you can go to Heaven but you miss out on your rewards. I guess the question to Stanley should have been can backsliders go to Hell, not if they lose their Salvation..
Justin Edwards
August 23, 2012
Sorry for the late reply, P Martin. I believe Stanley teaches that once you “made a decision”, this “one moment in time” ensures your salvation regardless if you turn out to be a rank apostate.
BD
August 9, 2012
Eph 2:8-10 says it is by grace you are saved through faith not by works. we should, since we have come into the faith we will follow Jesus. we will sin because we still walk with an old sinful nature, which must be put to death on a daily basis. but how many of you are truely without sin, probably none, since although Christ lives within us we still have something that Christ never had and that is a sinful nature. I believe the Word of God teaches that once we are in the hand of God no one snatches us out. I cor. 3:10-15 tells us that we are going to have to go through the fiery judgment of God and He will decide.
Justin Edwards
August 23, 2012
Hi BD, thanks for commenting. I basically agree with you except I would explain our relation to the sin nature a bit differently. In any case, nothing you said disagrees with the author, so I’m not sure what your disagreement is?
mark
August 24, 2012
I believe that you are saying a person can be saved by God, but kept by works. We are saved by grace and of course good works will follow. I feel with so many true false prophets out there, you should not pick on Dr. Stanley. Why don’t you continue to directly contact him to speak about it? Love in Jesus!
Justin Edwards
August 24, 2012
Hi Mark, could you please point out where it has been said that we are kept by works?
John
September 5, 2012
I have read the Charles Stanley book several times and it’s spot on with what it says. It’s the whole “Lordship Salvation” fiasco that is the lie and puts people in bondage their whole lives.
Justin Edwards
September 5, 2012
John, when you say it is “spot on with what it says”, do you mean to say you believe that one can “ask Jesus into their heart” at one point in time, and if they go on to continue in a lifestyle of sin or outright reject God and walk away from the faith, that they are “eternally secure” because of the one-time “decision” they made?
Shawn Pander
September 5, 2012
John, how does Lordship salvation put people in bondage their whole life?
The Word of God says when a person is born again by Gods grace, God says His commands are NOT burdensome. (1 John 5:3).
A Christian obeys Gods commands not out of bondage or burden, but because they have been given a new heart by Gods grace (Ephesians 2:1-10). Obeying Gods commands is all throughout Scripture. You are either a slave to Jesus (Lordship Salvation) or you are a slave to your sin (damnation) there is no middle ground.
John, obeying Gods commands and forsaking all to follow Christ is evidence of the new birth, and Jesus said “unless a person is born again, they will not see the Kingdom of God” (John 3:3;7). The new birth is ONLY given to a person my Gods grace (Eph. 2:1-10)
This is not works to earn or keep salvation, it is simply works because you have been saved. (John 15)
If you are finding the commands in the Word of God a burden, I would ask you to examine yourself, just like Gods Word says (1 Corinthians 13:5). Read 1 John and examine yourself to Gods Truth.