Salvation Provided for All
By H. E. Simkin
To be saved from sin and death is the greatest blessing that humanity can receive. Men naturally fear death. All desire to be saved from it. But its cause, sin, is not so much feared. The inseparable relations between sin and death are not considered. Some teach the doctrine of Universalism, and try to satisfy themselves with its comforts. Others teach that only a select few can ever hope to receive the inestimable gift of eternal life. That all men are provided with the means of salvation, and either receive it or lose it by their own choice, is very plainly taught in God's Word. Some very positive statements are made by the great apostle to the Gentiles in his epistle to Titus. Beginning with the eleventh verse of the second chapter, we read that "the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men." Grace is unmerited favor. This favor, a gift of God, brings salvation. No restrictions are made, simply a positive statement that salvation accompanies it, and further that it hath appeared to all men. This one verse tells the whole story in a way that can not be misunderstood; but to make the instruction sure, the following verses tell us that we must deny, or overcome, worldly lusts, and live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world. This phrase, "in this present world," indicates to us unmistakably that another world follows this one. Not a single intimation is given to indicate that the blessing of salvation is restricted to certain individuals. Conditions entirely in our own hands are presented, and we are urged to enter the open door. One more verse completes the thought. It says that we should be "looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." The whole duty of man seems to be summed up in these verses. That we should deny ungodliness and worldly lusts is not more plainly impressed upon us than that we should be looking for those great, striking spectacles, the resurrection of the dead and the second coming of the Saviour. No fact in the Bible is more plainly stated than that all men have salvation provided for them freely, willingly, and in the mercy of God, that is, by his grace. This grace brings with it salvation, and that to all men. What a wonderful gift! And knowing the weakness of men, the Saviour not only provides the salvation, but says to all, "My grace is sufficient for thee." In view of these sure statements, what a terrible thing it is to reject the offers of mercy, to do despite to the Spirit of grace, and fail finally to receive eternal life. "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near." "He is not far from each one of us."