I came across this meme online, and while it's meant to be humorous, its concept can be misleading if taken out of context. The three scriptures quoted seem to contradict each other about salvation, but God is not the author of confusion. These verses, though written in different contexts, all point to the same truth: salvation.
The ultimate reality is that God desires all men to be saved, not just a select few. That's why John 3:16 says He gave His Son for the whole world.
Romans 10:13 Paul, in Romans 10, addresses Israel's misunderstanding of righteousness and ignorance towards knowing rightly and also explains God's plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles, generally for the whole world. In verses 9–10, he teaches that salvation doesn't come via the works of the Law, but through faith, actively confessing and believing that God raised Christ from the dead. Verses 11–12 emphasize there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles, man is one; the same Lord is rich to all who call on Him. Verse 13 our focal point, then concludes the thought that salvation is universally available to anyone who earnestly calls on the name of the Lord.
Matthew 7:21 This verse comes from Jesus's Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7). In chapter 7, He warns against false prophets in verses 15–20 and teaches that genuine discipleship is proven by the fruits exhibited as a result of a transformed life, not by mere words or religiosity. In verses 21–23, He makes it clear that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" truly belongs to Him. Some may profess Him with their lips, but lack a sincere relationship with Him. Prophet Simon Thomas would classify them as mental ascenders, ever learning but never coming to the knowledge of the truth. Salvation isn't about religious appearances; it's about truly knowing Christ and allowing His salvation to produce fruit in us.
Acts 2:39 This verse follows Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost. After the people were moved to the heart (touched by the sermon, vs. 37), they asked, "What shall we do?" Peter replied (vs. 38), "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Then in verse 39, he assures them that this promise isn't limited to them alone but extends to future generations and "all who are far off," that is, the Gentiles as well. While the covenant promises were first given to Israel, salvation in Christ has been made available to the whole world.
There's no contradiction here. Romans 10:13 emphasizes the universal availability of salvation. Matthew 7:21 reminds us that calling on the Lord must be genuine, not superficial. Acts 2:39 assures us that God's promise of salvation is for every generation and every nation. Together, these scriptures affirm the same truth, the truth that God's heart is for the world to be saved through Christ, and those who sincerely repent and believe will be partakers of this promise.
Image is a screenshot
Posted Using INLEO