Salvation by grace through faith; Arminian; ongoing sanctification; apostasy possible
The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel teaches salvation as God's gracious gift received through faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation involves justification (forgiveness and right standing with God), regeneration (new life through the Holy Spirit), and ongoing sanctification (growth in holiness and Christlikeness). The Church affirms Arminian theology: salvation is freely offered to all through prevenient grace, human choice is genuine and free, and apostasy is possible through willful sin.
Sanctification is understood as a process initiated by the Holy Spirit at conversion and continuing throughout the Christian life, distinct from entire sanctification as taught in holiness traditions. The Church emphasizes the power of the Spirit in the believer's life and the reality of transformation through faith. Believers are expected to grow in grace, overcome sin, and live holy lives, empowered by the Spirit's indwelling presence.
Key Distinctions
- Justification means:
- grace through faith; continuous growth in sanctification
- Election type:
- conditional — foreseen faith (Arminian)
- Baptismal regeneration:
- denied — baptism is symbol, not means of salvation
- Eternal security:
- rejected — apostasy possible through willful sin and unbelief
Scripture References
Sources
- International Church of the Foursquare Gospel Declaration of Faith
- Foursquare Church official teaching on salvation and sanctification