Many have said that the Reformation was the recovery of the biblical doctrine of assurance. That is our conviction here at Theocast. By the doctrine of assurance, we mean the truth that sinners can be assured of their standing before God. They have peace with Him, are in a state of grace, and will never be put to shame. These wonderful truths are at the heart of the Gospel. Sinners, who are truly guilty and corrupt, are safe and secure in Christ by faith. Praise be to His name.(From the introduction.)This primer is a conversation between three pastors, who, at times, themselves, have struggled with assurance of salvation. The conversation is straightforward, compassionate, and pointed. They help explain why many believers in our current church context struggle with assurance, and how the Bible’s teaching on the sufficiency of Christ leads us to peace and rest.
A short and concise view from a confessional and reformed baptist perspective. This primer is not an in-depth treatment at all, a 50 or so page primer, and it knows it. This is a benefit as the authors use their short work to explain the simple difference between trusting oneself and trusting in Christ alone by faith for salvation as well as how the same truth applies to our sanctification. We often view the gospel as the key to the house, yet think we need new or different things to navigate the house; God saves us through faith in the gospel, and we now live as His children by faith in those same promises. I recommend for someone who may be struggling with their assurance, to point them extra nos, or outside of themselves to Jesus, the true and faithful Son who unashamedly calls us His brothers. We are adopted by God, trust in Him, not yourself, He will assure you of your salvation.
The Theocast podcast has been instrumental in helping me break free from the chains of a works based theology. This book was just a continuation of the great conversations you hear every episode, and I wish I could’ve read it years ago.