Am I Truly Saved? Understanding TULIP and Salvation

1. Five Points of Reformed Doctrine for the Assurance of Salvation (TULIP)

“For by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
(Ephesians 2:8, NIV)

Many Christians struggle with questions like:

• “Am I truly saved?”
• “If my faith wavers, will my salvation disappear?”
• “Has God really chosen me?”

The answer to these questions can be found in TULIP, the Five Points of Reformed Soteriology:

• T (Total Depravity)
• U (Unconditional Election)
• L (Limited Atonement)
• I (Irresistible Grace)
• P (Perseverance of the Saints)

These five teachings summarize the core doctrines of Calvinism, formulated at the Synod of Dort (1618–1619) in response to Arminianism.

This doctrine provides a clear understanding of salvation and how God sustains us, offering believers assurance of their salvation.

Let’s examine each of these doctrines and explore how they apply to our faith and daily life.

2. Detailed Explanation of Each Doctrine

📌 2.1 Total Depravity – Man is Utterly Sinful

“There is none righteous, not even one.” (Romans 3:10, NIV)

We often assume:
“I’ve lived a good life, so I can go to heaven, right?”
But the Bible says:

“No. Human beings do not naturally seek God, nor can they choose salvation on their own.”

Total Depravity means that every part of human nature—our heart, will, and intellect—has been corrupted by sin.

💡 Application:

• Acknowledge that we are undeserving of salvation and must depend entirely on God’s grace.
• Realize that our efforts or good deeds cannot lead us to God; we need total grace.
• Approach faith not as self-improvement, but with a humble heart that seeks God’s mercy.

📌 2.2 Unconditional Election – God’s Choice is Unconditional

“He chose us in him before the foundation of the world.” (Ephesians 1:4, NIV)

Many people think:
“I chose to believe in God.”
But the Bible teaches the opposite:

“Salvation begins with God choosing us first.”

God predestined those who would be saved before creation, based solely on His sovereign will, not our actions.

💡 Application:

• Recognize that salvation is purely by grace and give thanks.
• Because God chose us, there is no room for pride or despair.

📌 2.3 Limited Atonement – Jesus’ Death Absolutely Secures Salvation

“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11, NIV)

Many believe that Jesus died for all people indiscriminately, but Reformed theology teaches otherwise:

“Jesus’ atonement was specifically for those whom God chose, ensuring their salvation.”

Jesus’ sacrifice was not just a possibility for all, but a definitive act that effectively secured salvation for His people.

💡 Application:

• Jesus’ death is not a vague offer, but a powerful, effective salvation for God’s elect.
• We have a responsibility to share the gospel, trusting that God will draw His chosen people.

📌 2.4 Irresistible Grace – God’s Grace Always Achieves Its Purpose

“All that the Father gives me will come to me.” (John 6:37, NIV)

God’s grace is not merely an invitation—it powerfully transforms those whom He calls.

This does not mean that God forces people to believe, but that the Holy Spirit moves our hearts so that we willingly come to Christ.

💡 Application:

• Be grateful that God called us, rather than us choosing Him.
• When sharing the gospel, trust in the Holy Spirit’s work—salvation does not depend on our efforts alone.

📌 2.5 Perseverance of the Saints – God Holds Us to the End

“He who began a good work will carry it on to completion at the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6, NIV)

When our faith weakens, we might think:

“Have I lost my salvation?”

The Bible assures us that:

“God’s elect will endure in faith until the end, and He will sustain them.”

Even if we stumble and struggle, we will never be completely abandoned by God. This is the assurance of salvation that Reformed theology emphasizes.

💡 Application:

• Trust that God will never let go of you, no matter your struggles.
• Live with confidence in your salvation, knowing it is based on God’s faithfulness, not your own efforts.

3. TULIP and the Westminster Shorter Catechism on Salvation

The doctrine of TULIP is fully aligned with the Westminster Shorter Catechism, reinforcing the sovereignty of God in salvation and the unchanging nature of His grace.

4. Conclusion: Am I Truly Saved?

✨ TULIP’s Assurance of Salvation

✅ Salvation is not earned by human effort—it is a gift of God’s grace.
✅ If God has chosen me, His choice is unchanging.
✅ Jesus’ sacrifice is not just a potential offer, but a powerful act of salvation.
✅ If the Holy Spirit has drawn me, I will surely come to God.
✅ God sustains His people to the end—we are never abandoned.

If you believe in God and trust in Jesus Christ, isn’t that evidence that God has already called you?

📖 Hold onto God’s Promises, Not Your Feelings

When doubts arise—
“Am I truly saved?”

Look not to your emotions, but to God’s Word.

“We are saved by grace through faith.” (Ephesians 2:8)

Our salvation is secured in Christ, and He will never let us go.
Let us live in the joy and confidence of His unfailing grace. 🙌