The Reality of Visions and the Biblical Plan of Salvation

There is an old saying that goes, “When you talk to God it is called prayer. When God speaks to you it is called schizophrenia.” This sentiment is often shared by skeptics and those who question the authenticity of divine revelations. In this article, we will explore the idea of visions from a theological perspective and discuss the Biblical plan of salvation.

Your Pastor Had a Vision for You

It is not uncommon for pastors and other religious leaders to claim that God has given them specific visions or revelations. While these claims are made with the utmost sincerity, it is important to approach them with skepticism and critical thinking. There are several reasons why such claims should be evaluated carefully:

1. The Bible and Visions

The Bible is the primary source of divine revelation for Christians. It is clear that the Bible contains the only true and reliable messages from God. While the Bible does mention instances of divine visions in its historical texts, it does not support the notion that such visions are happening to modern believers. 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 states: “Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears.”

2. Hebrews 1:1-2

The apostle Paul writes in Hebrews 1:1-2: “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom also he made the universe.” This passage emphasizes that God's Revelation has come to a close, and we must rely on the Son and the Scriptures to guide us.

3. Salvation and the Biblical Plan

The core of Christian faith is the Plan of Salvation, which is the way we are to be saved from our sins. The Bible provides clear guidelines for this process, starting with the acknowledgment of our sinfulness and need for God's grace. Here’s a detailed look at the Biblical plan of salvation:

Step 1: Acknowledge Sinfulness (Acts 16:30-31)

Acts 16:30-31 records a conversation between the Philippian jailer and Paul and Silas: “They asked him, ‘What must we do to be saved?’ He replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved – you and your household.’” This passage points to the act of believing in Jesus Christ as the essential step in salvation.

Step 2: Acknowledge Human Sinfulness (James 2:10, Revelation 21:8)

James 2:10 states, “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” This emphasizes that no one is perfect, and everyone is guilty of sin. Revelation 21:8 identifies lying as a sin that will be punished in eternity, highlighting the severity of sin.

Step 3: Acknowledge Faith as a Work of Grace (Galatians 2:16)

Galatians 2:16 asserts that “it is not by works of the law but through faith in Christ that we are justified.” This passage underlines that salvation through faith is not based on our own efforts but rather on the grace of God.

Step 4: Acknowledge the Sonship of Christ (Hebrews 4:15)

Hebrews 4:15 states, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to feel compassion, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” This passage confirms Jesus' human nature and his ability to empathize with human struggles.

Step 5: Acknowledge Christ’s Sacrifice (Matthew 12, 26, Luke 23, John 19-20, Ephesians 4)

The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) describe in detail the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. These accounts are crucial for understanding the concept of salvation. Ephesians 4:8-10 emphasizes the importance of Christ's death and resurrection for our salvation: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Until we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”

Step 6: Acknowledge the Exclusivity of Christ (John 14:6)

John 14:6 states, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” This statement makes it clear that Jesus is the only way to salvation.

Through these steps, Christians are encouraged to reflect on their faith and ensure that they are following the Biblical plan of salvation. This involves acknowledging their sinfulness, understanding the importance of faith by grace alone, and recognizing the unique role of Jesus Christ in their salvation.

Conclusion

While visions may provide personal comfort and guidance, they should not be taken as divine mandates or as decisive proof of God’s will. Instead, a strong foundation in the Bible and the teachings of Jesus should be the basis for one’s faith. The Biblical plan of salvation, grounded in God’s Word and the work of Christ, provides a clear and reliable framework for those seeking salvation.

If you have any questions or concerns about your faith, it is important to seek counsel from trusted religious leaders and study the Bible to deepen your understanding of God's truth.