This is a common question: how do I know I am saved? It came up recently as we were discussing the doctrine of eternal security or the perseverance of the saints. If the only absolute cast iron guarantee somebody is saved is that they continue following Jesus until the end, how can I have any assurance about their salvation today? I think there are a few things to say here.

First, we can know personally that we are saved by the Holy Spirit who assures our hearts. 2 Corinthians 1:22, 5:5 and Ephesians 1:13-14, 4:30 all speak about the seal of the Holy Spirit assuring us of our salvation. It is possible to be absolutely assured of salvation by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us.

Second, we know personally that we are saved if we have any love whatsoever for the biblical Jesus. The bible is quite clear that we are dead in our trespasses and sins (cf. Eph 2:1). Dead people do not love anyone nor do they will things. They are dead! The bible speaks about the natural mind being at enmity with God (cf. Rom 8:7). This means, by nature, we cannot and will not have any love for the biblical Jesus. If we do have genuine love for the biblical Jesus, this is strong evidence that we have been awakened by the Holy Spirit and given a new heart that loves him. Love for Jesus is absolutely at odds with our natural ability; love for Jesus is evidence of salvation.

Third, we can know that we are saved when we listen to Jesus and obey him. Jesus himself said, ‘if you love me, you will keep my commandments’ (John 14:15). Similarly, he said ‘my sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me’ (John 10:27). If we have any desire to do the commands of Christ, if we have any ability to obey Jesus, this is good evidence that the Holy Spirit has been at work and made us right with God.

These are three principal signs that we truly belong to Jesus. The only absolute guarantee that we belong to Jesus is that we continue in these things until the end. But what ultimately matters is today. Are we following Jesus today? Are we hearing his voice today? Do we have any love for the Lord Jesus today? If we do, we can assure our hearts that we belong to him and he, in turn, will not let us go.