The Bible Line - October 16, 2018

Jamie, Seattle, WA -  A couple of weeks ago you mentioned an area where John Piper was off in his theology  (Israel),  and I so appreciate your shepherd’s heart in protecting your flock.   I know you take pains to walk that fine line of discernment and warning, but also acknowledging that there are many who stray from Truth in some areas but are still brothers in Christ.  My question is about John Piper’s gospel message.  He has stated many times this idea of ‘final salvation’ which much follow justification and without this final salvation of obedience you will not enter heaven.   I have heard him say similar things many times and it certainly adds works to salvation, no long Faith Alone in Christ Alone.   I will include a couple of recent quotes from his blogs.  I just have trouble saying he shares the gospel accurately.  I wonder what your opinion is of this idea of ‘final salvation’ after justification. Seems that it takes the ‘Free’ out of Salvation being a free gift.  Romans 5:15,  Romans 6:23 and Ephesians 2:8,9. --- "So, we should not speak of getting to heaven by faith alone in the same way we are justified by faith alone. Love, the fruit of faith, is the necessary confirmation that we have faith and are alive. We won’t enter heaven until we have it. There is a holiness without which we will not see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). Essential to the Christian life and necessary for final salvation is the killing of sin (Romans 8:13) and the pursuit of holiness (Hebrews 12:14).John Piper, Sept. 13, 2017. DesiringGod blog.