What does it mean to "be saved"

All humans are sinners by nature and by action, as articulated in Romans 3:23, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Being saved means being forgiven for these sins. We all know this from personal experience.

Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." This indicates that salvation is not earned by good deeds but is a gift received through faith.

Jesus Christ's death on the cross is seen as an atonement for humanity's sins. Romans 5:8 explains, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." His resurrection is proof of his power over death, providing a pathway for eternal life for those who believe in him.

Part of being saved involves repentance, which means turning away from sin. Acts 3:19 says, "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."

Being saved also implies a transformation.
2 Corinthians 5:17 notes, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This new life is characterized by living according to the teachings of Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Salvation promises eternal life. John 3:16, one of the most quoted verses, says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Being saved includes justification (being declared righteous in God's sight) and sanctification (the process of becoming more holy or Christ-like over time). While this process aims at reducing sin in a believer's life, it does not imply that a Christian will reach a state of sinless perfection on Earth. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 speaks of God sanctifying believers completely, but this is often understood as an ongoing process that culminates in the afterlife.
If you'd like to talk about being saved or have any questions just talk to a Christian friend or comment below!