Assurance of salvation Quote by William Cunningham
““The history of the church seems to indicate to us two positions as true, with reference to this matter,—viz. lst, That assurance of salvation has been enjoyed more fully and more generally by men who were called to difficult and arduous labours in the cause of Christ, than by ordinary believers in general; and 2dly, That this assurance, as enjoyed by such persons, has been frequently traceable to special circumstances connected with the manner of their conversion as its immediate or proximate cause. So it certainly was with the Reformers.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The History of the Church, 19th century
The quote argues that historically, those who endured great hardships for Christ felt stronger assurance of salvation, often linked to dramatic conversion experiences, unlike ordinary believers.
In simple terms: Hardship and dramatic conversion boost confidence in salvation.
Recognize how struggle can deepen faith.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- missionary work
- spiritual counseling
- historical study
- personal testimony
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal hardship influence your spiritual confidence?
- Can assurance be cultivated without extreme trials?
Not all believers experience such intense assurance; personal faith varies.