Reviews

by Clint Wagnon, Lead Pastor

Here is one of the prized works in my library that I have found myself returning to many times over the past several years. I first met Millard Erickson in New Orleans when I was working on my masters program in the late 90′s. He was a guest lecturer at the seminary, facilitating a week-long seminar on postmodernism and faith. He is one of the most regarded and renowned theologians of our day. But this little book (159 pages) doesn’t read like it was written by a dusty theologian. It is approachable and understandable and actually very enjoyable. When I begin discipling a young believer, there are only about three books I strongly recommend along with the Bible, and this is one of them.

Does It Matter That I’m Saved takes the treasure chest of soteriology (doctrine of salvation) and breaks it down and unpacks it in a way that not only illuminates, but inspires. When someone really begins to wrap their heart and soul around the truths inside this book, they are building their faith on solid biblical ground. That sure foundation will prove invaluable when the inevitable difficulties and storms rise and beat against the house that faith built.

Erickson uses winsome and plain language to explain conversion, faith, justification, regeneration, adoption, sanctification, assurance and glorification. The major themes of the New Testament letters. One glaring omission from his treatment of salvation is the issue of predestination. He leaves that complicated little gem for another place and time.

The book is no longer in print, but you can still find it on Amazon. Get it. Read it. Give it away. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy.

[See also my series on soteriology called Unwrapping the Gift.]