The Possibility and Blessing of Assurance (Chapter 18, Paragraph 1)

“Although temporary believers, and other unregenerate men, may vainly deceive themselves with false hopes and carnal presumptions…”

The Confession begins by distinguishing false assurance from true assurance. Some people, while unconverted, persuade themselves they are saved. Jesus warns of this in Matthew 7:22–23, where people claim allegiance to Christ yet are rejected. This false assurance rests on emotional experiences, moral efforts, or religious rituals—but lacks true faith and regeneration. Such assurance is “vain,” a dangerous delusion.

“…of being in the favour of God and state of salvation…”

False assurance imagines one is right with God while remaining in rebellion against Him. These individuals may say the right words and even appear moral, but they lack the internal transformation wrought by the Holy Spirit. A true sense of being in God’s favor is not manmade—it is a work of grace.

“…which hope of theirs shall perish…”

This chilling phrase echoes Job 8:13, “The hope of the godless shall perish.” False assurance is not merely incorrect—it is deadly. No one should rest in feelings, decisions, or religious activity alone. Assurance without Christ is a deception that ends in ruin. This warning sets the stage for the hope of genuine assurance.

“Yet such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus…”

Now comes the contrast. The confession turns to true believers—those who genuinely trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Faith in Christ is not just agreement with facts but trust in His person and work. Such believers may indeed attain assurance—not perfectly, and not without struggle—but truly and rightly.

“…and love him in sincerity…”

Love for Christ marks the true believer. It is not a love of convenience or benefit, but sincere affection for the Savior. Those who love Christ will keep His commandments (John 14:15). This love is not the basis of salvation, but the fruit of it—evidence that grace is alive within.

“…endeavoring to walk in all good conscience before him…”

True assurance accompanies a sincere life of obedience. This is not perfection, but direction. The believer who desires to honor God, repents of sin, and seeks holiness is walking in a way that gives evidence of salvation. Such a walk does not earn assurance—it reflects the Spirit’s work and encourages it.

“…may in this life be certainly assured that they are in the state of grace…”

This is the Confession’s joyful declaration: assurance is possible in this life. It is not reserved for deathbeds or mystical experiences. It may be possessed by ordinary believers who walk humbly with God. “These things I have written to you… that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13).

“…and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God…”

Assurance leads to joy. The believer who knows he belongs to Christ rejoices not only in the present but in the future. The “hope of glory” is the confident expectation of heaven. This hope does not disappoint (Rom. 5:2–5), for it is grounded in Christ’s finished work.

“…which hope shall never make them ashamed.”

Unlike the false hopes mentioned earlier, the hope born of true assurance is secure. It will not be put to shame. The believer who rests in Christ will never be abandoned or disillusioned. God is faithful to complete what He has begun.

Application for the Believer:

Do you know that you belong to Christ? If not, don’t settle for empty religion or emotional confidence. True assurance comes from looking to Jesus, not inward feelings. If your faith is in Him, your love is genuine, and you desire to walk with Him—take heart. You may have assurance, not because you are strong, but because He is faithful.

If you lack assurance, seek it through the means God has given: the promises of His Word, the inward witness of the Spirit, and the fruit of obedience. Ask the Lord to grant you the joy of knowing you are His. Assurance is not only possible—it is a gift to be pursued for God’s glory and your good.