In this sermon, Pope Shenouda III explains that salvation is a divine invitation offered to all humanity, not a predetermined choice of some over others. God desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth, but accepting this salvation depends on each person’s will and response to God’s grace.

Salvation and Human Will:
God does not choose some people for destruction and others for salvation. Rather, He gives every person the freedom to choose between good and evil, life and death. Human destiny depends on one’s own decisions, deeds, and repentance. God extends His hand to all, but those who refuse to respond are the ones who move away from life.

God’s Justice and Wisdom:
Pope Shenouda rejects the idea that God predestines anyone to perish, for that would contradict His justice and love. God does not delight in the death of the sinner but desires that he turns and lives. Even when God pronounces judgment, if a person repents, God relents—because His love never changes; it is the person who changes.

Faith and Works:
Faith alone is not enough; it must be accompanied by righteous deeds. A believer can fall and perish if he turns away from faith. Therefore, no one should say “I am a believer, so I cannot perish,” for Scripture itself warns against spiritual backsliding and lukewarmness.

Spiritual Responsibility:
God honors human free will but will also judge everyone justly according to their actions. There is no room for complacency or reliance on grace without sincere repentance. Grace is freely given, yet receiving it requires active cooperation and continuous spiritual struggle.

Call to Perseverance in Faith:
Pope Shenouda urges believers to remain steadfast in faith and righteous living, for those who abide in Christ abide in life. Those who leave God’s hand by their own will choose destruction for themselves. Christ never rejects anyone, but some freely walk away from Him.

Spiritual Conclusion:
God is faithful to His promises, but His promises are for the victorious—those who live righteously and endure to the end. Therefore, each person should live in repentance and watchfulness, knowing that salvation is a precious gift conditioned upon perseverance in faith and good works.

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