We need to take scripture in context or that text will con you. Take Hebrews 12:14 as an excellent example. Taken isolated - we dream up all sorts of man-made traditions. But it context with "other" scriptures around it - it becomes evident what is being spoken about here.
Hebrews 12:12-15 (NASB)
[SUP]12 [/SUP] Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble,
[SUP]13 [/SUP] and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed.
[SUP]14 [/SUP] Pursuepeace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.
[SUP]15 [/SUP]See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled;
The context of this verse, Hebrews 12:13 instructs us to not walk in a manner that will cause others to stumble.
Therefore, I believe this verse isn’t talking about us seeing God but rather that if we don’t act in a holy manner, no one will see God in our lives. ( we are a living epistle )
That would certainly be a true statement that is not only consistent with Hebrews 12:14 but leads perfectly into Hebrews 12:15.
Our actions don’t earn the grace of God. That wouldn’t be grace (Romans 11:6). Therefore, we don’t fall from grace by not being holy enough to earn it. Galatians 5:4 speaks of falling from grace by putting faith in our works instead of having our faith firmly placed in Christ and what He did for us. So, the way people “fail of the grace of God” is through legalism.
Hebrews 12:15 -Notice that bitterness in our lives doesn’t just hurt or poison us but many people. Again the context of this verse shows that we are supposed to walk in a manner that influences others in a positive way. If we get bitter, that bitterness will affect others.
Works-based salvationsists have used this verse to beat people with for years as we know we are sanctified forever in our inner man now and we do need to work out what is already in us in Christ in our outward behavior.
This has nothing to do with " becoming un-born as a Christian" and not seeing the Lord ourselves and thus losing the free gift He gave us in Christ's finished work.
