The question of whether a believer can lose their salvation is one of the most emotionally and spiritually charged topics in Christian life. For many, it’s rooted in personal experience—seasons of doubt, failure, or feeling distant from God. Others wrestle with it theologically, seeking clarity in what Scripture actually says.
This post walks you through 15 powerful Bible verses about losing your salvation and the conditions around remaining in God’s grace. While some scriptures warn against falling away, others remind us of God’s sustaining power. The goal isn’t to spark fear, but to encourage reflection, faithfulness, and a deeper understanding of what salvation really means.
1. Hebrews 6:4–6
Hebrews 6:4–6
For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
Explanation:
This is one of the clearest warnings in Scripture. It describes those who fully experienced the blessings of salvation but chose to reject it. The passage emphasizes the seriousness of turning away from Christ after truly knowing Him.
2. John 15:6
John 15:6
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
Explanation:
Jesus uses the image of the vine and branches to show that staying connected to Him is essential. Branches that stop abiding in Him are cast away, symbolizing judgment.
3. 2 Peter 2:20–21
2 Peter 2:20–21
For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
Explanation:
Peter warns that turning back to sin after knowing Jesus results in a worse condition than never having known Him. This emphasizes personal responsibility in remaining faithful.
4. Matthew 7:21–23
Matthew 7:21–23
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Explanation:
This sobering passage shows that outward acts don’t equal true salvation. God values obedience and relationship, not just religious performance.
5. Galatians 5:4
Galatians 5:4
Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
Explanation:
Paul addresses believers who tried to be justified by the law rather than by faith. He says they’ve fallen from grace, highlighting the danger of turning from the true gospel.
6. Revelation 3:5
Revelation 3:5
He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
Explanation:
Jesus promises eternal life to those who remain faithful. The phrase “I will not blot out his name” implies that it is possible for names to be removed from the book of life.
7. 1 Corinthians 9:27
1 Corinthians 9:27
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
Explanation:
Paul stresses self-discipline in the Christian life. Even he, a devoted apostle, expressed concern about being disqualified if he didn’t live according to his faith.
8. Ezekiel 18:24
Ezekiel 18:24
But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity… all his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass… shall he die.
Explanation:
This Old Testament verse warns that turning away from righteousness nullifies previous faithfulness. It shows the importance of perseverance.
9. Hebrews 10:26–27
Hebrews 10:26–27
For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
Explanation:
This verse warns about the consequences of deliberate, willful sin after knowing the truth. It underscores the seriousness of rejecting God’s grace.
10. Luke 8:13
Luke 8:13
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy… but in time of temptation fall away.
Explanation:
In the parable of the sower, Jesus describes people who initially accept the gospel but abandon it when testing comes. It’s a reminder that lasting faith must be rooted deep.
11. Romans 11:22
Romans 11:22
Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
Explanation:
Paul emphasizes both God’s mercy and justice. Believers must continue in God’s grace, or they risk being “cut off.”
12. 1 Timothy 1:19
1 Timothy 1:19
Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck.
Explanation:
Paul speaks of those who have abandoned faith and suffered spiritual ruin. Staying true to our convictions is vital to finishing the race.
13. Matthew 24:13
Matthew 24:13
But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Explanation:
Jesus emphasizes endurance. Salvation is not just about beginning in faith—it’s about continuing until the end.
14. 2 Timothy 4:10
2 Timothy 4:10
For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica…
Explanation:
Demas was once a fellow laborer with Paul but chose worldly comforts over ministry. His story shows how turning away from God is a real possibility.
15. Revelation 2:5
Revelation 2:5
Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Explanation:
Jesus tells the church at Ephesus to return to their first love or face removal. This highlights how drifting away spiritually can have consequences unless corrected.
Final Thoughts: Walking Faithfully in Grace
These Bible verses about losing your salvation don’t aim to scare, but rather to inspire sincere, enduring faith. Salvation is a gift, but Scripture clearly calls believers to guard it with care, humility, and obedience. We are not saved by works—but genuine salvation produces fruit and remains anchored in Christ.
If you’re struggling with doubt, know that God is patient and full of mercy. He invites you back every time with open arms. Let His Word strengthen your walk, and lean on His Spirit for daily renewal.
What’s your experience with this topic? Has a particular verse stood out to you? Share your thoughts, questions, or favorite scriptures in the comments below!