Thanks for the nice replies, people.
If a saved person DOES sin, is he/she still saved?
Of course, although I still believe you’re obliged to acknowledge the fact you have sinned and pray for forgiveness. Why would God forgive us if we don’t ask? Doesn’t make sense. I also believe you should pray that the Holy Spirit will work within you to avoid sinning in the future.
If a saved person DOES sin, was that person really saved in the first place?
Logic would suggest yes. It is virtually impossible not to sin at some point in our lives–regardless of who you are and what church you happen to follow. Personally, I don’t think a person is saved without ever (truly) repenting though; that’s denial of God’s grace and consequently, denial of the Holy Spirit.
Different Protestants will have different views on repentance. Believe it or not, I’ve been told by one Protestant that “repentance is just a Catholic thing”; which is appalling. To me, that says " I know I sin but have no intention of ever changing. I can’t help it and it’s not a big deal". Rubbish. Sin is what separates man from God and results in spiritual death, how is that not a big deal? Shouldn’t we be praying to avoid sin and become closer to God?
Most of us, however, believe repentance is real and it demonstrates a persons willingness to change and grow in the grace of God. One aspect that Protestants have difficulty coming to terms with is the Catholic view of Jesus’ sacrifice and consequently, the forgiveness we receive because of it.
Having to “do things” (as some say) in order to get into heaven undermines the nature of Jesus’ sacrifice because it renders it incomplete. Shouldn’t His perfect sacrifice be enough to attain forgiveness? If someone could help me on that question I’d be very grateful.