Please explain to me why the Bible talks about examining yourself to make sure you are in the faith when there is also the doctrine of once saved always saved. Also the book of 1st John is all about making sure that your in the faith. Your insights are greatly appreciated.
There are two components to our salvation. One involves living in eternity with Jesus and is guaranteed the moment we ask for it. The other is living in fellowship with God here on Earth and enjoying His guidance and blessing. This requires that we confess when we sin so we can be purified from our unrighteousness and restored to fellowship with Him. (1 John 1:9) Only the first is necessary for eternal life, but both are required to achieve the victorious life on Earth that the Bible speaks much about.