How can you know for sure that you are really a "born again" Christian, that your sins are forgiven, that you are saved from the wrath of God and that you will enjoy eternal life in heaven with Him?
The Apostle Paul writes; Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you-- unless indeed you fail the test? (2 Corinthians 13:5)
Since the beginning of the Church, up to this present day, there are those who claim to be Christians, who are in reality, "false converts". These false converts have deceived not only others, but themselves and may have even done many so called "good Christian works". However, God knows their unbelieving hearts and He is not deceived; Many will say to Me on that day, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles? And I will declare to them, "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness." (Matthew 7:21-23)
Are you truly saved? Examine yourself and consider the following questions:
1. Do you understand and believe that you have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) and that the penalty for sin is death? Not just physical death, but "spiritual death", eternal separation from God in a literal Hell? (Romans 6:23a)
2. Do you understand and believe that there is nothing you can say or do to earn or deserve forgiveness of sins and justification before God? Not your church attendance, baptism, charitable giving, or any other so called good or righteous work will satisfy God's penalty for sin because you were dead in your trespasses and sins... (Ephesians 2:1a)
3. Do you understand and believe that you are forgiven and have been justified by faith alone in the finished work of Jesus Christ alone? (Romans 5:1)
4. Do you really love God and God's people? Jesus said, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments." and "The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love." (John 14:15) (1 John 4:7-21)
Go ahead... Examine yourselves! Maranatha!