Burn
I believe Jesus is both the "Author and Finisher" of my faith. (Heb 12:2)
So when I see verses like the ones you site (Matt. 24:13; cf. 25:31–46), I know that endurance is a sign of the faithful (or the elect), not a condition for salvation.
I would love to see how you square up your belief with verses like this for example:
Romans 9:16
So then
it is not of the
one willing, nor of the
one running, but of God, the
One showing mercy
17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, "FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE I RAISED YOU UP, TO DEMONSTRATE MY POWER IN YOU, AND THAT MY NAME MIGHT BE PROCLAIMED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE EARTH."
18 So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
19 You will say to me then, "Why does He still find fault? For who resists His will?"
If God is doing the hardening, how do you blame the person that doesn't finish? or the person who resists God's will?
D Dog