and if they lose salvation they are accounted as having never been saved
No, it's not the same, and now I understand what you've been saying, and I think I understand your reluctance to give a clear answer.
"The saved can lose salvation that they never had having lost it."
Colossians 3:1-4 KJV
1)
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
3) For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
4) When Christ, who is our life, shall appear,
then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
If you are risen with Christ . . . when He appears, you shall also appear with Him.
Much love!