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A Biblical Look At Calvinism |
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A Biblical Look at Calvinism By George Anderson Jr Edited and Compiled by Chette Nichols Jr For
the last few months I have been doing a study on Calvinism (not yet completed) which is far too lengthy to post in a single
Post, and so over the next few days (weeks? ) I shall Post my personal study on this issue in six parts - #1. An Introduction;
#2. "Total Depravity"; #3. "Unconditional Election"; #4. "Limited Atonement"; #5. "Irresistible Grace"; and #6. "Perseverance
of the Saints". {T.U.L.I.P. - the famous acronym associated with Calvinistic beliefs} Doctrinal
matters and differences cannot be settled by a couple of verses and a few comments. Although much of the Bible is "plain to
him that understandeth", there "are some things hard to be understood". There is the "milk of the word" and then there is
the "strong meat": 1 Corinthians
3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. Hebrews
5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of
the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. Hebrews
1 Peter
2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:1 Corinthians 3:2 I have fed you with
milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. Hebrews
5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of
the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. Hebrews
When dealing with John Calvin's Doctrines (Calvinism) it is necessary to get into some
"strong meat" and those who delve into this issue must - "have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil". Quote: The
Five Points of Calvinism {THE
CALVINIST CORNER <> www.calvinistcorner.com} There
are two mains camps of theology within Christianity in The
system of Calvinism adheres to a very high view of scripture and seeks to derive its theological formulations based solely
on God’s word. It focuses on God’s sovereignty, stating that God is able and willing by virtue of his omniscience,
omnipresence, and omnipotence, to do whatever He desires with His creation. It also maintains that within the Bible are the
following teachings: That God, by His sovereign grace predestines people into salvation; that Jesus died only for those predestined;
that God regenerates the individual, where he is then able and wants to choose God; and that it is impossible for those who
are redeemed to lose their salvation. Arminianism,
on the other hand, maintains that God predestined, but not in an absolute sense. Rather, He looked into the future to see
who would pick him and then He chose them. Jesus died for all peoples' sins who have ever lived and ever will live, not just
the Christians. Each person is the one who decides if he wants to be saved or not. And finally, it is possible to lose your
salvation (some Armenians believe you cannot lose your salvation). Then
there are Bible Believers who do not follow either of these schools of theology but simply the King James Bible alone for
their Authority, rule of faith, and practice. Basically,
Calvinism is known by an acronym: T.U.L.I.P. Total
Depravity (also known as Total Inability and Original Sin) Unconditional
Election Limited
Atonement (also known as Particular Atonement) Irresistible
Grace Perseverance
of the Saints (also known as Once Saved Always Saved) These
five categories do not comprise Calvinism in totality. They simply represent
some of its main points. Total Depravity: Sin
has affected all parts of man. The heart, emotions, will, mind, and body are all affected by sin. We are completely sinful.
We are not as sinful as we could be, but we are completely affected by sin. The
doctrine of Total Depravity is derived from scriptures that reveal human character: Man’s heart is evil (Mark Calvinism
also maintains that because of our fallen nature we are born again not by our own will but God’s will (John Unconditional Election: God
does not base His election on anything He sees in the individual. He chooses the elect according to the kind intention of
His will (Eph. 1:4-8; Rom. Limited Atonement: Jesus
died only for the elect. Though Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient for all, it was not efficacious for all. Jesus only
bore the sins of the elect. Support for this position is drawn from such scriptures as Matt. 26:28 where Jesus died for ‘many';
John 10:11, 15 which say that Jesus died for the sheep (not the goats, per Matt. 25:32-33); John 17:9 where Jesus in prayer
interceded for the ones given Him, not those of the entire world; Acts 20:28 and Eph. 5:25-27 which state that the Church
was purchased by Christ, not all people; and Isaiah 53:12 which is a prophecy of Jesus’ crucifixion where he would bore
the sins of many (not all). Irresistible Grace: When
God calls his elect into salvation, they cannot resist. God offers to all people the gospel message. This is called the external
call. But to the elect, God extends an internal call and it cannot be resisted. This call is by the Holy Spirit who works
in the hearts and minds of the elect to bring them to repentance and regeneration whereby they willingly and freely come to
God. Some of the verses used in support of this teaching are Romans 9:16 where it says that "it is not of him who wills nor
of him who runs, but of God who has mercy"; Philippians 2:12-13 where God is said to be the one working salvation in the individual;
John 6:28-29 where faith is declared to be the work of God; Acts 13:48 where God appoints people to believe; and John 1:12-13
where being born again is not by man’s will, but by God’s. Perseverance of the Saints: You
cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected, the Son has redeemed, and the Holy Spirit has applied salvation,
those thus saved are eternally secure. They are eternally secure in Christ. Some of the verses for this position are John
10:27-28 where Jesus said His sheep will never perish; John 6:47 where salvation is described as everlasting life; Romans
8:1 where it is said we have passed out of judgment; 1 Corinthians 10:13 where God promises to never let us be tempted beyond
what we can handle; and Phil. 1:6 where God is the one being faithful to perfect us until the day of Jesus’ return. Before
we can deal with a particular issue concerning the Holy Scriptures, it is best if we define the issue (or the parameters concerning
the issue). I believe that the foregoing description of Calvinism is a fair representation of what Calvinists believe (Please
Notice: The above description of Calvinism is NOT what I “think” it is – the definition is by Calvinists
themselves.) Let
me state from the start: I am NOT a “Calvinist”; or an “Armenian”; or a “Ruckmanite”;
or any other kind of “ist’, “ian”, or “ite”! I am simply a Bible believing Christian.
I do NOT believe in, NOR follow “Calvinism”, “Arminianism”, “Ruckmanism”, or any other
man made “ism”! I believe in the Holy Scriptures (the King James Bible), and endeavor to follow them – NOT
men! Before
we begin a Scriptural examination of John Calvin’s doctrine (Calvinism), in addition to defining Calvinism, it is necessary
to define (according to the Scriptures) the “Attributes” of both God and man, in order to establish a Biblical
Foundation upon which to build good, sound, pure, and uncorrupt doctrine. Later on in this study, it shall become clear as
to why it was necessary to first, establish what man’s “attributes” are, and to discern the distinct purpose
each one of them serves. THE BIBLE’S DESCRIPTION OF GOD God Is a Tri-Part Being: – {Body – Soul – Spirit = God's "Substance"} 1 John
5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 8 And
there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. Matthew
28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
{NOTICE: “NAME” - NOT “NAMES”!} The Substantive Attributes of God are: God Is Eternal = I AM Self
Existing {Without Beginning or End of Existence / Immortal-Perpetual-Unchangeable} Omniscient
{All-Knowing - All-Seeing} Omnipotent
{All Powerful – Unlimited Power} Omnipresent
{Everywhere - Present in all places at the same time} God Possesses a Heart and a Mind = {God’s “Faculties”} 1 Samuel
Jeremiah
Acts
13:22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said,
I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Job
Romans
The Moral Attributes of God are: God Is HOLY HOLY{Perfectly
Pure – Sacred) {HOLINESS is God’s Primary Moral Attribute} Just
{Righteous, Principled, Upright, Equitable, Impartial} Truth
{True, Genuine, Faithful, Honest, Veracity, Fidelity} Love
{Benevolence, Good Will, Charitable} Mercy
{Grace, Pardon, Compassionate, Pitiful} THE BIBLE’S DESCRIPTION OF MAN Man is a Tri-Part Being – {Body - Soul - Spirit = Man’s Substance} Genesis
2:7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became
a living soul. 1 Thessalonians
The Substantive Attributes of Man are: Man is Mortal (With
Beginning and End – Subject to Death, Judgment & Eternal Punishment) Man Has: {Limited
Knowledge & Limited Understanding} {Limited
Power & Limited Abilities} {A
Limited Presence – Confined to His Body} Man possesses a Heart, a Mind, & a Conscience* = {Man’s “Faculties”} 1 Chronicles
28:9 And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind:
for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found
of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Matthew
Mark
Titus
1:15Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind
and conscience is defiled. 1 Timothy
1:5 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: Hebrews
* Adam
was originally created in the “Image of God” (Body, Soul, Spirit, Heart, and Mind). It
is my belief that Adam acquired a conscience along with his sinful nature (and passed these on to mankind) when Adam and Eve
sinned and disobeyed God by partaking of the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The Main Purpose of Man’s Three (3) Faculties The
HEART - MOTIVATES The
MIND - FACILITATES The
CONSCIENCE - REGULATES The Moral Attributes of Man are: Man is Sinful {All
men & women are born with a sinful nature –which adversely affects all of their “Attributes”} ALL OF MAN’S ATTRIBUTES: Man’s “Substance” {Body-Soul-Spirit}
and Man’s “Faculties” {Heart-Mind-Conscience} are adversely affected by his/her sinful nature – and
as such: “For
all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” [Romans A Scriptural
examination into the nature of the attributes of man reveals that, unlike all of God’s other creatures upon earth, man
is a “spiritual” being {soul, spirit, heart, mind, conscience} living within a physical body {our “flesh”}. The
following are the Scriptural Definitions of the words body, soul & spirit {our substance} and conscience, mind, &
heart {our faculties} Webster’s & Strong’s aren't much help when it comes to "spiritual" definitions of certain
Bible words of spiritual importance. THE
BODY (FLESH) = Our Tabernacle [2 Peter 13-14]: The
Scriptures describe the body (flesh) as being that substance within which our soul, spirit, conscience, mind, and heart reside. THE
SOUL {Approximately 498 Verses} = Our Essence: According
to the Scriptures the soul is that substance within a man or a woman, which is the very essence of their being. The soul within
a man or woman is that substance that distinguishes mankind from all of the other living creatures in God’s creation.
The soul is that substance which separates an individual from every other individual and makes them unique. THE
SPIRIT {Approximately 134 Verses} = Our Life: The
spirit (pertaining only to mankind) is that substance {which is given by God} within a man or woman wherein our very life
resides i.e. the spirit is life itself. In the Bible the spirit is separate and distinct from the heart and the soul in purpose,
though it may have some similar characteristics. THE
CONSCIENCE {Approximately 30 Verses} = Our Regulator: The
conscience is that faculty within a man or woman wherein resides the awareness of right and wrong (good and evil), and which
influences the heart and mind as to the lawfulness or unlawfulness of our own affections & actions. According to the Scriptures
the human heart and conscience are separate and distinct from each other in purpose and in operation. {Approximately 30 verses} THE
MIND {Approximately 108 Verses} = Our Facilitator: The
mind is that faculty within a man or woman wherein resides our intellect or intelligence. In the Bible the mind is separate
and distinct from the heart in purpose, though sometimes similar in function and operation. THE
HEART {{Approximately 876 Verses} = Our Motivator The
heart is that faculty within a man or woman which is the center or seat of our: 1. thoughts, 2. meditations, 3. considerations,
4. perceptions, 5. concepts, 6. reasoning, 7.understanding, 8. beliefs, 9.imaginations, 10. fears, 11. doubts, 12. counsels,
13. intents, 14. desires (affections - emotions), and 15. pride. The heart is where the 16. will resides and operates. 1.
Job 17:11; 2. Psalms 19:14; 3. Deuteronomy 8:5; 4. Deuteronomy 29:4; 5. Acts 5:4; 6. Mark 2:8; 7. Proverbs 8:5; 8. Romans
10:9-10; 9. Genesis 6:5; 10. Isaiah 35:4, Luke 21:26; 11. Mark 11:23; 12. Jeremiah 7:24; 13. Hebrews 4:12; 14. Psalms 37:4,
Colossians 3:2; 15. 2 Chronicles 32:26; 16. Psalms 101:2, Psalms 119:69, Psalms 119:145, Isaiah 32:6, 1 Corinthians 7:37,
Ephesians 6:6. It
is absolutely necessary to define words and establish parameters when it comes to Scriptural issues in order to demonstrate
that ALL of the attributes of man (Substance & Faculties) are clearly different from each other and serve a separate and
distinct purpose, although at times, some may be similar in function and operation (for instance: the soul & spirit, or
the mind & heart). The
problem is, that for all of these years (since the time of Calvin and before), most of the “scribes” and “scholars”
have failed to DEFINE the “ATTRIBUTES” of man {according to the Scriptures}, and in failing to do so, they often
confused (i.e. mixed up) the “soul” & the “spirit” (of man). Most of the Reformers believed that
man was a “dichotomy” (that man’s “Substance” consisted of just a body and a soul/spirit –
believing that the soul & the spirit were one and the same thing!) And
not only that, they either failed to recognize the importance of our “Faculties” (Heart, Mind, & Conscience);
or to distinguish between the “heart”, the “mind” and the “conscience”; or they thought
that they all were the "same" - which they are NOT! (Psychiatrists and Psychologists make the same mistake today – thinking
that our physical brain = our heart, our mind, and our conscience – which it does NOT! [1Corinthians We
are now ready to examine the doctrine of John Calvin (Calvinism) in the light of the God’s Holy Scriptures {The King
James Bible}: Firstly
- I do not accept the premise that: “There are two mains camps of theology within Christianity in There
is a “THIRD CAMP” (that most Calvinists refuse to recognize), of which I am a member. I will not let anyone “classify”
me (or what I believe) in ONLY ONE of two possible camps, simply because they do not believe that a “Third Camp”
exists – or because they refuse to recognize it. And herein lays my first “problem” with Calvinism (or more
properly – with some Calvinists): When there is a disagreement amongst Christians (over doctrine or issues of importance),
the ability to “DEFINE” the issues cannot be controlled by only one of those parties! Let
us calmly (& respectfully) examine what has been said about Calvinism (and Arminianism) in the light of the Holy Scriptures
and try to see what God has to say about the matter. {Acts According to the Calvinists: “Calvinism is a system of biblical interpretation taught by John Calvin.”
and: “The system of Calvinism adheres to a very high view of scripture and seeks to derive its theological formulations
based solely on God’s word.” Whether
the claim that Calvinism honestly - “adheres to a very high view of scripture and seeks to derive its theological formulations
based solely on God’s word.” {All Denominations, Sects, and Cults basically make the same claims} is true or not,
is not as important as the fact that“a system of biblical interpretation” and “theological formulations”
are NOT Scripture – they are “interpretations” and “formulations” about Scripture, postulated
and put forth by a man, and therefore subject to error (regardless of a supposed “high view of Scripture . . . . based
solely on God’s word”). I do
not subscribe to “a system of biblical interpretation” or “theological formulations” derived by a
mere man (or men), simply because he may have been “brilliant” or “sincere”, and was able to “codify”
or “formulate” the Holy Scriptures into “a system of biblical interpretation” that may, or may not
be true, but “makes sense” or “rings true” to some Christians. I am
very wary of all “biblical systems of interpretation” – since there are so many “systems” of
“theological formulations” out in the world today that are false and contrary to “the Scripture of truth”
- Hence my “concern” with all so-called “Systematic Theologies”. {Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are
not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.} Calvinism:
“focuses on God’s sovereignty, stating that God is able and willing by virtue of his omniscience, omnipresence,
and omnipotence, to do whatever He desires with His creation.” {To which I believe that all genuine Bible believers
would agree with and subscribe to.} Calvinism:“also
maintains that within the Bible are the following teachings: That God, by His sovereign grace predestines people into salvation;
that Jesus died only for those predestined; that God regenerates the individual, where he is then able and wants to choose
God; and that it is impossible for those who are redeemed to lose their salvation.” {I will deal with each of these
points individually, as I proceed with my comments – except to say that, of the supposed “teachings” within
the Bible, I can only agree with the last statement - only as stated.} Calvinists
Claim: “Arminianism, on the other hand, maintains that God predestined, but not in an absolute sense. Rather, He looked
into the future to see who would pick him and then He chose them. Jesus died for all peoples' sins who have ever lived and
ever will live, not just the Christians. Each person is the one who decides if he wants to be saved or not. And finally, it
is possible to lose your salvation (some Armenians believe you cannot lose your salvation)”. If
the above representation of Arminianism is true, then there is a clear difference between what I believe and the doctrines
of both “Calvinism” and “Arminianism”: 1.
Unlike Arminianism (or as Calvinists purportedly report) - I did not “PICK” the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour!
I HEARD “the Gospel of Christ” (the same one preached by the Apostle Paul – [Romans Romans
Romans
10:8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That
if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead,
thou shalt be saved. 10
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11
For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. I did
not “PICK” Christ as my Saviour – I BELIEVED on Him and He saved me! 2.
Unlike Calvinism - I believe that The Lord Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death and shed blood are totally sufficient for
the sins of the whole world, but are only efficacious for those people who BELIEVE on Him! 1 Timothy
4:10For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially
of those that BELIEVE. 1 John
2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 Timothy
3.Unlike
the way Calvinist’s explain how I supposedly believe (I just “decide”) or the way Arminianism may actually
be - I just don’t DECIDE if I “want to be saved or not” – I must first BELIEVE the Gospel, before
God saves me [Ephesians 1:13]. John
13
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. {“nor of the will of
the flesh” - I don’t DECIDE anything! God determined before the world began that those who will BELIEVE on His
son shall be saved!} John
15
That whosoever BELIEVETH in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever BELIEVETH in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life. 17
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through himmight be saved. 18
He that BELIEVETH on him is not condemned: but he that BELIEVETH NOT is condemned already, because he hath NOT BELIEVED in
the name of the only begotten Son of God. Notice
- the “operative word” in all of the above testimony is “BELIEVE” (i.e. BELIEF). I believe that before
anyone can receive salvation, they must first “BELIEVE” THE Gospel of Christ and then (and only then) will God
save them. 4.
Unlike most Armenians - I DO NOT believe that once a person is saved (born again) that they can “lose” their salvation.
And Unlike most Calvinists -I believe GOD PRESERVES His saints – NOT in “the perseverance of the saints”. Psalms
31:23 O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Psalms
37:28 For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked
shall be cut off. Psalms
97:10 Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. Can
any honest person say that I am a Calvinist? Does anyone sincerely believe that I am an Armenian? I trow not! I am a Bible
believing Christian and refuse to join either “camp”. I guess you could say that I am “outside the camp”
(and in good company!)
And now on to T.U.L.I.P. {the famous acronym associated with Calvinistic beliefs}
This is my second teaching in regards to the Doctrine of Calvinism. What follows is my comments in regards to the "First
Tenant" of Calvinism - "TOTAL DEPRAVITY":
*T = “Total Depravity” (also known as Total Inability and Original Sin) The
very first thing to note is: The words “DEPRAVE”, “DEPRAVED”, or “DEPRAVITY” cannot be
found in the Holy Bible. This is always a “Red Flag” for me, since so much of False Doctrine (Psychiatry/Psychology
for example) is associated with “words” not found in the Bible. Calvinists
state: “Sin
has affected all parts of man. The heart, emotions, will, mind, and body are all affected by sin. We are completely sinful.
We are not as sinful as we could be, but we are completely affected by sin.” {Please
notice the failure to “rightly divide” man’s attributes:“Sin has affected all parts of man. The heart,
emotions, will, mind, and body are all affected by sin.” What happened to the conscience; the soul; and the spirit?
According to the Holy Bible the “emotions” and the “will” both fall under the purpose and function
of the heart – they are NOT separate “parts of man”!} Calvinists
state: “The
doctrine of Total Depravity is derived from scriptures that reveal human character: Man’s heart is evil (Mark The
use of the TERM:“The doctrine of Total Depravity” is NOT based on Scriptural words and is introducing a foreign
concept not found in the Scriptures. The “claim” that Jeremiah 17:9 says: “man’s heart is . . . .
SICK” is utterly false since the Holy Bible says NOTHING OF THE KIND! [Jeremiah 17:9The heart is deceitful above all
things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?] I have no idea where the Calvinists get the word “sick” from
- I just know that the word “sick” (as applied to the heart) is NOT in the Holy Bible. And
again - Exchanging the word “slave” for the King James Bible word “servant” in Romans 6:20 is clearly
another example of men trying to “prove” something by both ADDING to, and CHANGING the words of God. [Romans {Please
notice the SUBTIL CHANGE in connotation from the words: “DESPERATELY WICKED” to“SICK”. “Desperately
wicked” indicates an individual evil act of the “will”; “SICK” indicates an uncontrollable “disease”
(hello Freud!). A “SERVANT” indicates someone who “willingly” serves; a “SLAVE” indicates
someone who is unwillingly serving against their will. Did you notice – that both CHANGES to the Holy words of God are
thinly disguised to bolster the Calvinist position and subtlety strengthened the argument in favor of Calvin’s doctrine
of “TOTAL DEPRAVITY”? I believe
a more Scriptural description of man’s state would be to say: That all men are born with Adam’s sinful nature.
[1Corinthians According
to the Bible - the state of all men and women born into this world is best described as being “SINFUL” –
NOT “Totally Depraved”. All men and women are “Sinners” – NOT “TotallyDepraved”.
The Scriptures describe all men and women {without God} as “the NATURAL man” – NOT the “Totally Depraved”
man [1Corinthians And
herein is the first major difference between most Calvinists and myself. In their concern for men having absolutely NOTHING
to do with EARNING their salvation, the Calvinist (through the doctrine of “TOTAL DEPRAVITY”) make it impossible
for a man (or woman) to even BELIEVE – unless they are “regenerated” FIRST! Now,
I believe that there is NOTHING we can DO to EARN God’s Salvation; but there is SOMETHING that we MUST DO to RECEIVE
God’s Salvation – WE MUST FIRST BELIEVE! THE
QUESTION IS: . . .Sirs, WHAT MUST I DO to be saved? THE BIBLICAL ANSWER: And they said, BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ,
and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. [Acts
16:30-31] There
is a huge difference between sinful men (and women) being unable (in the flesh) to DO anything to EARN their Salvation, and
men and women first “BELIEVING” the Gospel (with their heart) in order to RECEIVE God’s Free Gift of Eternal
Salvation! Now
the Calvinists (in their concern for man having NOTHING to do with his Salvation) cannot accept that we BELIEVE before we
are “regenerated” (for, according to Calvinism, that would be a WORK on the part of man, and since Salvation is:“Not
by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and
renewing of the Holy Ghost;” [Titus 3:5] then (according to the Calvinists) we must be “regenerated” before
we can believe – since BELIEVING (according to Calvinists) is a WORK. But BELIEF is solely an operation and function
of the HEART – NOT the flesh! “WORKS of righteousness” are done in the FLESH. The heart is our “faculty”
where our will resides; the flesh is our “substance” that produces WORKS! As
I said before - the problem is: that for all of these years (since the time of Calvin) – most of the “scribes”
& “scholars” have failed to clearly DEFINE the “ATTRIBUTES” of man {according to the Holy Scriptures},
and in failing to do sothey have confused (i.e. mixed up) “works” that are done in the “flesh”, and
BELIEF {an operation solely performed by the heart}. And not only that, in failing to discern between our SUBSTANCE (body,
soul, & spirit), and our FACULTIES (heart, mind, & conscience) they have ended up attributing “works”
to an attribute of man (the heart) that has absolutely nothing to do with the actual performance or execution of “works”. Remember
- The Biblical definition of the Heart: {Our Motivator} The
heart is that faculty within a man or woman which is the center or seat of our thoughts, meditations, considerations, perceptions,
concepts, reasoning, understanding, beliefs, fears, imaginations, doubts, counsels, intents, desires (affections - emotions),
and pride. The heart is where the will resides and operates. Do
you see anything resembling “works” in the Scriptural definition of the heart listed above (listed earlier –
with scripture references)? The heart “motivates” us to do good or evil, but (I repeat) “works” are
an operation of the “flesh” – NOT our heart! WE BELIEVE GOD ONLY WITH OUR HEART Mark
11:23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea;
and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever
he saith. Luke
John
14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. Acts
Romans
10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from
the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans
[Genesis
45:26 And told him, saying, Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the Mark
Luke
24:25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:] The
Bible record is clear: We believe God with our heart. I cannot find a single verse in the Bible where we believe God with
our soul, our spirit, our mind, our conscience, or our body! I cannot find a commandment or requirement in the Holy Bible
for us to believe God with our soul, our spirit, our mind, our conscience, or our body! As a matter of fact, the Bible clearly
indicates that man believes only with his heart! Out
of the approximately 876 verses in the Bible with the word heart or hearts in them – only one verse connects the heart
with “work”: Isaiah 32:6 For the vile person will speak villany, and his heart will work iniquity, to practise
hypocrisy, and to utter error against the LORD, to make empty the soul of the hungry, and he will cause the drink of the thirsty
to fail. And you will notice - that the “work” described therein are all the “works of the flesh”
–“practise hypocrisy”, “utter error against the LORD”, “to make empty the soul of the
hungry”, “to cause the drink of the thirsty to fail.” Work
(“works”) are always connected with the “flesh” – Belief (believing) is always connected with
the “heart”. BELIEVING IS NOT A “WORK” (OR “WORKS”)! BELIEVING is an act of our will,
which falls under the purpose and function of our heart – NOT our “flesh”! Notice
the difference: Galatians
2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed
in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the
law shall no flesh be justified. Galatians
5:19Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time
past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the The
Scriptures are clear: “WORKS” are clearly connected with the “flesh”. The “WORKS of the flesh”
are the result of a blind and deceived heart; a blind, corrupt, and carnal mind; and a conscience that has been defiled and
seared. Just like there is a distinction between “works” and “fruit” [Galatians In
the following verses we have a perfect example of the difference between the operation of the heart and the "works of the
flesh”. This difference can be clearly seen in David’s heart desire to build a 1 Chronicles
28:2 Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: As for me, I had in mine heart
to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for
the building: 3 But
God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood. 2 Chronicles
6:7 Now it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of 8 But
the LORD said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that
it was in thine heart: 1 Kings
18
And the LORD said unto David my father, Whereas it was in thine heart to build an house unto my name, thou didst well that
it was in thine heart. Please
Notice that: Although “it was in the heart of David to build an house for the Lord God of The
thoughts and intents of the heart are not equal to “the works of the flesh”, although “works” proceed
from out of the heart. [Matthew 15:19-20; Mark When
we study the Holy Scriptures we are presented with an apparent dilemma; How to “rightly divide” between the Bible’s
record of the obvious “sinfulness” of all men (and women) on the one hand, and the testimony that there were some
men (& women) that were declared “good”, “perfect”, “upright”, “righteous”,
etc. The Calvinist doctrine of “TOTAL DEPRAVITY” overlooks this clear Bible testimony of men, who were obviously
“Sinners”, and yet were also declared to be “good”, “perfect”, “upright”,
“righteous”, etc. {NOT – “TOTALLY DEPRAVED”!} The
“problem” faced by all students of the Bible is: how does one “rightly divide” between all of the
verses testifying to the utter sinfulness of all mankind on the one hand – such as: Jeremiah
17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Ecclesiastes
9:3 This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun, that there is one event unto all: yea, also the heart of
the sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart while they live, and after that they go to the dead. Isaiah
64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and
our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. 7 And
there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee: for thou hast hid thy face from us,
and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities. Psalms
14:2 The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. 3 They
are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Psalms
53:3 Every one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Romans
3:12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Romans
And
the clear testimony that there have been some men & women, who, even though they were not “sinless”, were
declared to be - “good”, “perfect”, “upright”, “righteous”, etc. Therein lays
the apparent “dilemma” or “problem” for those who study the Bible – How do we “square”
the two opposing testimonies? For example – The Bible testimony about “a good man”: [2Samuel 18:27; Psalms
37:23; 112:5; Proverbs 12:2; 13:22; 14:14; Micah 7:2; - Matthew 12:35; Luke 6:45; 23:50; John 7:12; Acts 11:24; Romans 5:7] Calvin’s
solution was to declare all men and women to be “TOTALLY DEPRAVED” – unable (on their own) to be “good”,
“perfect”, “upright”, “righteous”, etc., without the supernatural intervention of God
actually “changing” them first - “regenerating” Old Testament saints before “The Atonement”,
and turning them into automated “robots”, so that they can do good works, etc. Calvin failed to differentiate
(“rightly divide”) between the body (“flesh”) and the heart. I believe
that the testimony of the Holy Scriptures presents a very different picture of man’s state than that presented by John
Calvin: Hebrews
11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous,
God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: Why is it that Abel willingly offered – “a more excellent sacrifice than
Cain”? How is it that because of Abel’s obedience (willingly offering “the more excellent sacrifice”)
he obtained witness that he was righteous” - If men are “Totally Depraved”? Abel
“believed” God and “acted” (in obedience) on his belief by willingly (there’s the “heart”!)
bringing the “right” sacrifice”. [1John Genesis
4:26And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enos: then began men to call upon the name of the
LORD. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: What are they doing - “calling upon the name of the Lord”? Men
do not “call upon the name of the Lord”, unless they first “believe” in Him. Genesis
23
And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: 24
And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. Hebrews
11:5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before
his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: What is God doing – “walking with” Enoch? If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How in the world could Enoch possibly have - “pleased God”? Enoch could
not have possibly “walked with God” without first “believing” in Him. Genesis
6:5 And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart
was only evil continually. 6 And
it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. 7 And
the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing,
and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. 8 But
Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. 9 These
are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it that the Scriptures testify that - “Noah was a just man and perfect
in his generations? How can someone be “Totally Depraved” and “just” & “perfect” at
the same time? Hmmm? If
men are “Totally Depraved”: What was God doing – “walking with” Noah? Noah
“believed” God about the impending world wide Flood and acted on that belief by building the Job
1:1 There was a man in the If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it that the Bible commends Job and claims that Job – was “perfect”,
“upright”, “feared God” and “eschewed evil”? How does a “Totally Depraved”
man act that way? Job
“believed” in God and he honored God with his lips (his testimony) and sacrificed to God in accordance to God’s
requirements. Job
1:8 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect
and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? Job
2:3 And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect
and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst
me against him, to destroy him without cause. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it that the Lord God commends Job (twice) and states that Job – was “perfect”,
“upright”, “feared God” and “eschewed evil”? How does a “Totally Depraved”
man act this way? Genesis
If
men are “Totally Depraved”: Who then are “the righteous”? How can anyone be considered “righteous”
and “Totally Depraved” at the same time? The
“righteous” are those men (and women) who “believed” God (like Abraham
“believed” God and left his homeland (in obedience to God’s command) based on his belief. And when Abraham
was ordered to sacrifice his only son, he “believed” that God was able to resurrect him. Romans
4:1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? 2 For
if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. 3 For
what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. 4 Now
to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But
to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6 Even
as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, 7 Saying,
Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed
is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh
this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham
for righteousness. 10
How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11
And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that
he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto
them also: Galatians
3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. James
If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it that Abraham was called – “the friend of God”? Does a
Holy and Righteous God make “friends” with “Totally Depraved” men (or women)? I trow not! Abraham
was called “the friend of God” based on his “belief” in God and God’s promises. John
13
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. 14
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. 15
Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all
things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it that the Lord Jesus Christ called His disciples “friends”. How
can the perfect, sinless, Holy Son of God call “Totally Depraved” (unregenerate) men –“friends”? Acts
13:22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said,
I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it Possible that David – “was a man after mine (God’s) own
heart”? David
“was a man after mine (God’s) own heart” because he “believed” in God and in His Holy word,
and trusted in God to keep His Promises concerning the Kingdom. It was David’s “belief” (with his heart)
that God recognized and honored – certainly NOT some of his “works”! 1 Kings
3:6 And Solomon said, Thou hast shewed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before thee in
truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou
hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How could all of these things that are said about David be true? David
“walked before thee {God} in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart” because of his “belief”
in God and in His Holy word. 1 Kings
9:4 And if thou wilt walk before me, as David thy father walked, in integrity of heart, and in uprightness, to do according
to all that I have commanded thee, and wilt keep my statutes and my judgments: 1 Kings
11:4 For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not
perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father. 1 Kings
14:7 Go, tell Jeroboam, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Forasmuch as I exalted thee from among the people, and made thee
prince over my people Israel, 8 And
rent the kingdom away from the house of David, and gave it thee: and yet thou hast not been as my servant David, who kept
my commandments, and who followed me with all his heart, to do that only which was right in mine eyes; 1 Kings
15:1 Now in the eighteenth year of king Jeroboam the son of Nebat reigned Abijam over 2 Three
years reigned he in 3 And
he walked in all the sins of his father, which he had done before him: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God,
as the heart of David his father. 4 Nevertheless
for David's sake did the LORD his God give him a lamp in 5 Because
David did that which was right in the eyes of the LORD, and turned not aside from any thing that he commanded him all the
days of his life, save only in the matter of Uriah the Hittite. If
men are “Totally Depraved”: How is it that it was said of David that he –”walked in integrity of heart
and in uprightness”; –or that “his heart was PERFECT with the Lord”; – or that “David
did that which was right in the eyes of the Lord”? How could God say that about David if men are “Totally Depraved”? In
all of these “examples” (and there are many, many more) we see certain principles and precepts that are in play
throughout: God’s GRACE (always first and foremost), without which, no one could be saved; man’s “BELIEF”
in God and in His Holy words; man’s “Trust” and “FAITH” in God and in His Holy words; and God
honoring that “BELIEF” (first), then along with man’s “Trust” & “Faith”, by
blessing the man whose heart truly and sincerely “BELIEVED”. When
a person BELIEVES the Gospel (in his heart), there is absolutely NO connection to “works” in any way - because
the purpose, function, and operation of the heart is not the same as the purpose, function, and operation of the flesh. I
repeat: “BELIEVING” is the sole operation of the heart. “Works”, on the other hand, are an operation
of the flesh and have nothing to DO with “BELIEVING” the Gospel of Christ, nor can they have anything to DO with
our salvation. In
this age (under the “New Covenant”) God is engaged in a “WORK”: John
29
Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. The
“WORK” of God (in this age) is to convince people (through His word) to “BELIEVE” the Gospel. The
purpose of the Gospel is to bring people to the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation. IF God “gives” us our “BELIEF”,
WHY does He have to WORK at it? If our “BELIEF” is a “gift” from God - where then is there any “WORK”
on God’s part? According to the Scriptures, God is now working at getting people to “believe on him whom he hath
sent.” [Acts 2 Peter
1:1 Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through
the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: We
obtained like precious "faith" (God's precious "gift" to us) by "believing" in our hearts, “after” we heard the
Gospel of the Grace of God. Ephesians
Please
notice the “Chronological Order” that leads up to our Salvation: We TRUSTED, AFTER we HEARD the word of TRUTH
(The Gospel). We were “sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise”, AFTER WE BELIEVED– NOT “BEFORE”!
[Ephesians 1:13]: Although
faith is a “gift” from God (based on the Lord Jesus Christ’s finished WORK on Calvary), our “belief”
in the Gospel of Jesus Christ is NOT a “gift” from God, but is instead an operation and function of our heart
– God does NOT “BELIEVE” for us, or “FORCE” us to “believe” in Him! From
the very beginning of the creation of Adam, and up to the present time, God has wanted people to "believe" Him and obey Him.
There have been different Dispensations; and God has required different things of people under the different "Covenants";
but the one constant thread running throughout all of the ages (Dispensations), and under all of the "Covenants" is God's
consistent requirement that we "Believe" Him (His Holy words). He does not FORCE us, or MAKE us "believe" Him, but He "REQUIRES"
it! God
has required of everyone under every Covenant and in every "age" that they "BELIEVE" His words {Oral or Written} and OBEY
them. We are very fortunate that under the "New Covenant” - All we have to DO to get saved is to "believe on the Lord
Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, . . . ." {When WE "BELIEVE" in Christ's death, burial, and resurrection and "RECEIVE"
Him as our personal Saviour, we have done (obeyed) all that God has required of us (under the "New" Covenant) to get saved.}
God never said that we are too “DEPRAVED” to believe Him – He has said that there is nothing we can DO (“WORKS”)
to save ourselves {Romans Hebrews
11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God mustbelieve that he is, and that he is a
rewarder of them that diligently seek him. I could
go on and on with this discourse (and I probably will expand on this in my finished study), but I believe I have made my point
- there is a clear difference between the Calvinist Doctrine of "TOTAL DEPRAVITY" and the testimony of the Holy Scriptures.
And I have four (4) more points to go in T.U.L.I.P. {another day!}
T.U.L.I.P.
{the famous acronym associated with Calvinistic beliefs} U = “Unconditional Election” {The
word “election” is Scriptural - The Phrase “Unconditional Election” cannot be found in the Bible!
As a matter of fact – the words “conditional” and/or “unconditional” do not appear one time
in Scripture!} Calvinists
state: “God
does not base His election on anything He sees in the individual. He chooses the elect according to the kind intention of
His will (Eph. 1:4-8; Rom. I do
not agree with the statement: “God does not base His election on anything He sees in the individual.” If the statement
is in reference to “works”, I will agree, but if it is in reference to “BELIEF”, then I CANNOT agree.
“ANYTHING” would include “BELIEF” – can you see the confusion (again) of thinking that “BELIEF”
(an operation of the heart) is a “WORK” (an operation of the flesh)? No
one can argue with:“He chooses the elect according to the kind intention of His will (Eph. 1:4-8; Rom. IF
“MERIT” equals “WORKS”, then we can agree with the statement, without any reservations, for all true
Bible believers know that God has not chosen the “elect” because of their “WORKS” – that would
nullify BELIEF & FAITH & SALVATION by GRACE! But, if “MERIT” includes “BELIEF”, that would
nullify the separate purposes of the heart and the flesh, making them both THE SAME–which they are NOT; which would
ultimately make “BELIEF” a “WORK”–which it is NOT! {Can you see how TOTAL DEPRAVITY is the “Lynchpin”
upon which “Calvinism” relies?} Let’s
examine the verses cited [Ephesians 1:4-8] in context and “rightly divide” God’s words: Ephesians
1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at 2 Grace
be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed
be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According
as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having
predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To
the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In
whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein
he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having
made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10
That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven,
and which are on earth; even in him: 11
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after
the counsel of his own will: 12
That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed,
ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. NOTHING
in Ephesians 1:4-8 tells us THE BASIS for God “choosing” us (the elect). It is clear, however, that God has “chosen
us in Him - before the foundation of the world” to be “holy and without blame before him in love:” –
are ALL Christians “holy and without blame before him in love”? Christians can believe in God “choosing”,
and in "calling", "election", "predestination", "justification", and "eternal salvation", "preservation" (NOT "perseverance")
without being a Calvinist. We also can believe in "whosoever will" without being an Armenian! It's NOT an "either/or" proposition,
no matter how hard some (in either "camp") try to force us into one or the other. The
chronological order is: [Ephesians 1:13]In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your
salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, God did not look down from
Heaven before the foundation of the world and go – Eenee Meenee Miny Moe; nor did He willy nilly just “choose”
without “FOREKNOWLEDGE”; and here is where “the rubber meets the road” - WHAT WAS THAT FOREKNOWLEDGE
BASED ON? 1 Peter
1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling
of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. The
Scriptures clearly state that the “Elect” are according to the “foreknowledge” of God the Father –
But the BASIS of “foreknowledge” is not clearly defined in the above verse. Acts
In
the above verse - “Foreknowledge” is clearly defined as God “knowing”, ahead of time, about events
that were going to take place in the future. Romans
In
the above verse those: “whom he did “foreknow” are “predestined to be conformed to the image of his
son”. Are all Christians “conformed” to the “image” of Christ today? Has there ever been a time
in church history when they were? This verse is not talking about our “Salvation”; it’s talking about how
“whom he did “foreknow” (all those who have been saved - born again) will someday be just like Jesus Christ.
[1Corinthians Romans
11:2 God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession
to God against In
the above verse: those He “foreknew” are clearly Jews (Hebrews) – NOT Christians! How someone can build
a “Major Doctrine” upon so few verses is beyond me. SOME MORE EXAMPLES OF “FOREKNOWLEDGE” John
24
But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, 25
And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man. John
11
For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. John
John
6:60 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? 61
When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? 62
What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? 63
It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they
are life. 64
But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that BELIEVED NOT, and who should
betray him. 65
And he said, THEREFORE said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. {See: John
Please notice that the three foregoing examples of “foreknowledge” clearly
demonstrate that: #1.
The Lord Jesus Christ refused to “commit Himself unto them” – BECAUSE HE “FOREKNEW” AHEAD OF
TIME what the people would do. {That is - He based His actions in response to His “foreknowledge” of the people’s
intent.} #2.
The Lord Jesus Christ MAKES A SPECIFIC STATEMENT – Based on the fact that HE “FOREKNEW” AHEAD OF TIME “who
should betray Him”. {That is – He specifically said something in response to His “foreknowledge” of
future events.} #3.
The Lord Jesus Christ specifically MAKES A STATEMENT – In response to the fact that He FORE -“knew from the beginning
who they were that BELIEVED NOT!!! Did you get that? The Lord Jesus Christ makes a particular statement - BECAUSE He knew
AHEAD OF TIME, "from the beginning", (BASED ON HIS “FOREKNOWLEDGE”) “WHO they were that BELIEVED NOT, and
WHO should betray Him”. Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, based his actions and response on WHAT someone BELIEVED
or did NOT BELIEVE! And
now let us examine the other verse cited [Romans Romans
9:1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, 2 That
I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For
I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: 4 Who
are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service
of God, and the promises; 5 Whose
are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. 6 Not
as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all 7 Neither,
because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 8 That
is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted
for the seed. 9 For
this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son. 10
And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11
(For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election
might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth 12
It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13
As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14
What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15
For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16
So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. 17
For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee,
and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. 18
Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth. 19
Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? 20
Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made
me thus? 21
Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour? 22
What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath
fitted to destruction: 23
And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, 24
Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? 25
As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. 26
And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called
the children of the living God. 27
Esaias also crieth concerning 28
For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. 29
And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. 30
What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the
righteousness which is of faith. 31
But 32
Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; 33
As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be
ashamed. After
examining the Scripture (in context) cited by the Calvinists in support of their doctrine, can any one say that Romans Calvinists
state: “Nor
does God look into the future to see who would pick Him. Also, as some are elected into salvation, others are not (Rom. Romans
Romans
WHAT
do the two verses cited have to do with being “elected into salvation”? We are “elected” according
to the “foreknowledge” of God. That “foreknowledge” is based on SOMETHING and we know that it is NOT
on our WORKS (i.e. something we have done in the flesh). Then WHAT is God’s “foreknowledge” BASED ON? That
is the $64,000,000 question! Let’s
examine a few verses of Scripture and compare the Holy words of God with the doctrines of Calvinism – shall we? 2 Thessalonians
2:1 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That
ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of
Christ is at hand. 3 Let
no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin
be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who
opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the 5 Remember
ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6 And
now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7 For
the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8 And
then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness
of his coming: 9 Even
him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10
And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that
they might be saved. 11
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 12
That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 13
But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen
you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: 14
Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians
WHY
didn’t God say: “because they received not the ELECTION, that they might be saved.” WHY
all the concern about people having “the love of the truth” – IF they are already “unconditionally
elected into salvation”? What difference would it make, whether they loved “the truth”, or NOT - IF they
are already “unconditionally elected into salvation”? 2 Thessalonians
WHY
is God sending them “strong delusion”, so that “they should BELIEVE a lie” – IF “some
are elected into salvation, (and) others are not”; WHY bother with sending people “strong delusion, that they
should believe a lie” – IF “some are elected into salvation, (and) others are not”? What is the point?
WHY the emphasis on “belief” instead of election, unless “belief” or “unbelief” (NOT “election”
ALONE) is the ultimate deciding factor in determining whether we are saved or lost? 2 Thessalonians
WHY
the concern about people either believing the truth or NOT believing the truth – IF “some are elected into salvation,
others are not”? If Calvinism is true - shouldn’t the verse read: “That they all might be damned who are
not elected into salvation”? WHY does Almighty God keep emphasizing “BELIEF” – and Calvinism keeps
emphasizing “Total Depravity” or “Unconditional Election”? 2 Thessalonians
2:13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning
chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: WHY
do the Scriptures stress “belief of the truth:” when talking about God choosing us “to salvation”
– rather than “ELECTION”? IF “some are elected into salvation, (and) others are not” is true
- WHERE does “belief of the truth:” fit in? Over and over, again and again, God keeps emphasizing “BELIEF”,
“BELIEVE”, “BELIEVED”, or “BELIEVING”; WHAT is the point – IF “some are elected
into salvation, others are not”? Isn’t it obvious by now – that Calvinism is a “DEAD END”? IF
“some are elected into salvation, others are not” – since it’s all predetermined any way - WHY BOTHER?
Some people “are elected into salvation” and other people “are not”! That is, according to Calvinism,
“some (us “lucky” ones) are elected into salvation, others (you “unlucky” ones) are not”
{or in other words - some have been “ELECTED” to DAMNATION!} But
what about “Whosoever Will” (or “whosoever will NOT”) that God has stated in His Holy word {and promised}?
Is God a man, that He should lie? Numbers
Does
our God make an offer to men (and women) and not mean it? Is Almighty God disingenuous when He says WHOSOEVER WILL? Does “WHOSOEVER
WILL” only mean those who “are elected into salvation”? Or is it a General Call to all of mankind? Calvinism
has some “major problems” with God’s Holy word, and I for one refuse to follow a man who lived 450 years
ago, who although he might have been extremely intelligent, certainly didn’t have all of the answers to God’s
Holy word. No man has ever “figured out” all of God’s word. And to think that some man who lived over 400
years ago had all of the answers is absurd! Calvin didn’t even have all of the QUESTIONS – never mind all of the
answers! {This is WHY I am “leery” of ALL“systems of biblical interpretation” and “theological
formulations”} 2 Thessalonians
WHY
is a person’s “calling” determined by Paul’s “Gospel” - IF “some are elected into
salvation, others are not”? WHAT does “believing” the “gospel” have to do with “the obtaining
of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” - IF “some are elected into salvation, (and) others are not”? 1 Thessalonians
2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye
received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. WHY
don’t the Scriptures state: “the word of God, which effectually worketh in those that are unconditionally elected”,
instead of those that “believe”? IF “Unconditional Election” is God’s sole “modus operandi”
– WHY the emphasis on “belief”? Unconditional
Election (as “Total Depravity” did before) ignores the testimony of the Scriptures about “BELIEF”,
“BELIEVE”, “BELIEVED”, or “BELIEVING”. 1 John
WHY
DOES God command us to BELIEVE, IF “some are elected into salvation, others are not” -unless our salvation is
“conditioned” on our Believing first, WHY the emphasis on “believing” when we are already “unconditionally
elected”? WHY the COMMANDMENT to BELIEVE? John
WHY
IS God WORKING at getting people to BELIEVE on Him, IF “some are elected into salvation, (and) others are not”?
WHY “WORK” at all to get them to BELIEVE? John
WHY
PRAY for someone to BELIEVE, IF they are already “Unconditionally elected into salvation, (and) others are not”?
WHY the concern about someone believing on the Lord “through their word”– IF they are already “unconditionally
elected into salvation, (and) others are not”! Romans
4:24But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; {&
Philippians WHY
is IMPUTATION dependent on our BELIEVING on Him that raised up Jesus our Lord” – IF we are already “unconditionally
elected into salvation, (and) others are not”? Wouldn’t it (imputation) be based on our “unconditional election”? Philippians
1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; WHY
isn’t there any mention of “Election” in the verse – for example according to Calvinism the verse
should have said: For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to“be unconditionally elected into salvation”?
Once again WHY does God continually emphasize “BELIEF”? 1 Timothy
HOW
is Paul “a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting”? Is Paul’s Conversion
a “PATTERN” of “unconditional election”? Paul’s Conversion is a “PATTERN” {example}
of God’s Grace to an unbeliever [“Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious” . . . who
“obtained mercy, because” (he) “did it ignorantly in unbelief.” 1Timothy We
could go through literally dozens of more verses from the Scriptures and demonstrate from investigation, questions, analysis,
dissection, rightly dividing, and sound Biblical reasoning that the doctrine of "Unconditional Election" is contrary to sound
Biblical doctrine. Notice
how Calvinism ADDS to the word of God? “TOTAL DEPRAVITY” <> neither word can be found in the HOLY BIBLE!
“UNCONDITIONAL ELECTION” <> the word “Unconditional” is NOT in the Holy Bible! Does this mean
anything to you? Does the fact that John Calvin (1509 – 1564) lived BEFORE The King James Bible was translated, have
any bearing on his “doctrine”? WHAT was his “FINAL AUTHORITY”? WHERE did he get his “DOCTRINE”
from? WHY
would a genuine King James Bible believer trust a man or his “DOCTRINE”, if he never had God’s FINAL AUTHORITY
{i.e. AV1611 – King James Bible} in his hands - not even one time; but who, instead, used “eclectic” Hebrew
(Old Testament) and Latin Texts (Old & New Testaments); and in addition, possibly a French “text” or some
Greek or other language text for the New Testament) in which he formulated ALL of his so-called“systems of biblical
interpretation” and “theological formulations”? The
following is a list of specific words found in the Scriptures (that are related to Calvinism) and all of the corresponding
verses where they can be found. I have listed the words – “elect”, “election”, “elected”,
“foreknew”, “foreknowledge”, “foreordained”, etc. and have tried to “rightly divide”
WHERE and to WHOM they should be applied. If anyone is interested in searching out these Scriptures, the color code easily
identifies to WHOM I believe the verses should be applied. I would encourage you to “search the Scriptures” to
see whether those things that I have presented here are true or not: “ELECT” GOD Isaiah
42:1; 1Timothy Isaiah
45:4; Isaiah 65:9; Isaiah 65:22; Matthew 24:22; Matthew 24; Matthew 24:31; Mark 13:20; Mark 13:22; Mark 13:27; Luke 18:7 THE
CHURCH {Born Again – Saved} Romans
8:33; Colossians 3:12; 2 Timothy 2:10; Titus 1:1; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 John 1:1; 2 John 1:13 According
to the Scriptures, "the elect" can be: THE LORD; or “ELECTION” Romans
9; Romans 11:5; Romans 11:7; Romans 11:28 THE
CHURCH {Born Again – Saved} 1 Thessalonians
1:4; 2 Peter 1:10 “ELECTED” THE
CHURCH {Born Again – Saved} 1 Peter
5:13 “FOREKNEW” Romans
11:2 “FOREKNOWLEDGE” GOD Acts
THE
CHURCH {Born Again – Saved} 1 Peter
1:2 “FOREORDAINED” GOD 1 Peter
1:20 “ORDAIN” 1 Chronicles
9:22; 1 Chronicles 17:9; Isaiah 26 THE
CHURCH {Born Again – Saved} 1 Corinthians
7:17; Titus 1:5 “ORDAINED” GOD Psalms
8:2; Psalms 8:3; Psalms 132:17; Acts 10:42; Acts 17:31; Romans 13:1; 1 Corinthians 2:7 Numbers
28:6; 2 Kings 23:5; 2 Chronicles 23:18; 2 Chronicles 29:27; Esther 9:27; Psalms 81:5; Isaiah 30:33; Jeremiah 1:5; Daniel 2:24;
Habakkuk 1:12; Mark 3:14; John 15:16; Acts 1:22; Romans 7:10; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 5:1; Hebrews 8:3; Hebrews 9:6 THE
CHURCH {Born Again – Saved} Acts
EVIL 1 Kings
I am
finished (for now) with the so-called doctrine of “Unconditional Election”. This study could easily be much longer
if I had the time (and the space) to present all of the verses pertaining to "whosoever will" and/or more examples from the
Old Testament. What I have presented should suffice, for I still have 3 “Points” to go We
are now ready to examine the third main tenet of Calvinism in the light of God’s Holy word:
L =“Limited Atonement”(also known as Particular Atonement) Calvinists
state: “Jesus
died only for the elect. Though Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient for all, it was not efficacious for all. Jesus only
bore the sins of the elect. Support for this position is drawn from such scriptures as Matt. 26:28 where Jesus died for ‘many';
John 10:11, 15 which say that Jesus died for the sheep (not the goats, per Matt. 25:32-33); John 17:9 where Jesus in prayer
interceded for the ones given Him, not those of the entire world; Acts 20:28 and Eph. 5:25-27 which state that the Church
was purchased by Christ, not all people; and Isaiah 53:12 which is a prophecy of Jesus’ crucifixion where he would bore
the sins of many (not all).” The
fact that the word “LIMITED” only shows up once in the Scriptures, and the only use of the word in that one single
verse being peculiarly anti-Calvinistic [Psalms 78:41 Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and LIMITED the Holy One of Israel.]
should have given John Calvin (or some of his followers) at least pause in using it to describe the “Atonement”. Before
I begin my comments on the third “pillar” (premise) of Calvinistic doctrine - “Limited Atonement”
(and as brother Forrest has said: “which I personally think is the most heretical doctrine in the wilting T.U.L.I.P
arrangement.”), I believe it is necessary to determine, as best we can, what the “Atonement” is all about. Words
are strange and peculiar things. Our Lord and Saviour is described as “The Word”. John
1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Why
would God choose to describe The Son as “The Word”, unless He was trying to convey to us that there is a constant,
persistent, enduring, indissoluble, permanent, perpetual, everlasting, and eternal connection between “The WORD”
and God’s “words”? God’s
words (spoken or written) are powerful: Hebrews
11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made
of things which do appear. Hebrews
1:1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath
in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who
being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power,
when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; John
6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and
they are life. John
6:68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. The
Scriptures state that the Lord Jesus Christ spoke all of creation into existence, and that all of creation is upheld “by
the word of His power”. They also state that the words that Christ spoke are “life”. Peter said that “thou
(the Lord Jesus Christ) hast the words of eternal life! Like
I said at the beginning, words are strange and peculiar things. God has used words (spoken & written) to convey His thoughts
and His ways to mankind from the very beginning of the creation of Adam up to the present day; and men and women have used
words ever since to express their thoughts, feelings, beliefs, ideas, etc. So
the question arises – WHAT are words? {Check the Dictionary for the exhaustive definition} I believe that words not
only express most of those things that are said about them in the Dictionaries; but more than that – words (spoken or
written) paint a verbal “picture” of our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, ideas, etc.; and not only ours, but God
has used His words to “illustrate” for mankind His thoughts and His ways. By
now you are probably saying – What’s the point? The point is that God has been “illustrating” to mankind
(through His actions and His words) the absolutely devastating and destructive effect SIN has had on mankind from the moment
that Adam fell up to today; and the “Terrible Price” that God requires to “Atone” for SIN (Sins).
- “THE ATONEMENT”! From
the first sacrifice – the shedding of blood and the death of an innocent animal in the Garden of Eden to “cover”
Adam & Eve’s sin; to Abel’s “more excellent” sacrifice; to Noah’s offering (of every clean
beast & every clean fowl); to Job’s burnt offerings for his children “according to the number of them all”;
to Abraham’s “offering” of his ONLY son; to Moses and Aaron and the establishment of the Law and all the
“ordinances of divine service” (which included the daily sacrifices for the individual sins of the people of Israel,
and the once a year perfect, clean, unblemished male animal sacrifice for the nation of Israel); God was “illustrating”
(or painting a picture) that SIN = DEATH; that God required the BLOOD of an innocent, unblemished MALE SACRIFICE to “cover”
(not Atone for) people’s sins. Over
and over again, as those innocent animals died and shed their blood, God was “illustrating” to all of mankind
and to Now
the question arises, when the high priest went once a year into “the Holy of Holies” to offer the blood of the
sacrifice for his sins and the sins of the people of And
now we come to John the Baptist, what did he have to say about the Lord Jesus Christ? John
John
Now
we know: “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.” [Hebrews 10:4] So
from the time of Adam’s fall up until the time of Christ’s sacrifice, all of the shedding of the blood of all
of those innocent animals did was “cover” the sins of those who sacrificed or those for whom the sacrifice was
made. In the case of And
so the ATONEMENT for sin was accomplished by the Lord Jesus Christ. He fulfilled all of the Scriptural requirements. He is
the ONLY ONE that fit the “picture” that God had “illustrated” (by His initial “example”
in the Garden and by His word) for mankind for four centuries. He paid the “terrible price” that God required,
and which no one else could. “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and NOT for ours ONLY, but ALSO for the sins
of the WHOLE WORLD.” [1 John 2:2] The Holy Scriptures unequivocally state that that terrible sacrifice was made “for
the sins of the WHOLE WORLD” – NOT just for the “elect”. But in order for that sacrifice (for “the
Whole World) to be effective in the life of each individual, they must DO something: They must “BELIEVE on the Lord
Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved”. So
far, every time we come around to examining the various Calvinistic doctrines we come face to face with “BELIEF”,
“BELIEVE”, “BELIEVED”, OR “BELIEVING”. And although I am repeating myself for the umpteenth
time – the problem with Calvinism is that by not rightly dividing the word of God, concerning man’s attributes,
Calvin (and all who have followed him) have confused “WORKS”, which are a function and operation of the flesh,
with “BELIEF”, which is a function and operation of the heart. And in doing so, they have ended up with a doctrine
which, at every turn, CHANGES the Holy word of God and makes it say something other than what it truly says. Calvinists
state: “Jesus
died only for the elect. Though Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient for all, it was not efficacious for all. Jesus only
bore the sins of the elect. I believe
it behooves us to examine what the Bible has to say about WHO the Lord Jesus Christ died and shed His for, and see if God’s
words are in agreement with Calvinism: THE WORLD John
John
3:17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. John
4:39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all
that ever I did. 40
So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days. 41
And many more believed because of his own word; 42
And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is
indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world. John
John
John
45
And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me. 46
I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. 47
And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. 1 John
2 Corinthians
5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath
committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 1 John
2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father,
Jesus Christ the righteous: 2 And
he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. The
preceding Bible verses are the strongest verses in opposition to the Calvinist doctrine of “Limited Atonement”
that I could find. Can ANYONE honestly say (or even claim) that the testimony of the Scriptures agrees with the doctrine of
“Limited Atonement”? According to Calvinism: “Jesus died only for the elect. Though Jesus’ sacrifice
was sufficient for all, it was not efficacious for all. Jesus only bore the sins of the elect.”With all of the clear
and unmistakable testimony from Scripture, how could ANYONE make such statements that are so unequivocally in opposition to
the simple and unambiguous teachings from God’s word? The
Scriptures stated nine (9) times that Christ is the Saviour of the “Whole World”; or that He came to save the
world; etc.; etc. How many times must God say something before Calvinists will accept it? Read the statements: “Behold
the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world”; “the world through him might be saved”; “this
is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world”; “For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and
giveth life unto the world”.; “God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself”; “the bread
that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world”; And
then the three (3) strongest statements from Scripture in opposition to this doctrine – “I came not to judge the
world, but to save the world.” {Christ didn’t say - ‘to save the elect’!}; “the Father sent
the Son to be the Saviour of the world”; {John didn’t say that the Father sent the Son: ‘to be the Saviour
of the elect’!}; “he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole
world”. How
can ANYONE SAY: “Jesus died only for the elect." or "Jesus only bore the sins of the elect.” I listed
the verses that I believe are the strongest in opposition to the Calvinist doctrine of “Limited Atonement”. Unlike
those that will follow (“all”, “all men”, etc.) the Calvinists cannot CHANGE the word “world”
to mean something other than what it means – “THE WORLD”! The
following verses present more support against the doctrine of “Limited Atonement”. However, many of these verses
will be “turned on their head” and challenged by Calvinists by the use of QUESTIONS: ‘Does “ALL”
really mean ALL – Doesn’t it really mean ‘ALL THE ELECT’? ‘Does “ALL MEN” really
mean ALL MEN – Doesn’t it really mean ‘ALL THE ELECT’? ‘Does “EVERY MAN” really
mean EVERY MAN – Doesn’t it really mean ‘ALL THE ELECT’? You see how it goes? ALL MEN John
33
This he said, signifying what death he should die. Romans
1 Timothy
2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For
kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For
this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4Who
will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For
there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who
gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 1 Timothy
4:10For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially
of those that believe. Hebrews
2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour;
that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. 2 Corinthians
15
And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them,
and rose again. John
11
He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. I believe
the Bible record that God: “would have ALL MEN to be saved”! Salvation is for ALL – Christ “died for
ALL”. But NOT ALL will BELIEVE and RECEIVE! I believe that the Lord Jesus Christ tasted “death for EVERY MAN”
– NOT just the elect! I believe
that God “is the Saviour of ALL MEN, specially of those that BELIEVE” {There’s that word – “BELIEVE”
again!}The Lord Jesus Christ is the SAVIOUR of ALL MEN – But, in order for God’s salvation to be effective (efficacious)
in each individual, a man (or woman) must DO something in order to be saved: They must “BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ”
[Acts 16:30-31]. I believe
that 2Corinthians 5:14-15 defines ALL - in regards to WHO Christ died for: “that if one died for all, {ONLY THE ELECT?}
then were all {ONLY THE ELECT?}dead”. The question arises – are (were) ONLY THE ELECT DEAD? Do ONLY THE ELECT
DIE? Don’t ALL (ALL MEN) DIE? If ALL (EVERYONE - Hebrews And
now we will move on to “Whosoever”. {And “whosoever” is NOT “Limited” to the Elect ONLY!}
If God meant for “whosoever” to be ONLY the “elect”, He would have used the word “elect”
in place of the word “whosoever” wherever the word shows up in the Holy Scriptures! If “whosoever”
does NOT mean the “elect” ONLY – then Calvinism is guilty of CHANGING the Holy words of God - But that wouldn’t
be the first time! WHOSOEVER John
12
If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? 13
And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. 14
And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: 15
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life. 17
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in
the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds
were evil. 20
For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21
But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. John
26
And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? Acts
10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 1 John
5:1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also
that is begotten of him. Acts
Romans
Did
you notice “believeth”? When it comes to salvation, you can’t escape BELIEF! It’s God’s GRACE;
It’s God’s LOVE; It’s God’s MERCY; it’s Christ’s SACRIFICE; it’s God’s GIFT;
It’s Christ’s FAITH; but it’s our “BELIEF”! A person MUST BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ in
order to get saved – it’s that simple. [2 Corinthians 11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled
Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.] Whenever
a doctrine gets so complicated and convoluted that it becomes necessary to CHANGE the Holy words of God in order to prove
a point, or ADD words that cannot be found in the Bible – I automatically suspect “someone” of subtilty
complicating “the simplicity that is in Christ”, and introducing “leaven” into the body of Christ. We
now move on to the next set of Scriptures in opposition to the Calvinistic doctrine of “Limited Atonement”: WE - OUR - Romans
5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For
scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But
God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 1 Corinthians
15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the
scriptures; 4 And
that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: 1 Timothy
1:15This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom
I am chief. Galatians
Romans
24
But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; 25
Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. Romans
5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For
scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But
God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much
more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10
For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be
saved by his life. 11
And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 12
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have
sinned: 13
(For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14
Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression,
who is the figure of him that was to come. 15
But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God,
and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16
And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of
many offences unto justification. 17
For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness
shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18
Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free
gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19
For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20
Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21
That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our
Lord. Romans
8:32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 1 Corinthians
5:7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed
for us: 2 Corinthians
21
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Galatians
Ephesians
5:2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a
sweetsmelling savour. 1 Thessalonians
5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, 10
Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Titus
12
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14
Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of
good works. Hebrews
9:11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with
hands, that is to say, not of this building; 12
Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal
redemption for us. 1 Peter
1 Peter
4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath
suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 1 John
The
preceding verses, if taken out of the context of all of the rest of the preceding verses, can be misconstrued to mean “only
the elect”. But a careful inquiry and investigation into the verses will demonstrate that they must all be rightly divided
in light of the testimony of all of the preceding verses that I have cited. {Remember: A verse “out of context”
= “a PRETEXT”!} For
instance: [Galatians And
what about all of the verses where it says that “Christ died for us”? What about all the Christ
died for “the sins of the whole world”; “Christ died for the ungodly”; “Christ died for us”;
and “Christ died for me” – Can you disassociate or divorce all of the verses where it clearly says he died
for “the sins of the whole world” from those where it says He “died for US”? I trow not! If that be
the case then to “rightly divide the word of truth”, the teaching taken from ALL of the verses is simply that
Christ died for “the sins of the whole world”, of which I, you, me, i.e. “US” are but a part. And
now we come to the most difficult verses in dealing with the doctrine of “Limited Atonement”. Calvinists
state: “Support
for this position is drawn from such scriptures as Matt. 26:28 where Jesus died for ‘many'; John 10:11, 15 which say
that Jesus died for the sheep (not the goats, per Matt. 25:32-33); John 17:9 where Jesus in prayer interceded for the ones
given Him, not those of the entire world; Acts 20:28 and Eph. 5:25-27 which state that the Church was purchased by Christ,
not all people; and Isaiah 53:12 which is a prophecy of Jesus’ crucifixion where he would bore the sins of many (not
all).” Let's
examine the verses given in support of the Calvinistic doctrine of "Limited Atonement": Quote: Matthew
26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. FACT:
The verse doesn’t CHANGE the testimony of 1John 2:2. [“And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours
only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”] And since there are no errors or contradictions in the Holy Bible,
we must rightly divide the word of truth (spiritual discernment) to arrive at an understanding. FACT:
Christ died for “the sins of the whole world” - “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become
the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” [John 1:12]. However, only those who have BELIEVED on Him and
who have RECEIVED him receive “remission of sins”. Just because the Lord Jesus Christ died for ALL, doesn’t
mean that ALL are saved! He made the Sacrifice (for “the whole world) – it’s up to us to “BELIEVE
on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” [Acts Quote: Matthew
25:32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his
sheep from the goats: 33
And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. FACT:
The use of this verse to “prove” Calvinistic doctrine illustrates the shallow understanding that John Calvin had
in regards to the Holy word of God. Let us examine the verses within their proper “CONTEXT” shall we? Quote: Matthew
25:31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of
his glory: {This
is speaking about Christ’s return to earth to rule.} 32
And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, AS a shepherd divideth his sheep
from the goats: {This
is NOT speaking about Christ’s “SHEEP”! Do you see the word “AS”? The Lord is using a “simile”
to explain what is going to take place (the judgment of the NATIONS) immediately after He returns to the earth, at the beginning
of His Millennial reign. On the one hand (the right), The Lord Jesus Christ is explaining that those NATIONS (the sheep) who
treated the Jews kindly and helped and supported them, will get to live and go into His Kingdom. While on the other hand (the
left) those NATIONS (the goats) who neglected or refused to help or assist the Jews, or those NATIONS who actively opposed
them are going to be sent into “everlasting fire & punishment”. Read the verses (in CONTEXT) – these
verses are NOT talking about the “atonement”, or New Testament salvation, or Christ’s “SHEEP”.
These are in reference to THE JUDGMENT OF THE NATIONS, which will take place immediately after the end of the Great Tribulation.
This is NOT THE “Judgment Seat of Christ” (for Christians), and NEITHER is it the “Great White Throne”
Judgment (for the “dead”); this is “The Judgment of the Nations”! This is “rightly dividing
the word of truth” -101! Couldn’t Calvin READ? Can his “followers” READ? Please read to the end of
the Chapter. Do you see anything connected to the church, Christians, or New Testament salvation?} 33
And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 34
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from
the foundation of the world: 35
For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36
Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38
When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39
Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these
my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 41
Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil
and his angels: 42
For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 43
I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 44
Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick,
or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45
Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it
not to me. 46
And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. I will
say it again – where is Paul’s “Gospel” (the Gospel of the Grace of God) in all of the preceding verses?
The verses clearly state that some NATIONS are going to “inherit the kingdom” (NOT “eternal life”)
based on how they treated the Jews (Christ’s “brethren”) during the Tribulation; and some NATIONS are going
to be cast into “everlasting fire” & “punishment” based on their mistreatment of the Jews (Christ’s
“brethren”) during the Tribulation. Can
you see what a mess someone can get in - if they don’t “rightly divide the word of truth”? If John Calvin
couldn’t get the rudimentary facts of Scripture straight here, what’s to say he had it right in his ”system
of biblical interpretation” and “theological formulations” – better known as the acronym: T.U.L.I.P.? Quote: John
John
FACT:
The testimony of John 10:11 & 15 doesn’t CHANGE the testimony of 1John 2:2. [“And he is the propitiation for
our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”] And since there are no errors or contradictions
in the Holy Bible, we must rightly divide the word of truth to arrive at a spiritual understanding. The fact that the Lord
Jesus Christ gave His life for “the sheep” doesn’t CHANGE the fact that He died for “the sins of the
whole world”! He could do BOTH you know. Quote: John
17:9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. FACT:
The “them” in the CONTEXT are the Lord Jesus Christ’s DISCIPLES! What has this got to do with “Limited
Atonement”? Quote: John
FACT:
The testimony of John 6:44 doesn’t ALTER or CHANGE the testimony of 1John 2:2. [“And he is the propitiation for
our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”] And since there are no errors or contradictions
in the Holy Bible, we must rightly divide the word of truth to arrive at a spiritual understanding. The fact that - “No
man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him”, doesn’t CHANGE the fact that He died for “the
sins of the whole world”! A verse dealing with the Father drawing men to Christ does NOT ANNUL verses that clearly state
that Christ is the Saviour of the world, and is the PROPITIATION for the sins of the whole world. Quote: Acts
AMEN!
So what is the point? Does this ALTER or CHANGE what has already been established in the Holy Scriptures elsewhere? Does God’s
Holy word have errors or contradictions in it? I trow not! Quote: Ephesians
26
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should
be holy and without blemish. Does
the fact that Christ “loved the church and gave himself for it” NULLIFY the fact that He sacrificed Himself to
take “away the sin of the world”, or that His sacrifice was made for“the life of the world”? Of course
not! He could do both you know. [John 17
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.] At this point
- are you getting tired & weary of all this? Quote: Isaiah
53:12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath
poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession
for the transgressors. Does
the fact that Isaiah 53:12 states the “he bare the sin of many”; ALTER or CHANGE the testimony of all of the Scriptures
that I have posted? - especially 1John 2:2: “he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for
the sins of the whole world.” I shall deal with "many" in my comments immediately following. I have
added three more verses that were not cited, but fall under the same category: Quote: John
17:2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. Acts
Acts
These
verses are in reference to the Lord Jesus Christ giving eternal life to “as many as thou (the Father) hast given Him”;
and “as many the Lord our God shall call”; and “as many as were ordained to eternal life”. These verses
have to do with “predestination” [Romans But
all of this does not CHANGE the fact that: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever
believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16] All
three of these verses do NOT ALTER, CHANGE, or NULLIFY all of the verses that were presented in opposition to the doctrine
of “Limited Atonement”; if they do – then there are “contradictions” in the Holy word of God,
which, we know and are absolutely sure, that there are NONE! The
solution to an “apparent contradiction” in the Bible is to: 2 Timothy
And
the secret to “rightly dividing” is found in Isaiah: Isaiah
28:10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: Isaiah
28:13 But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here
a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken. Can we identify the “many”? John
In
this verse the “many” are born again children of God - Who become “the sons of God” by BELIEVING on
His name, and which “receive” Him the moment they BELIEVE. [John Romans
The
“many” in Romans 5:15 are ALL MANKIND! Because of Adam’s offence – ALL men (and women) DIE [1Corinthians
16
And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of
many offences unto justification. 17
For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness
shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18
Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free
gift came upon all men unto justification of life. {The Scriptural “requirement” being - IF they BELIEVE!} Because
of Adam’s offence “judgment came upon all men to condemnation”. ALL men (and women) are under this judgment.
“All men” means – “ALL MEN” – NOT JUST THE ELECT! In order to receive “the free
gift” many must first BELIEVE. The “free gift” is offered to ALL, but the Scriptural requirement is that
only those who BELIEVE can receive it. According to the Scriptures - “many” can sometimes mean “ALL”! 19
For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. {The Scriptural
“requirement” being - IF they BELIEVE!} Because
of Adam’s disobedience “many were made sinners”. We know that ALL men (and women) are sinners, so according
to the Scriptures - “many” can sometimes mean “ALL”! Does
that mean that ALL men & women will “be made righteous”? Of course not! Again, the promise is to ALL, but
the Scriptural requirement is that only those who BELIEVE can receive it. Are
we done? How about just one more? Hebrews
According
to the Holy Scriptures – the Lord Jesus Christ is not only the “Propitiation” for our sins, but He is the
“Propitiation” for “the sins of the whole world”. How do we square that with Hebrews 9:28? It’s
very simple really: According to the Scriptures - “many” can sometimes mean “ALL”! In
conclusion: God will have “all men to be saved” [1Timothy 2:4] – NOT just the elect; the Lord Jesus Christ
“tasted death for every man” [Hebrews 2:9] – NOT just the elect; the Lord Jesus Christ is “the Saviour
of the world” [1 John 4:14] – NOT just the elect; “Christ died for my sins, for our sins, and “for
the sins of the whole world [Galatians 2:20; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 1John 2:2] – NOT just the elect! The
Bible states: 16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life. 17
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in
the name of the only begotten Son of God. I believe
the Scriptures as they are – NOT as John Calvin perceived them to be. If you want to get saved - ignore all of the complexity
of Calvinism (or any other “ISM”) and just “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”
The “simplicity that is in Christ” was never meant to be so complicated!
T.U.L.I.P.{the
famous acronym associated with Calvinistic beliefs} I = “Irresistible Grace” Calvinists
state: Quote: “When
God calls his elect into salvation, they cannot resist. God offers to all people the gospel message. This is called the external
call. But to the elect, God extends an internal call and it cannot be resisted. This call is by the Holy Spirit who works
in the hearts and minds of the elect to bring them to repentance and regeneration whereby they willingly and freely come to
God. Some of the verses used in support of this teaching are Romans 9:16 where it says that "it is not of him who wills nor
of him who runs, but of God who has mercy"; Philippians 2:12-13 where God is said to be the one working salvation in the individual;
John 6:28-29 where faith is declared to be the work of God; Acts 13:48 where God appoints people to believe; and John 1:12-13
where being born again is not by man’s will, but by God’s.” Once
again we are presented with another Calvinist doctrine which is established with the aid of another additional word that cannot
be found in the Holy Bible, i.e. “Irresistible”. In the course of studying the five (5) major tenets (premises)
of Calvinism, it has become perfectly clear that Calvinists enlist “catch words” that are foreign to the Holy
Scriptures, (i.e. “Total”; “Depravity”; “Unconditional”; “Irresistible”; “External”;
“Internal”) “catch words” that are cleverly used to influence an inquirer, in order to establish their
doctrines. Shouldn’t the use of these extra-Biblical words (by Calvinists) be considered ADDING to the Holy words of
God? If not – what should it be called? It
should also be noted that the Calvinists that I have quoted from the Calvinist Corner are using some other translation (?),
other than the King James Bible – their quote: Romans
Whereas
the Holy Bible says: Romans 9:16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. Now,
almost all Christians know (or at least they should know) that God has “mercy”. Mercy is one of the five main
“Moral Attributes” of God. However, according to the King James Bible, in Romans 9:16 it is “God that sheweth
mercy”. The verse is not stating the obvious fact that God POSSESSES the Moral Attribute, i.e. Mercy - WHO doesn’t
know that? The verse is talking about God DEMONSTRATING that Mercy! {Just another “minor” difference - amongst
thousands of the so-called “minor” differences between the Holy Bible and another imitation bible.} I’m
not claiming that all Calvinists have embraced the corrupt modern translations, I know better than that. But it is interesting
how, many Calvinists won’t hesitate to ADD words foreign to the Bible in order to establish their doctrines; or they
will have no shame in substituting words such as “SICK” for “WICKED”, or “SLAVE” for “SERVANT”;
or “HAS” for “SHEWETH”; etc.; etc.; ad infinitum; to enforce their preconceived notions. I believe
that Almighty God is “SOVEREIGN” {All Powerful}. I believe that God can do whatever He “WILLS”. After
all, the God of the Bible is the ONE TRUE GOD; the ETERNAL “I AM” {Self Existing [without beginning or end of
existence] Immortal-Perpetual-Unchangeable}. I firmly believe in God’s substantive attributes: I believe in GOD’S
OMNISCIENCE {All-Knowing - All-Seeing}; I believe in GOD’S OMNIPRESENCE {Present Everywhere - in all places at the same
time}; and I believe in GOD’S OMNIPOTENCE {All Powerful – Unlimited Power}. I also
believe that God WILL NOT (Cannot) do anything that is CONTRARY to His Moral Character. And since Almighty God is HOLY, JUST,
TRUE, LOVING, and MERCIFUL; He Will Not (CANNOT) do anything that goes against His basic MORAL “FACULTIES”. For
example God CANNOT LIE: Titus
1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; Numbers
Romans
3:4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings,
and mightest overcome when thou art judged. I do
not question God’s Sovereignty, however, it is abundantly clear from Scripture that there are some things that God either
CANNOT do, or WILL NOT do. And recognizing this fact does not, in any way, detract from Almighty God’s Sovereignty.
Instead, it establishes all of God’s “Attributes” {Substantive & Moral} – especially His HOLINESS”. There
are many verses in the Holy Scriptures that clearly demonstrate men resisting God or God’s Will. I can not cite them
all, but I will cite many of the major ones. Please
read all of Psalm 78. The whole Psalm is a “Parable” of God continually reaching out to His people ( The
following sample verses from Psalm 78 “illustrate” the point: Psalms
78:40 How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert! Psalms
78:41 Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel. Ps
78:32 For all this they sinned still, and believed not for his wondrous works. Psalms
78:37 For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant. Psalms
78:56 Yet they tempted and provoked the most high God, and kept not his testimonies: 57
But turned back, and dealt unfaithfully like their fathers: they were turned aside like a deceitful bow. What
is the “problem” with God’s “CHOSEN” people ( Psalm
78:22 Because they believed not in God, and trusted not in his salvation: Did
you get that? There’s “BELIEF” AGAIN! And herein lays the “PROBLEM”. How many times does God
have to repeat something before it “takes”? God’s people (Jews & Christians) have always had a “problem”
with BELIEVING. As a matter of fact, the “stumbling block” for ALL people (Jews & Gentiles alike) has always
been BELIEF – either in God’s word (written & oral) and in the “WORD” {INCARNATE}! [Matthew 21;42;
Mark Psalm
78 clearly demonstrates God’s people ( Please
read Chapter 7 of the book of Acts. In Acts 7:1-60 Stephen gives a very short “synopsis” of the history of the
Jewish (Hebrew) people; from the call of Abraham (the first Hebrew) up to and including the life/death/burial and resurrection
of the Lord Jesus Christ. Acts
7:37 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your
brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear. 38
This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the 39
To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Acts
52
Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the
Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: 53
Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. We
have David’s testimony that God’s people ( Matthew
23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I
have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Luke
What
Did the Lord Jesus Christ say? “HOW OFTEN WOULD I . . . . AND YE WOULD NOT”! How
much more do Bible believers “need” to convince them that God’s people can LIMIT God; RESIST the Holy Ghost;
and DEFY God’s Will for them? Hmmm? So then, with the crystal clear and irrefutable testimony of the written word of
God, and the Holy Son of God - what is Calvinism doing teaching “IRRESISTIBLE”GRACE? Is God sovereign? Of course
He is! But, can God’s people RESIST and LIMIT God? According to the Holy Scriptures – they sure can. I don’t
recommend it, but I know, from personal experience, that a good portion of my life (since I believed in the Lord Jesus Christ
as my Saviour) has been spent resisting God’s will for me. I’m not proud of it, but that’s the plain, unvarnished
truth! I thank God for His love, His mercy, and His longsuffering patience. It would be the height of hypocrisy for me to
claim that everything that I have done, since I got saved, is according to God’s will – I know better! If
1 Timothy
2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who
will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. The
above verse is perfectly clear. GOD “WILL have ALL MEN to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”
Someone will have to twist the Scripture, and turn it on its head in order to make it say something other than what it just
said. Oh, I know: “ALL MEN” doesn’t really “mean” ALL MEN (as in “ALL”), IT REALLY
MEANS –“just the elect” . . . . . . But we’ve heard that “Song” before (and it’s
getting pretty OLD!) IF
God “will have all men to be saved” – then WHAT is the problem? The “problem” is NOT that “some
are elected into salvation, others are not”. The “problem” is: “And ye will not come to me, that ye
might have life” [John Let’s
examine John 5:40 in context and see if we can get some “light” on the matter: John
32
There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true. 33
Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth. 34
But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved. 35
He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. 36
But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that
I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me. 37
And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen
his shape. 38
And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not. 39
Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 40
And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life. 41
I receive not honour from men. 42
But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. 43
I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. 44
How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? 45
Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. 46
For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. 47
But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words? WHY
would the Lord Jesus Christ say: “And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40] - IF the doctrine
of “IRRESISTIBLE” GRACE were true? Wouldn’t He have said: “And (because ye are not among the elect)
ye will not come to me, that ye might have life”? WHY does the Lord introduce the word “BELIEVE” 5 times
in 4 verses (verses 44-47) in the context, and never mention “elect”, “elected”, or “election”
ONCE? What
about Titus 2:11: Titus
Since
we all know that the preceding verse is true [Romans 3:4], WHY don’t ALL MEN get saved - IF “IRRESISTIBLE”
GRACE is also true? Please read the verse carefully over again. The only way you can annul the clear teaching of the verse
is if you CHANGE “ALL MEN” to something other than ALL MEN–like ALL THE ELECT; or EVERY KIND OF MAN; etc;
etc; I believe the verse (WHERE it stands & HOW it stands). I don’t profess to understand all of its implications
– I just accept it without any reservations or changes. Let’s
examine Luke 8:11-12 in regards to this issue: Luke
12
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should
believe and be saved. What
about Luke 8:12: “lest they should believe and be saved”? IF “IRRESISTIBLE”GRACE is true, WHAT is
Satan doing taking away the word out of someone’s heart “lest they believe”? IF they are the elect, “they
cannot resist” anyway, so why does the devil (who knows the Scriptures far better than John Calvin - or any of his followers)
even bother, since the elect cannot “resist” God’s Grace? It’s very simple really: Satan KNOWS that
the “Key” to SALVATION is when a person “BELIEVES” (in his heart) on the Lord Jesus Christ - that
they are SAVED for eternity, and so he does every thing in his power to prevent them from “BELIEVING”! {IF “IRRESISTIBLE”
GRACE were true – he wouldn’t waste 5 minutes trying to prevent someone from “believing”, since, according
to Calvinism, they can’t “resist” the Gospel of the Grace of God anyway!} It’s
impossible (for me) to list even half of the verses in the Holy Bible where people (lost and saved) have resisted God or God’s
will. One of the main themes of the Bible is man’s continual defiance, disobedience and rebellion against God and His
Holy word. The idea that God “forces” people (against their will) to BELIEVE in Him is absurd! Under the Law the
Jews were obligated to OBEY Him (although He didn’t force them to BELIEVE in Him.). Under GRACE, the Lord is seeking
those people, who WILLINGLY BELIEVE IN Him; who WILLINGLY come to Him; who WILLINGLY worship Him; and who WILLINGLY obey Him
[John 4:23-24]. Does
the Scriptural requirement of BELIEF in order to RECEIVE God’s salvation negate those verses where it says: “No
man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:44]
Of course not! But those verses must be understood in the context of: John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth,
and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. WHO does the Father draw? Why those who “come” to Him
BY THE Lord Jesus Christ. And HOW is this accomplished? Why, by believing “on the Lord Jesus Christ” [Acts Under
GRACE there is NO Fear, NO Intimidation, NO Coercion, or “Force”! If God wanted men and women to be like robots,
He would have made Himself some more Angels. In
1Corinthians 9:2 Paul is “made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” [1
Corinthians What
about the following verses: Proverbs
1:22How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? 23
Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. 24
Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; 25
But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: 26
I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; 27
When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. 28
Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: 29
For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD: 30
They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. 31
Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. 32
For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. 33
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. In
the preceding verses we have God’s CALL, and people REFUSING that CALL; we have “no man” regarding, and
wanting NONE of God’s reproof; there are people in these verses, who “have at set at nought all my (God’s)
counsel”; you have people who “hated knowledge”, and who “despised all my (God’s) reproof”;
the Scriptures clearly state that those people “did not choose the fear of the Lord” and “they would none
of my counsel. What
happened to “IRRESISTIBLE” GRACE? What is going on? WHY do Christians accept and “embrace” such a
doctrine that is so contrary to the Scriptural record? Here
a few (a very few) more verses demonstrating that people, from Adam up to our present time, have always “resisted”
God and His Holy word. Jeremiah
35:15 I have sent also unto you all my servants the prophets, rising up early and sending them, saying, Return ye now every
man from his evil way, and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which
I have given to you and to your fathers: but ye have not inclined your ear, nor hearkened unto me. Jeremiah
35:17 Therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring upon Judah and upon all the inhabitants
of Jerusalem all the evil that I have pronounced against them: because I have spoken unto them, but they have not heard; and
I have called unto them, but they have not answered. Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy
Isaiah
30:15 For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence
shall be your strength: and ye would not. Jeremiah
29:19 Because they have not hearkened to my words, saith the LORD, which I sent unto them by my servants the prophets, rising
up early and sending them; but ye would not hear, saith the LORD. Calvinists
state: “God
offers to all people the gospel message.” I challenge
anyone to find the term “the gospel message” in the Holy Bible. God is very careful not to “combine”
the two words – “gospel” & “message” together in His Holy word so that no one makes the
mistake of thinking God’s WORDS are just a “message”. The “Gospel” of the Grace of God uses
very specific words – NOT the “message” that is being preached on radio & TV throughout the “This
is called the external call. But to the elect, God extends an internal call and it cannot be resisted.” This call is
by the Holy Spirit who works in the hearts and minds of the elect to bring them to repentance and regeneration whereby they
willingly and freely come to God. Some of the verses used in support of this teaching are Romans 9:16 where it says that "it
is not of him who wills nor of him who runs, but of God who has mercy"; Philippians 2:12-13 where God is said to be the one
working salvation in the individual; John 6:28-29 where faith is declared to be the work of God; Acts 13:48 where God appoints
people to believe; and John 1:12-13 where being born again is not by man’s will, but by God’s.” Calvinists
state: “Some
of the verses used in support of this teaching are Romans 9:16 where it says that "it is not of him who wills nor of him who
runs, but of God who has mercy" [Romans
All
genuine Bible believers believe the preceding verse, so where’s the “external” or “internal call”?
What in the world does this have to do with “IRRESISTIBLE” GRACE? Calvinists
state: “Some
of the verses used in support of this teaching are . . . . . Philippians 2:12-13 where God is said to be the one working salvation
in the individual;”[Philippians 2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but
now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.] Let’s
get this straight – According to these Calvinists, Philippians Calvinists
state: “Some
of the verses used in support of this teaching are . . . . . John 6:28-29 where faith is declared to be the work of God;” John
29
Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. We
are commanded to “rightly divide the word of truth” - Question: Do you see the word “FAITH” in either
verse? Someone is CHANGING the words of God to establish their own doctrine! The word “FAITH” is NOT the same
as the word “BELIEVE”! Romans
10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from
the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11
For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. 12
For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. 13
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?
and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15
And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel
of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! Hebrews
11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Romans
Romans
5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: Ephesians
2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not
of works, lest any man should boast. Let’s
get the chronology of salvation straight, shall we: Ephesians
14
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. We
BELIEVE FIRST, and then we RECEIVE FAITH! Calvinism confuses the 2 words – they are NOT THE SAME! We are NOT “justified”
by our BELIEF – we are justified “by the faith of Jesus Christ”. Things that are different are not the same. Galatians
2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed
in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the
law shall no flesh be justified. The
Scriptures cited, plainly say that the “work of God” is to get people (all men) to “believe on Him whom
He hath sent” – the word “faith” is NOT in either verse. The way that God goes about this “work”
is through His written Holy word; the Holy Spirit (convincing & convicting); and the preaching (by men) of the “Gospel”
(NOT some “message”). Calvinists
state: “Some
of the verses used in support of this teaching are . . . . . Acts 13:48 where God appoints people to believe;” Acts
13:46Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you:
but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. 47
For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation
unto the ends of the earth. 48
And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal
life believed. Question:
Does this one verse [Acts Question:
WHO is “ordained”? Answer: THOSE whom God “foreknew”. Question: WHO did God “foreknow”?
Answer: THOSE whom God did “predestinate”. Question: WHO did God “predestinate”? Answer: THOSE whom
He “called”. Question: WHO did God “call”? Answer: THOSE whom He “justified”. Question:
WHO did God “JUSTIFY”? Answer: THOSE who received “faith”. Question: WHO received “faith”?
Answer: THOSE who “BELIEVED” ON THE Lord Jesus Christ! {That wasn’t so hard – was it?} Quote: Romans
29
For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn
among many brethren. 30
Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified,
them he also glorified. Calvinists
state: “Some
of the verses used in support of this teaching are . . . . . and John 1:12-13 where being born again is not by man’s
will, but by God’s.” John
13
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. WHAT
Romans 9:16;Philippians 2:12-13;John If
I had the time (and the space) I could go on (and on, and on) – but why bother? At some point in each of these studies
it becomes tedious dealing with the ADDING, SUBTRACTING, and CHANGING OF God’s Holy words, so I’ll close for now,
perhaps (some day) I may expand on this critique, and then again I may not. John
6:39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should
raise it up again at the last day. 40
And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life:
and I will raise him up at the last day. When
I first read the Bible in 1958 the Holy Spirit convinced me that this truly was the word of God. Through the testimony of
the Scriptures I “saw” the Lord Jesus Christ (through spiritual eyes only) and I BELIEVED on Him. God never coerced
or forced me to BELIEVE – the Holy Spirit called me through the written word, and convinced me of the truth of the Gospel,
and it was then – AFTER I BELIEVED, that I received the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour (everlasting life) and became
a son of God. God didn’t BELIEVE for me, and neither did he ever “force me to BELIEVE. I WILLINGLY BELIEVED from
my heart. A doctrine that teaches that God “believes” for us, or “makes” (forces) us to BELIEVE (i.e.
“IRRESISTIBLE” GRACE), is contrary to the Holy Scriptures, and should be avoided at all costs. The
"Simplicity that is in Christ" is far less complicated than Calvinism would have you believe. John
1 John
T.U.L.I.P.{the
famous acronym associated with Calvinistic beliefs} P = “Perseverance of the Saints” Calvinists
state: “You
cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected, the Son has redeemed, and the Holy Spirit has applied salvation,
those thus saved are eternally secure. They are eternally secure in Christ. Some of the verses for this position are John
10:27-28 where Jesus said His sheep will never perish; John 6:47 where salvation is described as everlasting life; Romans
8:1 where it is said we have passed out of judgment; 1 Corinthians 10:13 where God promises to never let us be tempted beyond
what we can handle; and Phil. 1:6 where God is the one being faithful to perfect us until the day of Jesus’ return.” To
begin with, the words “persevere” and “persevered” cannot be found in the Holy Bible. The word “perseverance”
shows up only once in the Bible [Ephesians WHY
do all of the main tenets (premises) of Calvinism either misuse Biblical words (take them out of context or misapply them)
or use words, to bolster their doctrines, which cannot be found in the Holy Bible? [1 Peter Calvinists
state: “You
cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected, the Son has redeemed, and the Holy Spirit has applied salvation,
those thus saved are eternally secure. Although
the preceding statement is true (overall), the way it has been stated leaves a lot to be desired - because it is cleverly
worded to emphasize Calvinistic doctrine, and avoids mentioning (leaves out) many important Scriptures applicable to the subject. Let
us carefully examine the statement (bit by bit): “You cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected,”
Is that the ONLY REASON why we “cannot lose your (our) salvation”? I trow not! I am always suspicious of religious
people who only use those Scriptures that reinforce there pet doctrines and leave out the rest of the council of God on an
issue. We
cannot lose our Salvation because the Holy Scriptures have PROMISED us that if we BELIEVE on/in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ,
we will have (receive - possess) ETERNAL LIFE and NEVER PERISH! John
15
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life. 17
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in
the name of the only begotten Son of God. The
Calvinists conveniently LEFT OUT part of the “equation” {BELIEVE} – didn’t they? WHY? Why do Christians
do that? Why not give us the “whole council of God”, instead of only those parts that support your “system
of biblical interpretation” and “theological formulations”? And
please take note: Calvinists have a strong “personal preference” for the word “ELECT” and at the same
time, seem to have an aversion to the word “BELIEVE”. FACT:
In the entire Bible there are a total of 27 verses with the words “elect”, “elected”, and “election”
in them. Of those 27 verses with those words in them – 1 verse is in reference to the “elect” angels; 2
verses are in reference to the Lord Jesus Christ; 14 verses are in reference to the Jews (Hebrews); and 10 verses are in reference
to Christians. {Check it out}. FACT:
There are approximately 302 verses with the words “believe”, “believeth”, “believed”,
“believing”, and “belief” in them (better than 10 to 1 with “elect”, etc., and better
than 30 to 1 when applied only to Christians). IF the Scriptures speak 10 times more (or 30 times more) about “believing”,
etc., than “elect”, “elected”, and “election”, – WHY do some Christians keep on
emphasizing “election”, etc., while practically ignoring “BELIEVING”? Hmmm? {It reminds me of some
of our Pentecostal brethren (“Charismatics”) always over emphasizing “speaking in tongues” - after
the Apostle Paul’s admonition: “Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by
my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.” [1 Corinthians 14:19] Our Calvinist
brethren over emphasis on “elect”, “elected”, and “election”, isn’t quite that bad
- but its’ bad enough, and out of order (i.e. balance).} Is
the sole reason why “You cannot lose your salvation” -the reason that Calvinists supply: “Because the Father
has elected,” or is there more to it? I am not going to go over “election” again, except to say that I am
highly suspicious of people (especially “religious” people) when they USE the Bible to support a “pet”
doctrine, and only emphasize those verses in support of their beliefs, and conveniently fail to supply “the rest of
the story” (the whole council of God). According
to the Holy Scriptures “election” is part of the reason we cannot lose our salvation. But the other part that
is crucial to our not losing it, and the part that God emphasizes far more than “election”, is His PROMISES to
us – that is - IF we BELIEVE! Quote: [Numbers
[Romans
Romans
4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Acts
10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Romans
25
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of
sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26
To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. John
26
And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? John
26
But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 27
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. John
John
5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and
shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. John
John
1 John
11
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12
He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13
These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life,
and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. There’s
more (a whole lot more), but why go on? The written "PROMISES" of God are sure, and they give us hope. The statement: “You
cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected” is only PART of the Scriptural testimony - the PART that
Calvinists have chosen to emphasize to strengthen their doctrine, to the detriment of the testimony of the rest of the Scriptures
dealing with the subject! Remember: “A text without a “context” is a PRETEXT”! Calvinists
state: “You
cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected, the Son has redeemed, and the Holy Spirit has applied salvation,
those thus saved are eternally secure. When
Calvinists state: “The Son has redeemed”, they will get no argument from me or any other genuine Bible believer
[Galatians The
“simplicity” that is in Christ [2 Corinthians 11:3] is such, that even a child can receive it. Woe to the man
(or men) that are guilty of “corrupting” that “simplicity”. [2 Corinthians 11:3 But I fear, lest by
any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is
in Christ.] Calvinists
state: “You
cannot lose your salvation. Because the Father has elected, the Son has redeemed, and the Holy Spirit has applied salvation,
those thus saved are eternally secure. I have
looked throughout the Scriptures for the phrase “the Holy Spirit has applied salvation” (or something close to
it). It may seem a moot point, but – WHY not USE “Scriptural Terms”, if you’re going to teach Bible
doctrine? The following verses are the only verses that I could find, out of all the verses in the Bible, with the word “apply”
or “applied” in them. Psalms
90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Proverbs
2:2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Proverbs
Proverbs
Ecclesiastes
Ecclesiastes
8:9 All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man
ruleth over another to his own hurt. Ecclesiastes
Every
single verse has to do with men “applying” their hearts unto “something” (knowledge, understanding,
instruction, wisdom, every work) – NOT “the Holy Spirit has applied salvation” unto men (or women). The
statement is probably true, but the use of words and phrases that cannot be found in the Holy Scriptures opens up avenues
for private interpretation; and it’s hard enough dealing with men privately interpreting the Scriptures – never
mind having to deal with words and phrases that are foreign to the Bible. The
following are some verses (from the Holy Bible) describing the Holy Spirit’s work in our salvation. In addition to convicting
and calling men (through God’s word) - AFTER we BELIEVE the Gospel - the Holy Spirit WASHES, REGENERATES, SEALS, SANCTIFIES,
and RENEWS us. IF that’s what Calvinists believe when they say: “the Holy Spirit has applied salvation”,
then that is satisfactory to a Bible believer. Ephesians
13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed,
ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. 2 Thessalonians
2:13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning
chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: 14
Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Titus
3:4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, 5 Not
by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and
renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which
he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7 That
being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. I believe
that genuine Bible believers can accept the rest of the statement, made by Calvinists, as being true and doctrinally sound;
although the use of 1 Corinthians 10:13 “hints” at Christians being UNABLE to FALL into sin – because of
the so-called “perseverance” of the saints - a doctrine that would promote “sinless perfection”, with
all of its defects and deficiencies. “They
are eternally secure in Christ. Some of the verses for this position are John 10:27-28 where Jesus said His sheep will never
perish; John 6:47 where salvation is described as everlasting life; Romans 8:1 where it is said we have passed out of judgment;
1 Corinthians 10:13 where God promises to never let us be tempted beyond what we can handle; and Phil. 1:6 where God is the
one being faithful to perfect us until the day of Jesus’ return.” Personally,
I do not like the term “perseverance of the saints”, which “hints” at men (the saints) having the
power (within themselves) to “persevere”. I do not believe that Christian men or women have the “power”
to KEEP their salvation for even one day! If it weren’t for God’s Grace; His Love; His Mercy; His Patience; His
Long Suffering; and His PROMISE to KEEP and PRESERVE His saints – none of us would “persevere”! 1 Peter
18
And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? 19
Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto
a faithful Creator. Jude
25
To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Psalms
31:23 O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Psalms
37:28 For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked
shall be cut off. Psalms
97:10 Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. Proverbs
2:8 He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints. 1 Samuel
2:9 He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. Jude
1:1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved
in Jesus Christ, and called: I am
done with my examination of Calvinism, or more specifically the Calvinistic doctrines known as T.U.L.I.P. I have tried to
compare those doctrines with the Bible and I have found many of them to be contrary to the Holy words of God. You will notice
that I have refrained from making any personal attacks on Calvin himself, or any of his followers. If
I have differed or disagreed with Calvinistic teachings, I have tried to remain within the confines of the Holy Scriptures
in my rebuttal of their doctrines. I don’t profess to know everything, and neither do I think that I have all of the
answers. What I do know is that, if someone like me, (without religious “training” or any formal Bible “schooling”)
can refute these doctrines, (as I have from the King James Bible) then Christians should not be fearful of contending with
Calvinists, just because they may be “educated” (schooled) and “well-versed” in their doctrines. I may
post another Post on this issue in the future, where I may examine the person of John Calvin himself; his background; his
life; his “conduct” (his “conversation”); his “works”; and some of his other “doctrines”.
I have yet to decide whether I will undertake that study or not. Suffice it to say that, from what I do know (and remember)
from my studies of church history (back in the 70’s & 80’s), many of the people today, who have embraced John
Calvin’s teachings and doctrines, would not have been quite so enthusiastic about the man or his doctrines if they had
had to live under his oppressive ecclesiastical RULE! Matthew
26
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27
And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Mark
10:42 But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise
lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. 43
But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: 44
And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. 45
For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Luke
26
But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth
serve. 27
For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as
he that serveth. The
Lord of Glory (God manifest in the flesh) set THE EXAMPLE for ALL of His servants to follow: Philippians
2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who,
being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But
made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And
being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. I am
leery and suspicious of any Christian, (regardless of how “godly” he may appear) WHO sets about to “rule”,
or “exercise authority”, or have “dominion” over other Christians; or WHO seeks to establish a “reputation”
for himself. If the Lord of Glory didn’t seek these things while “serving” on this earth – WHY would
ANY Christian think himself better than our Lord? Hmmm? Matthew
Luke
WHY
would any Christian “think” that he could “improve” on that? Or WHY would any Christian try?
Some Points clarified I made
it crystal clear that the terms “all” or “all men” must be determined by the CONTEXT, and that “many
of these verses will be “turned on their head and challenged by Calvinists by the use of QUESTIONS:” “The
following verses present more support against the doctrine of “Limited Atonement”. However, many of these verses
will be “turned on their head” and challenged by Calvinists by the use of QUESTIONS: ‘Does “ALL”
really mean ALL – Doesn’t it really mean ‘ALL THE ELECT’? ‘Does “ALL MEN” really
mean ALL MEN – Doesn’t it really mean ‘ALL THE ELECT’? ‘Does “EVERY MAN” really
mean EVERY MAN – Doesn’t it really mean ‘ALL THE ELECT’? You see how it goes?” Loaded question #1: “why would a loving God declare that he "wants all (as
you define all) men to be saved", 1 Tim 2:4, when he knew way in advance not every human being is going to hear the Gospel
message?” Are
you serious? Your question reveals an infantile attempt to “rationalize” WHY God does what He does. Is Almighty
God unjust? “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” [Genesis 18:25] Is God "the Judge of all the earth"
or just "part" of the earth? Does "all" in the verse mean "ALL" or just "part"? Would He send someone to Hell that didn’t
deserve to be there because they didn’t “hear” the Gospel of the Grace of God? Have you not read? Romans
Psalms
53:2 God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God. 3 Every
one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. {Are there any exemptions
to “every one” or “altogether”? Who does this verse apply to - if not “ALL”?} Isaiah
64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and
our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. {“all” = ALL – as in “ALL”! I can deal with
ignorance – what I have great difficulty dealing with is “duplicity” and outright “disingenuousness”!} Romans
19
Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20
For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made,
even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are withou texcuse: 21
Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations,
and their foolish heart was darkened. 22
Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23
And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts,
and creeping things. 24
Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between
themselves: 25
Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for
ever. Amen. 26
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against
nature: 27
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working
that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things
which are not convenient; 29
Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate,
deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30
Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31
Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32
Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure
in them that do them. Job
12:7 But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee: 8 Or
speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. 9 Who
knoweth not in all these that the hand of the LORD hath wrought this? {Almost all of "educated" modern day man!} 10
In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind. 11
Doth not the ear try words? and the mouth taste his meat? Do
you think, for even a moment, that just because a man doesn’t “hear” the Gospel of the Grace of God, that
he will not be held accountable or that he will be declared innocent? The whole of creation and the creatures in it are “witness”
enough to the existence of God – all men are “without excuse”, whether they have heard the Gospel or not!
[Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that
he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.] There’s that dreaded word “BELIEVE” again! Job
Job
Job
33:12 Behold, in this thou art not just: I will answer thee, that God is greater than man. 13
Why dost thou strive against him? for he giveth not account of any of his matters. Without
the Lord Jesus Christ, all of mankind is hopelessly lost (that’s why God inspired and preserved His word and instituted
the Gospel, and that’s why God calls “preachers” [Romans Job
Job
17
My transgression is sealed up in a bag, and thou sewest up mine iniquity. Job
Job
15
If I be wicked, woe unto me; and if I be righteous, yet will I not lift up my head. I am full of confusion; therefore see
thou mine affliction; The
above words were uttered by Job, about whom, God said: “that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright
man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil.” [Job 1:8] If a man like Job couldn’t make it on his own –
who can? With the exception of the Lord Jesus Christ, has there ever been a man (or a woman) born of a woman who was (or is)
without sin? How about a few more sophomoric questions: WHY?
- Would God choose the Hebrews, “above all the nations that are upon the earth” {out of all the people in the
world}, to be His people? Doesn’t that seem to be extremely “narrow” and “unreasonable” from
your point of view? Deuteronomy
7:6 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself,
above all people that are upon the face of the earth. 7 The
LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest
of all people: 8 But
because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought
you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of 9 Know
therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and
keep his commandments to a thousand generations; Deuteronomy
14:1 Ye are the children of the LORD your God: ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the
dead. 2 For
thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all
the nations that are upon the earth. Isaiah
41:8 But thou, 9 Thou
whom I have taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my
servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away. Isaiah
48:9 For my name's sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off. 10
Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction. 11
For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory
unto another. 12
Hearken unto me, O Jacob and WHY?
– Would God choose to commit “the Oracles of God” (the Old Testament) to just the Jews (Hebrews) and no
one else? What about the rest of the world? Hmmm? Doesn’t the fact that God committed the Holy Scriptures (His words)
to some obscure and little known nation in the land of Canaan “seem” to be just a bit “unfair” to
all the rest of the world? Romans
3:1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? 2 Much
every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. 3 For
what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? 4 God
forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and
mightest overcome when thou art judged. Acts
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