Monday, October 27, 2008
AR 40-501
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Ghosts from my past.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
feedback.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Again, this study "theology" keeps coming up in my life...
1. Fatalism. What is the point of evangelising, if it is already decided who is to be saved? Similarly, if a person is starving or in need, God has put him in that position, so there is no need to do anything about it.
2. A Tribal Consciousness. Groups and Nationalities began to see themselves as "Chosen by God". Other peoples, not being so "chosen", could be treated harshly. Calvinist groups are seen as exacerbating divisions in places like Ireland, the USA and South Africa
We can see that the Bible also denies the idea of irresistible grace, showing that our Free Will does affect its action:
2 Cor 6: 1 As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. (NIV).
The Bible shows clearly that God wants everyone to be saved, and that He has not predestined anyone for damnation.
1 Timothy 2.3-4: This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires ALL men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
2 Peter 3; 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (NIV).
1 John 2: 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. (NIV).
WHEN WILL IT END? I wish I could give up this fight and just say "you win" but I can't. I won't let it take over people who don't know any better, I think it is a dangerous and stupid doctrine to live a life by and I greatly agree that anyone who tries to teach calvinism to a young believer should have a mill stone tied about his neck and thrown into the sea for causing a young one to stumble.
SO there.