branch of Protestantism
POPULARITY
Categories
Defenders: Doctrine of Salvation (Part 5): Evaluation of Calvinism and Arminianism
Our Election in Christ (1) (audio) David Eells 12/31/25 I'm going to talk to you today about our election in Christ. There is much false teaching and many misconceptions in Christianity about the doctrine of predestination, which includes calling and election, yet it's actually been a general power in my life to understand it. It's given me more faith in the Lord and more fear of the Lord. Much of the church, especially in America, rejects and even fights against it. Predestination is opposed by the Armenian doctrine or the “freewillers,” as they are called, but when you look around, you don't see the free will that people say that they have because everybody is serving something. Jesus said in (Mat.12:30) He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. So you are either serving Him or you are serving the devil. (Psa.51:5 KJV) Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Someone who is bound in sin is not free to make a godly choice; the ability to do that comes from God Himself and it's a gift. (Joh.15:16) Ye did not choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and [that] your fruit should abide: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. Although experientially it does seem to us that we chose Him, that just lets you know how easy it is for God to put His will in you. (Joh.15:19) If ye were of the world, the world would love its own: but because ye are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. You see, not only did He choose us, but in effect, He didn't choose someone else. Out of the whole world, He chose us. Several years ago, I heard something that has really stayed with me. I was listening to a lady talking to her adopted son, and she was trying to explain this to him. She said, “Most moms and dads don't have much of a choice. They just have to settle for what they get. But we chose you; out of all that we knew, we chose you.” That's the way it is between God and us. He didn't just settle for what came along. God knows how this universe goes on the way it does, and He foreknows the end of it. He's the God (Rom.4:17) … who giveth life to the dead, and calleth the things that are not, as though they were. And He tells us, (Isa.46:9) … for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me; (10) declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done; saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure. He chose us and He put His will in us. He chose us for what we will be; He chose us for what we will become by the grace of God. It was not the will of man that caused us to come to Jesus, it was the will of God. Paul writes (Php.2:13) … it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. And He's been doing that since before our Christian beginning. (Joh.1:12) But as many as received him, to them gave he the right (The Greek word there is exousia and it means “authority.”) to become children of God, [even] to them that believe on his name. You need to have authority to become a child of God, and only God gives authority to everyone who believes on His name because faith is a gift of God. (Joh.1:13) Who were born, not of blood (Our new birth is not like the Israelites, who had to be born into a family who made them a part of the Covenant.), nor of the will of the flesh.... Now, nothing in our flesh causes us to come to God. (Rom.8:7) Because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be. Our flesh is the enemy of God, and you would never choose to come to God, especially when you were totally bound in sin. The only One who could set you free is Jesus. (Joh.8:36) If therefore the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. Back to (Joh.1:13) Who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. This choice to come to God was no part of man; it came from God. God put a holy choice in an unholy person. If we had gone on doing our own will, our will would have always led to sin and to never serving anyone else but ourselves. It was God who reached in from the outside and put a will in us to come to Him. Romans 9 is one of the most avoided chapters in the Bible because of all the false teaching coming from the pulpits. People read Romans 9 with their preconceived ideas from their religion, so they can't understand it. If you drop all that and just read what it says, you will be able to understand it. (Rom.9:6) But [it is] not as though the word of God hath come to nought. For they are not all Israel, that are of Israel (The same thing can be said about the Church.): (7) neither, because they are Abraham's seed, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. (8) That is, it is not the children of the flesh that are children of God; but the children of the promise are reckoned for a seed. (Rom.9:9) For this is a word of promise, According to this season will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. (10) And not only so; but Rebecca also having conceived by one, [even] by our father Isaac– (11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, 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) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. Before any of their works Jacob was chosen. The doctrine of Arminianism says that God foreknows the future, and He predestines according to what He foreknows is going to happen or what we will do in the future. This is ridiculous when you think about it. If it was foreknown to happen anyway, why would He have to predestine it? “Predestine” or “foreordain” are two translations of the same Greek word proorizo, which means “to decide the destiny before it comes; to ordain the destiny before it comes to pass.” It doesn't mean that God looked ahead and saw what was going to happen and who would do good. Salvation would have been by works. Truly, God already knows what's going to happen because He does not dwell in time. Jacob didn't always do good but God chose him for what He would make out of him. Remember, God speaks the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). (Rom.8:29) For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained (or “predestined”) [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. That means those whom He knew before the creation, He ordained at that point, so it's not because of their works. It's not based on whether they had done anything good or bad as we just saw. I did a diligent search when I first discovered this in the Scriptures. I decided I was going to be open-minded, and I was going to see what the Bible really had to say about the subject. I wanted to see why God chose me. So I searched and I searched for the reason why God chose me above someone else and I found out, (Eph.2:3) Among whom we also all once lived in the lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. You see, there is no reason, physically speaking, why God would choose one person over another. I discovered that one “dirt” is just as good as the next “dirt.” It's not the dirt that counts; it's what you are sowing in it. God is interested in creating the spiritual man, which has nothing to do with your old life. The new life is born-again from above and that's the spiritual man. The spiritual man, who is created in the likeness of Christ, is born of the Word. He's born from above and has nothing to do with the old nature. I was looking for a reason why God would choose me above someone else and found there is no reason. (Rom.9:21) Or hath not the potter a right over the clay, from the same lump to make one part a vessel unto honor, and another unto dishonor? God claims the right to make whatever vessel He wants out of this same lump of clay. That means there was no difference in our natural life that caused God to choose us above anybody else. (Rom.9:14) 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 have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. (16) So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that hath mercy. After we are born again, I think God spends a lot of time teaching us that it's not by our willpower. We try to save ourselves by our willpower and it doesn't work. We eventually learn that we are to walk by faith, or we won't receive what we're looking for. Some people think grace starts after you choose God, but it starts before you choose God. Otherwise, you wouldn't choose God. (Eph.2:8) For by grace (This is the Greek word charis and it means “unmerited [or unearned] favor.”) have ye been saved.... It's not that you are saved but that you have been saved. The ancient manuscripts and the Numeric text both say this, but the KJV says, “are saved.” No, you were saved, and it was by grace. (Eph.2:8) For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God. So, since we were saved by grace and it's a gift of God, that doesn't give us a reason to look down on anyone else, does it? And it doesn't give us a reason to condemn anyone in the world. It's strictly a gift from God and this gift is given to us (Eph.2:5) Even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.... When Christ was resurrected is when He “made us alive together with Christ.” (5) … (by grace have ye been saved), (6) and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly [places,] in Christ Jesus: (7) that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus (And now, we are the benefactors of this grace that was given in Christ 2,000 years ago. The people who were saved, were saved 2,000 years ago. People who are manifesting salvation now were saved then.): (8) For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; (9) not of works, that no man should glory. Nobody will be able to brag about this salvation. We are depending upon God now as much as we were then. We have to cry out to God to give us grace to be obedient and to serve Him. He says in (Joh.15:4) Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; so neither can ye, except ye abide in me. (5) I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for apart from me ye can do nothing. (10) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that we should walk in them. God prepared the works of His Chosen. God wrote your name in the Book of Life from before the foundation of the world (Psalm 69:28; Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5; 13:8; 20:12). Manifestly, it's being written in the Book of Life when you come to God, but your name was written from before the foundation of the world, just as God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” (Eph.1:4) Even as he chose (This is the Greek verb eklego of the noun eklektos and it means “I pick out for myself, choose, elect, select.”) us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love. God chose us in Him and that means He didn't choose all. Some of you are probably asking, “But what about the ‘calling'?” I was told that God's call goes out to the whole earth to bring people to Christ. Well, that's just not true. I looked up every verse in the New Testament about “calling,” and that word is not used that way at all. (2Ti.1:9) Who saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before times eternal. Notice it says here, “who saved us, and called us.” According to the doctrines of most religions, we are called and then saved; however, this invitation is to Christians only. The Greek word for “called” here is kaleo and it means “invitation.” We see in the parables of Jesus that only His people are kaleo, or “invited,” to partake of the Marriage Feast (Matthew 22:1-14; Revelation 19:9). Every place in the Bible where the word kaleo is used, everyone who was called came to Christ. They were already a Christian. When we go out and call (or invite) people through the Gospel to come to Christ, some accept and some don't, and we're finding out that those who accept are those who have His calling and the others do not. (Eph.1:18) Having the eyes of your heart enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. So He saved us, then He called us and we're going to see that all the called are not necessarily going to be chosen, but all the elect will be chosen. (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen. The word “chosen” there is the same Greek word used above; it's the word eklektos, and it means “elect.” The difference between the called and the elect is that all of the elect are called, but not all of the called are the elect. Those who are saved have an invitation to partake of all of Jesus. As Christians, we are called to partake of His body and blood, which is His nature, His character and His power. The world cannot partake of that invitation; it's not even extended to them because this invitation is a Covenant offering. (Rom.10:20) And Isaiah is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I became manifest unto them that asked not of me. That shows the power of God because we did not seek Him. That shows we were not seeking Him when we found Him. It was Jesus Who came for His lost sheep. (Luk.19:10) For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost. We were the lost sheep. Think about the conversion of Apostle Paul on the Damascus road (Acts 9:1-30), You say, “God can save anybody!” God went to extremes in order to make Paul His child and His emissary to the world. Truly, God can save anybody He wants to, and He will. We didn't seek Him and the Gentiles didn't seek Him. (1Co.4:6) Now these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes; that in us ye might learn not [to go] beyond the things which are written; that no one of you be puffed up for the one against the other. (7) For who maketh thee to differ? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? but if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory as if thou hadst not received it? Why should we be puffed up about our salvation? What do we have that we didn't receive? Nothing. We think that we chose Christ. Some people look upon the lost and wonder why they cannot understand what's being said. They're thinking, “Why won't the lost be reasonable?” In a way, they're condemning the lost because they don't realize that only by the grace and mercy of God did they receive what they have. When you understand that you can't convert anybody by your works, you know to first go to God. By your works, you can fill up churches, but you can't convert anybody that way. Salvation is a gift from God. (Rom.11:35) Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? Everything comes from Him. There is nothing that God is ever going to owe anybody. (36) For of him, and through him, and unto him, are all things. To him [be] the glory for ever. Amen. Everything came from Him and everything is going back to Him. It didn't come from us and this takes away all room for pride. The first choice we made for God, the first desire we had for God, didn't come from us. It came from Him, and He can put that in anyone. This takes away all reason for pride because it's totally, 100% by God's grace. A good example is (Psa.65:4) Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach [unto thee,] That he may dwell in thy courts.... The choice comes from God first. He causes us to approach unto Him and dwell in His courts. Salvation from the curse in every form has already been given to us by faith. We need to pray to God to give us the grace to be what we need to be. (Joh.10:16) And other sheep I have which are not of this fold: them also I must bring (Notice that Jesus is talking about doing this in the future. These sheep weren't saved yet because He said, “I must bring.”), and they shall hear my voice: and they shall become one flock, one shepherd. In the days ahead, we are going to see that one flock and one shepherd, but when we study Ezekiel 34, we find that the Lord talks about how His flock was spoiled by shepherds who were doing their own will. (Eze.34:2) Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel (a type of the Church), prophesy, and say unto them, even to the shepherds, Thus saith the Lord God: Woe unto the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the sheep? (3) Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill the fatlings; but ye feed not the sheep. (4) The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought back that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with rigor have ye ruled over them. The Lord says that He is going to take all those fruitless shepherds away, and He, Himself, has promised to personally be the Shepherd of His flock. (Eze.34:11) For thus saith the Lord God: Behold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. (12) As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered abroad, so will I seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. (13) And I will bring them out from the peoples, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them into their own land; and I will feed them upon the mountains of Israel, by the watercourses, and in all the inhabited places of the country. (14) I will feed them with good pasture; and upon the mountains of the height of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie down in a good fold; and on fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. (15) I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God. (16) I will seek that which was lost, and will bring back that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but the fat and the strong I will destroy; I will feed them in justice. So, the Lord is going to have physical shepherds to do this. They will be men who are vessels through whom the Spirit of the Lord is going to flow, and they will not be doing their own will. In that way, God is going to have one flock and one shepherd. But the point I want you to see here is that when Jesus says, “Other sheep I have which are not of this fold,” these are people in the future who are going to come because they were given to Him back then; you belonged to Jesus back then. (2Ti.1:9) Who saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before times eternal. Some people think, “Okay, I'm predestined and there's nothing I have to worry about. I can just sit back and take it easy.” They are justifying their doctrine of “once saved, always saved.” They don't understand that God has methods to predestine. He uses those methods to predestine, and if you ignore His methods, you will not be predestined. Calvin and Luther, the people who made predestination famous, were accused of believing “once saved, always saved,” but that's not what they believed. They taught God's methods of predestination and here's one of them: Jesus said, (Joh.10:26) But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep. The people who didn't believe Jesus were not His sheep. (27) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.... Jesus' sheep have ears to hear. They hear and they follow, and the rest do not. If you teach only what Jesus taught, you will be able to recognize those who are His sheep and those who are not. Those who do not hear are the self-willed. They're going to be like the son of perdition who sits in the temple of God. (2Th.2:3) Let no man beguile you in any wise: for [it will not be,] except the falling away come first, and the man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition, (4) he that opposeth and exalteth himself against all that is called God or that is worshipped; so that he sitteth in the temple of God, setting himself forth as God. He is his own God for he does his own will. We've seen that here with the Unleavened Bread Bible Studies. Some people have their own ideas and as long as we adhered to the Scriptures, they just left, which needed to happen. If it wasn't that way, a little leaven would leaven the whole lump (1 Corinthians 5:6; Galatians 5:9). Jesus said, (Luk.12:51) Think ye that I am come to give peace in the earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division. And the way He came to bring division was to use the Word like a sword. (Eph.6:17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And so He says, (Joh.10:27) 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, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. You probably recognize that verse the “once saved, always saved” crowd uses to justify their doctrine, but Jesus is talking about His sheep. “No one shall snatch them out of my hand” and no one can snatch them out of His hand. These are the elect; they are the chosen of God. It's not possible for them to be snatched out His hand because they hear and they follow. (Jas.1:18) Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. By His will, not our will, He brought us forth by the Word of truth. His method is to give you the gift of ears to hear the Word of truth (Deuteronomy 29:4; Matthew 13:15; Romans 11:8; etc.) In the latter days of Israel, having ears to hear is what separated those Israelites who were going into the New Testament from those who would not. And in these latter days of the Gentile Church, having ears to hear is once again separating between those who are going to go on with God and those who do not belong to God. Those who are not part of the elect are going to be drawn aside. (Joh.8:31) Jesus therefore said to those Jews that had believed him ... (43) Why do ye not understand my speech? It's amazing to me how sometimes people just can't understand you when you are saying something very simple, but if they have ears to hear, they understand, and if they don't have ears to hear, they can't understand. Now, sometimes, because of someone's age in the Lord, their understanding may not be very deep; however, anyone who knows God should be able to understand the basic principles. (Joh.8:43) Why do ye not understand my speech? [Even] because ye cannot hear my word. They didn't have the gift of ears to hear. (44) Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do.... I've learned that most people have a blockage for why they don't hear. I know because it's happened to me when I was young and had a false doctrine. To the extent that someone clings to a pet doctrine, to that extent they won't hear and they won't believe anything that challenges their doctrine. Then also there can be a bigger blockage. (47) He that is of God heareth the words of God: for this cause ye hear [them] not, because ye are not of God. That's how God divides between the sheep. People who don't hear the Word of God, people who don't put the Word of God before their own thinking and their own religion, they are not of God. That's how Jesus discovered who was of God, and it's still the same today. Jesus says in (Joh.13:17) If ye know these things, blessed are ye if ye do them. (18) I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen (This is again the Greek eklego, which is the verb of the noun eklektos, and it means “I pick out for myself; choose, elect.”): but that the scripture may be fulfilled: He that eateth my bread lifted up his heel against me. Jesus knew whom He had chosen, and He knew Judas was going to fall away. Judas was “called,” kaleo, but he was not “elect,” eklektos. (Joh.6:70) Jesus answered them, Did not I choose you the twelve, and one of you is a devil? (71) Now he spake of Judas [the son] of Simon Iscariot, for he it was that should betray him, [being] one of the twelve. Jesus understood that Judas was a son of the devil, yet He chose him to walk among the 12. (Joh.13:18) I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen.... He went on to explain that He was not speaking of Judas, who never had ears to hear. (Joh.6:63) It is the spirit that giveth life; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I have spoken unto you are spirit, and 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 it was that should betray him. (65) And he said, For this cause have I said unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it be given unto him of the Father. Let me point out to you that it's not who receives the call and starts out with you who is chosen; it's who is still with you at the end. (2Jn.7) For many deceivers are gone forth into the world.... John is talking about leaving Christianity. (1Jn.2:18) Little children, it is the last hour: and as ye heard that antichrist cometh, even now have there arisen many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last hour. (19) They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us: but [they went out,] that they might be made manifest that they all are not of us. “They” here is referring to antichrists. The Beast is antichrist in the world, but antichrist in the Church is this son of perdition. (2Jn.7) For many deceivers are gone forth into the world, [even] they that confess not that Jesus Christ cometh in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. (8) Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which we have wrought, but that ye receive a full reward. (9) Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son. So it's not “he who began with you” who is chosen; it's “he that abideth in the teaching.” Some people say they love the Word and seem very eager to study the Word, but there comes a point where they decide not to go any deeper, usually because it comes against their flesh. You know, lost people like knowledge. They like knowing things that other people don't know because it gives them a reason to be puffed up. The son of perdition likes knowledge, but when it comes to knowledge that demands a change in their life, that's where those people start filtering out, as the Bible says: (1Jn.2:19) They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us: but [they went out,] that they might be made manifest that they all are not of us. (2Jn.9) Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son. “He that abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God.” This is saying you have to be obedient to have the Father and the Son. Antichrist are those who go out from among you and are denying the Father and the Son because they are not obedient to the Word. Remember that Jesus said, (Joh.14:15) If ye love me, ye will keep my commandments. (23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. That's not a promise to those who are disobedient or to those who start out and don't finish the course. That's a promise to those who endure until the end. (Mat.24:13) But he that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved. (1Co.1:23) But we preach Christ crucified, unto Jews a stumblingblock, and unto Gentiles foolishness; (24) but unto them that are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. People who are called understand the wisdom of the Gospel, but to the rest, it's foolishness and a stumblingblock. You may preach the Gospel to somebody today, and they won't come, but they might come later on because the right foundation was finally laid and the right timing has finally come. Just because someone doesn't accept the Gospel today doesn't mean that they're forever lost but only the called are going to come. Only the called have salvation. A good example of that is, (26) For behold your calling, brethren, that not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called:].... It's not many who are called to begin with. The calling is not to all. The calling is internal; the calling is a gift from God to those who are saved. The Bible never says all are called. Everything in this world was created for the purpose of manifesting sons of God and everything that Paul did was toward that purpose. He said in (2Ti.2:10) Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sake, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. God called His Son out of Egypt (Hosea 11:1), but then He tried Him in the wilderness to find out who was going to go on to the Promised Land. Those who went on into the Promised Land were God's elect. His whole purpose was for the elect, not for those who fell away in the wilderness. You see, God's grace has been given to all those who are called, but it's the elect among the called who are going to take advantage of it and that's the difference. Paul dealt with many, but everything he did was for the few, the elect. God used Paul to fulfill His purpose. (Joh.6:37) All that which the Father giveth me shall come unto me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. You will know those who the Father gave to Jesus because they shall come to Jesus. This is very interesting because the phrase “come to me” is used many places in Scripture. Jesus told the Jews in (Joh.5:39) Ye search the scriptures, because ye think that in them ye have eternal life; and these are they which bear witness of me; (40) and ye will not come to me, that ye may have life. That was obvious about most of the Jews then, who totally rejected everything that Jesus said. And it's obvious about those people today who reject everything that Jesus said, but did you know that some of those people who walked with Jesus, even as disciples, wouldn't come to Him? (Joh.6:66) Upon this many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Notice: 666. Only Father can cause a person to come to Jesus: (Joh.6:39) And this is the will of him that sent me, that of all that which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. (40) For this is the will of my Father, that every one that beholdeth the Son, and believeth on him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. (44) No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him: and I will raise him up in the last day. It's not possible for anyone to come unto Jesus, except the Father draws them. It is possible for them to come to church and to believe many doctrines. They can go to an altar and accept Jesus as their Savior, even though we don't see anything in the Scriptures about that. But people will not come unto Jesus unless they are drawn by God.
Defenders: Doctrine of Salvation (Part 4): Arminianism Continued
Can you lose your salvation? In this episode of Ask Dr. E, Dr. Michael Easley answers one of the most common (and often most anxiety-filled) questions Christians ask. Dr. E walks through key Scriptures, the history behind Arminianism and Calvinism, the Synod of Dort, the TULIP debate, and the difference between eternal security and assurance of salvation.If you've wrestled with doubt, struggled with confusing passages like Hebrews 6, or wondered how sin affects your walk with Christ, this episode brings biblical clarity anchored in the finished work of Jesus. Key Topics Covered -Eternal security vs. assurance of salvation -Arminianism vs. Calvinism explained -The Synod of Dort and TULIP -What Scripture says about salvation and sealing -The role of the Trinity in salvation -Understanding Hebrews 6 and “warning passages” -Can a Christian live in sin and still be saved? Chapters 00:00 – Can You Lose Your Salvation? 00:42 – Why This Question Matters 01:10 – Arminianism vs. Calvinism (Quick Overview) 02:00 – Election, Grace, and the TULIP Debate 03:10 – Eternal Security vs. Assurance 04:00 – What the Father, Son & Spirit Each Do in Salvation 04:50 – Key Scriptures on Eternal Security 06:15 – Misused Passages: 2 Peter & Proverbs 06:45 – The Hebrews 6 Debate 08:10 – Can Sin Make You Lose Salvation? 09:20 – Fruit, Works, and Spiritual Maturity 11:00 – What About Christians Living in Sin? 13:00 – Why We Can't Judge Another's Salvation 14:10 – Final Encouragement & Next Week's Question Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
Defenders: Doctrine of Salvation (Part 3): Regeneration and Arminianism
Allie delivers a clear, balanced primer on Calvinism by unpacking the terminology of total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints. Is Calvinistic theology a fatalistic puppetry or biblical sovereignty that magnifies God's glory? She traces its Reformation roots, American influence, and modern perception, while honestly addressing prideful “cage-stage” pitfalls. Whether you're Reformed, Arminian, or just curious, this episode equips you to understand one of Christianity's most debated (and misunderstood) theological frameworks. Buy Allie's book "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": https://www.toxicempathy.com --- Timecodes: (00:00) Introduction (02:00) Calvinism's Controversy (13:50) The History of Calvinism (17:15) T.U.L.I.P. (28:20) John Calvin's Influence (35:25) Calvinism in America (39:55) Predestination (50:35) Opposition to Calvinism (54:45) Arminianism (01:02:35) Calvinism Today --- Today's Sponsors: Good Ranchers — Give a reason to gather. Visit goodranchers.com to start gifting, and while you're there, treat yourself with your own subscription to America's best meat. And when you use the code ALLIE, you'll get $40 off your first order. Jase — Check out the Jase Mini first aid kit. It's a high-quality, thoughtful gift that shows you value their health and wellbeing. Enter promo code ALLIE at checkout for a discount on your order when you visit jase.com. Patriot Mobile — Switching to Patriot Mobile is easier than ever. Activate in minutes from your home or office. Keep your number, keep your phone, or upgrade. Go to patriotmobile.com/allie or call 972-PATRIOT, and use promo code ALLIE for a free month of service! PreBorn — Would you consider a gift to save babies in a big way? Your gift will be used to save countless babies for years to come. To donate, dial #250 and say the keyword BABY or donate securely at preborn.com/allie. Keksi — Give a gift that won't get regifted! Keksi's gourmet cookies ship nationwide, but order before the December 15th Christmas cutoff. Use code ALLIE15 for 15% off standard cookie boxes at keksi.com. Shopify — Go to shopify.com/allie to get started with your own design studio to turn your big business idea into profit. Sign up for your $1-per-month trial and start selling with Shopify today! --- Episodes you might like: Ep 1249 | He Shared the Gospel with Joe Rogan. Here's What Else He'd Say | Chadd Wright https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098?i=1000729976880 Ep 1218 | Why John MacArthur's 56-Year Ministry Shook the World https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1218-why-john-macarthurs-56-year-ministry-shook-the-world/id1359249098?i=1000717561591 Ep 1211 | Israel: What Should Christians Think? And an Announcement https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1211-israel-what-should-christians-think-and/id1359249098?i=1000714714917 Ep 746 | Crowder vs. DW, Predestination & the Importance of Shame | Q&A https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-746-crowder-vs-dw-predestination-the-importance/id1359249098?i=1000596804203 --- Buy Allie's book "You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love": https://www.alliebethstuckey.com Relatable merchandise: Use promo code ALLIE10 for a discount: https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Questions Answered
In this sobering and soul-searching message, Pastor Karl dives deep into Matthew 5:17–48, where Jesus declares that He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it—and then raises the bar of righteousness far beyond anything the scribes and Pharisees ever imagined.Through six piercing examples—anger that murders the heart, lust that commits adultery in the mind, casual divorce, manipulative oaths, retaliation, and hatred disguised as justice—Jesus exposes the truth we all try to avoid: outward obedience is never enough. God judges the heart. Every single one of us stands guilty before His perfect standard.Yet the bad news is meant to drive us to the best news. Pastor Karl powerfully unpacks how Jesus' command in verse 48—“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect”—is not a cruel impossible demand, but the very reason the Son of God came. We cannot achieve the righteousness God requires, so God freely gives it to us through faith in Christ. Jesus took our unrighteousness and imputes His perfect righteousness to all who repent and trust Him.A hard-hitting, heart-exposing sermon that leaves no room for self-righteousness, but ends with the liberating joy of the gospel: guilty sinners can be clothed in the very righteousness of God and stand before Him as if we had never sinned. Essential listening for anyone who wonders, “How can I ever be right with a holy God?”Watch all our sermons on our youtube channel "Flipside Christian Church"Join us in person 9:00am & 10:30am every Sunday morning.37193 Ave 12 #3h, Madera, CA 93636For more visit us at flipside.churchFor more podcasts visit flipsidepodcasts.transistor.fm
Questions Answered
Questions Answered
1:43 How do we refute pro-choice advocates that use Exodus as a proof text?5:06 When there is a discrepancy between the Septuagint and the Hebrew text, which takes precedence?13:42 How do I talk to someone who is in the orthodox church and relies on the traditions over Scripture?22:06 What are your thoughts on Pentecostal churches?27:34 What is a fair representation of Romans 3 regarding Calvinism vs Arminianism?42:45 Will I see my loved ones in heaven and will we still be a family?46:35 Do I need to get baptized again if I have sinned egregiously and repented?49:00 Who is saved from previous generations who had less knowledge of God?50:50 What will my status be during the Millennium?Topics: Pro-Choice, Abortion, Septuagint, Orthodox Church, Traditions, Pentecostal, Calvinism, Arminianism, Heaven, Baptism, Salvation, Millennium, Rapture To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.lightsource.com/donate/865/29
Calvinism vs. Arminianism — two doctrines that shape how churches understand salvation. But what do they each believe? And more importantly… what's biblical? Join us as I share our journey into and out of Calvinism. This condensed version comes from our Romans Lesson 23. Here is the link for the entire lesson • IS CHURCH DOCTRINE Replacing THE BIBLE? . ... if you would like to watch it.
Calvinism vs. Arminianism — two doctrines that shape how churches understand salvation. But what do they each believe? And more importantly… what's biblical? Join us as I share our journey into and out of Calvinism. This condensed version comes from our Romans Lesson 23. Here is the link for the entire lesson • IS CHURCH DOCTRINE Replacing THE BIBLE? . ... if you would like to watch it.
Send us a textThe beloved hymn Rock Of Ages by Augustus M. Toplady was published in the late 1700s and came out of England. The hymn itself is still popular and sung worldwide, all these years later. While the hymns is well-known, some of the backstory and context surrounding Mr. Toplady is not. Toplady and evangelist John Wesley had a very public feud over something that is still being debated today: Calvinism vs. Arminianism. Toplady as a Calvinist had strong disagreements with Wesley's views and how much Wesley was influencing the Church of England. Today's podcast goes into this rift between these two men and the beautiful song that was written in the midst of it all: Rock Of Ages. Rock Of Ages CoverDerek's Hymns Playlist On YouTube
Is God sovereign in salvation, or is man responsible? This is one of the most asked questions in theology. In this episode, we dive into Scripture to answer whether Calvinism or Arminianism is correct.We explore key passages like John 3, John 6, Romans 9-10, and Matthew 11 to show how God's sovereignty and human responsibility are both clearly taught in Scripture. You'll learn:✅ What hyper-Calvinism gets wrong ✅ Why human responsibility matters for evangelism ✅ How election and "whosoever believes" work together ✅ What an antinomy is (and why it's not a paradox) ✅ How to answer "Am I one of the elect?"Whether you're wrestling with predestination, struggling with evangelism, or just want to understand what the Bible actually teaches about salvation, this conversation will ground you in Scripture.SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: John 3:3-7, 16 | John 6:37-47 | Romans 8:29-30 | Romans 9:15-18 | Romans 10:9-17 | Matthew 11:27-28 | Ephesians 1:4-11 | Ephesians 2:1-10
DOING LIFE: Daily Devotions For Finding Peace in Stressful Times
Five Point Calvinism or Arminianism? Both believe Jesus does the Saving and the Holy Spirit calls us to faith!
In this episode of the Jesus Everyday Podcast, Ethan Callison, Ken Nienke, and Andrew McPheron walk through one of Jesus' most difficult teachings: “Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you have no life in you” (John 6:53).This passage caused the Jews to grumble, dispute, and even walk away from Jesus. But what does it really mean? Is Jesus speaking literally, symbolically, or pointing to something deeper?
Today, former Navy SEAL Chadd Wright shares his powerful testimony of sharing the gospel on "The Joe Rogan Experience" and his journey to embracing God's sovereignty in salvation. We dive into Calvinism vs. Arminianism, convert vs. disciple, and we debate his retreat from politics. Join us for a bold, biblically rich discussion on faith, repentance, and living confidently in Christ's grace, rejecting man-centered gospels for God's glory. Check out Chadd Wright's website 3 of 7 Project here: www.3of7project.com Share the Arrows 2025 is on October 11 in Dallas, Texas! Go to http://sharethearrows.com for tickets now! Sponsored by: Carly Jean Los Angeles: https://www.carlyjeanlosangeles.com Good Ranchers: https://www.goodranchers.com EveryLife: https://www.everylife.com Buy Allie's new book, "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": https://www.toxicempathy.com/ --- Timecodes: (00:00) Introduction (05:30) Sharing the Gospel to Joe Rogan (15:45) Discussing Predestination (27:00) Chadd's Testimony (36:50) The Gift of Faith (44:00) Current State of American Evangelism (51:20) Why Chadd Abandoned Politics --- Today's Sponsors: A'del — Try A'del's hand-crafted, artisan, small-batch cosmetics and use promo code ALLIE 25% off your first time purchase at https://AdelNaturalCosmetics.com We Heart Nutrition — Get 20% off women's vitamins with We Heart Nutrition, and get your first bottle of their new supplement, Wholesome Balance; use code ALLIE at https://www.WeHeartNutrition.com. Patriot Mobile — go to PatriotMobile.com/ALLIE or call 972-PATRIOT and use promo code 'ALLIE' for a free month of service! Constitution Wealth Management — Let's discover what faithful stewardship looks like in your life. Visit Constitutionwealth.com/Allie for a free consultation. Concerned Women for America — For a donation of $20 or more, you will get a copy of their new book, written by the CEO and President, Penny Nance, A Woman's Guide, Seven Rules for Success in Business and Life. Go to ConcernedWomen.org/Allie for your copy today. --- Episodes you might like: Ep 1009 | Willie Robertson on Sharing the Gospel | Guest: Willie Robertson https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1009-how-to-share-the-gospel-with-confidence/id1359249098?i=1000657074826 Ep 1138 | Sharing the Gospel with Joe Rogan | Guest: Wes Huff https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1138-sharing-the-gospel-with-joe-rogan-guest-wes-huff/id1359249098?i=1000691204214 Ep 1216 | Can Catholics Claim the One True Church? | Lila Rose https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-1216-can-catholics-claim-the-one-true-church-lila-rose/id1359249098?i=1000716862468 --- Buy Allie's book, You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love: https://alliebethstuckey.com/book Relatable merchandise – use promo code 'ALLIE10' for a discount: https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
••• The Secret of Grace, Segment-2 of 2, Ep 400b . ••• Bible Study Verses: Ephesians 4:7-15, Hebrews 4:16, Daniel 11:32, Hebrews 5:12, Hebrews 10:25, James 1.25 . ••• PART-A's VERSES: 2 Peter 3:1-18, Romans 6:1-2, Romans 3.23, 1 Corinthians 1.10 . ••• “Bear up the hands that hang down, by faith and prayer; support the tottering knees. Have you any days of fasting and prayer? Storm the throne of grace and persevere therein, and mercy will come down" John Wesley 1703-1791 † ••• “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ", Ephesians 4:7, KJV . ••• What are the 3-reasons why is it necessary for the believers to grow in grace? ••• What are the 4-benefits of growing in grace? STOPPED AT t16••• What are the 5-life actions to growing in grace?••• Are you going to ask your small group to pray that you will be more intentional about growing in grace of God through the power of Holy Spirit? ••• PART-A BIBLE STUDY QUESTIONS: What are at least 3-aspects of growing in grace? ••• How should the knowledge of the death, resurrection and return of the Lord Jesus Christ affect the way we live our lives?••• Pastor Otuno expounds on this and much more on the exciting journey of Fresh Encounter Radio Podcast originally aired on October 25, 2025 on WNQM, Nashville Quality Ministries and WWCR World Wide Christian Radio broadcast to all 7-continents on this big beautiful blue marble, earth, floating through space. Please be prayerful before studying The Word of God so that you will receive the most inspiration possible. ••• This Discipleship Teaching Podcast is brought to you by Christian Leadership International and all the beloved of God who believe in its mission through prayer and support. Thank you . ••• Broadcaster's Website - https://www.lifelonganointing.com/ . ••• Exceeding Thanks to Universe Creator Christ Jesus AND photo by Stacey Franco, https://www.instagram.com/staceyfranc0/, on unsplash, Art Direction by gil on his mac with free mac layout software . ••• Study Guides at - https://shows.acast.com/fresh-encounter-radio-podcast/episodes . ••• SHARING LINK: https://shows.acast.com/fresh-encounter-radio-podcast/250927-the-secret-behind-the-believers-dominion-p8-s2-ep400b . ••• † http://christian-quotes.ochristian.com/John-Wesley-Quotes/ . John Wesley was an Anglican cleric and Christian theologian. Wesley is largely credited, along with his brother Charles Wesley, with founding the Methodist movement which began when he took to open-air preaching in a similar manner to George Whitefield. In contrast to George Whitefield's Calvinism (which later led to the forming of the Calvinistic Methodists), Wesley embraced Arminianism. Methodism in both forms was a highly successful evangelical movement in the United Kingdom, which encouraged people to experience Christ personally. Wesley believed that this doctrine should be constantly preached, especially among the people called Methodists. In fact, he contended that the purpose of the Methodist movement was to "spread scriptural holiness across England." Throughout his life, Wesley remained within the Church of England and insisted that his movement was well within the bounds of the Anglican tradition. His maverick use of church policy put him at odds with many within the Church of England, though toward the end of his life he was widely respected . ••• RESOURCE - https://www.soundcloud.com/thewaytogod/ . ••• RESOURCE - https://www.biblegateway.com/audio/mclean/kjv/john.1%20 .••• FERP250927-Episode#400b GOT250927 Ep400b . ••• The Secret Behind the Believers Dominion, Part-8b: The Secret of Grace, Segment-2 .Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/fresh-encounter-radio-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send us a textWhat happens when biblical conviction creates division within our closest relationships? This raw, powerful conversation explores the painful reality many Christians face when standing firm in theological truth.The discussion opens with a sobering reminder that Jesus didn't come to bring peace but a sword—warning believers that our greatest spiritual battles often happen within our own households. Participants share personal stories of family members who actively avoid biblical discussions, in-laws who defer to priests rather than engage with scripture, and the loneliness that comes from refusing to compromise God's truth.A crucial distinction emerges between rejecting false theological systems and rejecting individuals caught within them. While the group firmly identifies doctrines like Arminianism and Roman Catholicism as fundamentally false, they emphasize that people exist at different stages of spiritual growth. Christians must remain steadfast gatekeepers of truth, refusing to tolerate even the smallest compromise, while recognizing God's sovereignty in drawing people to genuine faith.Perhaps most powerful is the testimony of reconciliation with a mother before her death from brain cancer. Rather than confrontational evangelism, it was the fruit of love, service and forgiveness that ultimately made spiritual impact—proving that Christian love manifests through both words and actions.The conversation culminates in a radical redefinition of family. "Your family is not your family," one participant boldly states, pointing instead to the spiritual bond between believers. In Christ, we become a new creation, relating to one another not through blood but through shared faith in absolute truth.How might your relationships change if you prioritized biblical truth over social comfort? What happens when we stop compromising to please others and fully embrace our role as watchmen for God's word?The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
Send us a textGrace may seem like a simple concept on the surface, but it's arguably the most misunderstood doctrine in all of Scripture. This provocative conversation dives deep into what God's grace truly means and the radical implications that flow from it.At the heart of nearly every theological dispute lies confusion about grace. When properly understood, grace doesn't just inform our theology—it transforms it completely. This discussion examines how your understanding of grace reveals whether your foundational theology aligns more with Arminianism or Calvinism, regardless of denominational labels.Through a thoughtful panel conversation, we explore grace as unmerited favor, divine power, liberating force, and God's sovereign work. Each participant brings unique insights: grace as Christ himself, God's enabling power that makes the impossible possible, the source of our liberty from sin's bondage, and the means by which we receive what we could never deserve.But perhaps the most challenging question emerges when we ask: if everyone received God's favor equally, would it still be favor? The answer forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about sovereignty, election, and the nature of salvation itself. This isn't just theological hairsplitting—it's about understanding the magnificent depths of how God saves sinners.Whether you're well-versed in doctrinal discussions or just beginning to explore deeper theological waters, this conversation will challenge assumptions and illuminate what makes grace truly amazing. Listen, reflect, and discover why grace would not be grace if it operated any other way than God designed.The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
Calvinism vs Arminianism? Chris Westbrook August 31th, 2025
Am I allowed to play poker? What do you think of the Jewish roots movement? I've heard that we are grafted into Israel by keeping the Torah. What do you think of the “tulip” of Calvinism? What about Arminianism? My dad is an atheist, and keeps asking me about God, Satan, and the problem of evil in this world. What can I do? Will Jesus return once or twice? I'm taking a new job where they value diversity. What should I do?
Steve discusses FBI Director Kash Patel's revelation that the raid on Trump's Mar-a-Lago was "not lawful" and says that if something isn't lawful, it's against the law, which means people should be arrested. Then, the team continues studying Romans 9, this time focusing on the aspect of God's sovereignty, Arminianism, and Calvinism. Finally, Ana Hibbs joins the show to report on what's trending with Gen Z. TODAY'S SPONSORS: CONSTITUTION WEALTH MANAGEMENT: https://constitutionwealth.com/Blaze RELIEF FACTOR: VISIT https://www.relieffactor.com/ OR CALL 800-4-RELIEF JASE MEDICAL: https://jasemedical.com/ and enter code “DEACE” at checkout for a discount on your order BEAM: https://shopbeam.com/products/sleep-powder?discount=steve&variant=40436356710455&selling_plan=787415095&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sponsorship&utm_campaign=steve and use code STEVE at checkout MOXIE PEST SERVICES: Visit https://moxieservices.com/steve/ and use promo code STEVE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode, Luke has a conversation with Dr. Jeffrey Koperski to discuss Foreknowledge, Determinism, Free-Will, Compatbilism, and basically everything related to Calvinism and Arminianism! Dr. Koperski (PhD) is a professor at Saginaw Valley State University. He is the author of "The Physics of Theism: God, Physics, and the Philosophy of Science" (https://amzn.to/455y9VE) and "Divine Action, Determinism, and the Laws of Nature" (https://amzn.to/3TZvzLT) as well as numerous scholarly articles which can be found here: https://svsu.academia.edu/JeffreyKoperski You can also find him on X: https://x.com/jeffkoperski ❇️ Recommended John Wimber Books ❇️ "Power Healing," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2HiA3YV) "Power Evangelism,' by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2TP6Nyd) "Power Points," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/31NwqSC) "Everyone Gets to Play," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2Z4PJdf) "The Way In is the Way On," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2ZdiTCg) ❇️ Recommended Books ABOUT John Wimber ❇️ "John Wimber: The Way it Was," by Carol Wimber (https://amzn.to/2HiUFQJ) "Never Trust a Leader Without a Limp: The Wit and Wisdom of John Wimber," by Glenn Schroder (https://amzn.to/3PtHvSM) "Worshiping with the Anaheim Vineyard: The Emergence of Contemporary Worship," by Andy Park, Lester Ruth, & Cindy Rethmeier (https://amzn.to/31TDm0w) "Toronto in Perspective: Papers on the New Charismatic Wave of the 1990s," edited by David Hilborn (https://amzn.to/2L3nIsP) "John Wimber: His Influence & Legacy," edited by David Pytches (https://amzn.to/2ZfgbfC) || FOLLOW US || Website: https://sacramentalcharismatic.substack.com Luke IG: https://instagram.com/lukegeraty Luke Twitter: https://twitter.com/lukegeraty Wes IG: https://www.instagram.com/wesmac5 Wes Twitter: https://twitter.com/wesmac5 SUPPORT US BY SUBSCRIBING AND CONSIDERING BECOMING A PAID SUBSCRIBER!
This GraceNotes episode begins a series of messages on the assurance of salvation. This is such an important subject because so many people struggle with doubts about their salvation. In this episode, from GraceNotes no. 73, we will see that Free Grace theology is the only theological perspective that can give a believer full assurance of salvation. Three alternate views are explained. First, Reformed Calvinism believes that the elect can be sure of their salvation, but the problem is, no one can be sure they are one of the elect until they die having persevered in their faith and obedience to the end of their life. Another theology, Arminianism, holds that a Christian can be sure of salvation if they are living obediently. However, they cannot be sure of future salvation because thatw obedience is not guaranteed. A third perspective can come from both theologies. It is Lordship Salvation, which teaches that we are saved by committing ourselves to Jesus as our Master, which is proven by our genuine faith, turning from sins, and our full commitment. However, since it is impossible to gauge these things, full assurance becomes unattainable. Free Grace is the only view that gives full assurance of salvation because it depends on God's work and performance, not the believer's. This view is the most biblical and allows for peace and confidence in the Christian's life.#AssuranceofSalvation#FreeGraceTheology#LordshipSalvation#SimplybyGrace
Calvinism. Arminianism. Election. Predestination. Even if these terms mean little to you, at some point you've probably wondered if God chooses some people to go to heaven and some people to go to hell. There are bible verses that might lead you to think so, and entire theologies have been built to explain whether humans really have free will or not. In today's edition of “You Asked For It,” pastor Dan answers the question that was submitted more times than any other: Is salvation my choice of God's? -- GIVE: Visit www.connectcalgary.ca/give to help share #LifeOverflowing across Canada.
We open up our new series diving into Romans chapter 9! We discuss some of the deeper perspective on an ongoing debate within our faith. Calvinism, Arminianism, personal address?
The sermon traces the decline of American Christianity, arguing it began in the early 1800s with the rise of Arminianism and its emphasis on man-centered salvation over God's sovereignty, leading to practices like emotional revivalism and the altar call. This shift, influenced by figures like Charles Finney and later exacerbated by secular philosophies and government-controlled education, fostered a dualistic worldview separating the sacred and secular and ultimately resulted in a diminished understanding of Christ's dominion over all of life. The speaker advocates for a return to reformed theology, rejecting these trends and embracing a holistic vision of Christ's kingdom advancing in all areas of society.
This was originally posted by @TruthfulHope and host Jacob Vazquez engages with Dr. Tim Stratton of @FreethinkingMinistries to explore significant theological issues surrounding free will, predestination, and the contrasting views of Calvinism, Arminianism, and Molinism. The conversation delves into the complexities of God's sovereignty and human freedom, highlighting the importance of understanding these concepts in the context of Christian faith. Tim shares his personal journey through various theological perspectives, ultimately arriving at Molinism, which emphasizes God's middle knowledge of all possible human choices. The discussion aims to clarify these intricate theological debates and their implications for believers. Tim Stratton and Jacob also delve into the complexities of libertarian freedom, divine sovereignty, and the theological implications of Molinism. They explore how these concepts relate to the problem of evil, predestination, and key biblical passages, using pop culture references like the Avengers to illustrate their points. The discussion emphasizes the importance of systematic theology in understanding scripture and the nuances of divine knowledge and human choice.
Join Pastor Shawn and the gang at Calvary Birmingham as they study the Bible verse by verse and chapter by chapter. In this episode, we continue our study in Luke with chapter 10.
Russ and Tim continue their discussion from a listener's email on theological questions, this one particularly on Calvinism versus Arminianism. Where do Tim and Russ land on it? What is the tulip? What do we do with hard-to-understand passages? And much more. Dive in below and SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS AND TOPICS THAT YOU WOULD LOVE FOR US TO DISCUSS!Subscribe to get the latest videos and live worship:https://www.youtube.com/xchurch Connect with X Church Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/theXchurch.ohInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/theX_church/ Helping people get on the path to God. This is the vision of X Church, led by Pastor Tim Moore and based in South East Columbus, OH _ Stay Connected Website: www.thex.church#theXchurch
Send us a comment or question!Calvary Chapel Franklin: http://calvarychapelfranklin.com/ Email: info@calvarychapelfranklin.com The Parsons Pad Website: https://parsonspad.com/ Telegram: https://t.me/parsonspadpodcastTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/ccfranklintn Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CalvaryChapelFranklin/ Subscribe to the audio podcast: https://parsonspad.buzzsprout.com/ Calvary Chapel Franklin meets at: Sunday mornings: 1724 General George Patton Drive, Brentwood TN 37027 Wednesday evenings: 274 Mallory Station Rd, Franklin TN 37967 (Aspen Grove Christian Church)Mail: PO Box 1993 Spring Hill TN 37174 If you need a Bible, please download the free Gideon's app for iPhone or Android: https://gideons.org/ Calvary Chapel Franklin is a 501c3 tax exempt religious organization. If you would like to donate to support this ministry, please click here: https://calvarychapelfranklin.churchcenter.com/giving
Transformative Truth: Without God's grace, sinners are unable to choose salvation. 1. Predestination (Ephesians 1:3-14) 2. Arminianism's argument against God's Sovereign Election 3. God's formula for salvation (Eph. 2:4-10) a. God's grace b. When God “draws” his elect to salvation 4. Saul's conversion 5. Questions about Free Will vs God's Sovereign Election a. What about verses that suggest belief is from Free Will? b. Does God also predestine those who will go to hell? c. Is God's Sovereign Election unfair? d. What about the people from Old Testament times? 6. Application
Russ and Tim return to a listener email, this time diving into the deep, complicated waters of Calvinism and how to look at both God's love and sovereignty through the lens of Romans 9. Dive in below and SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS AND TOPICS THAT YOU WOULD LOVE FOR US TO DISCUSS!Subscribe to get the latest videos and live worship:https://www.youtube.com/xchurch Connect with X Church Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/theXchurch.ohInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/theX_church/ Helping people get on the path to God. This is the vision of X Church, led by Pastor Tim Moore and based in South East Columbus, OH _ Stay Connected Website: www.thex.church#theXchurch
In this episode of GraceNotes from no. 87 "Arminianism and the Gospel of Grace," we dive into the theology of Arminianism and its views on the gospel of grace. Named after Dutch theologian Jacob Arminius, Arminianism challenges the strong determinism of Calvinism, particularly in its views on salvation, free will, and God's grace. We'll explore the historical roots of Arminianism, from Arminius' objections to John Calvin's doctrines to the formalization of Arminian theology in the early 17th century. Through this study, we'll unpack key points of disagreement between Arminianism and Calvinism, such as the nature of election, the concept of prevenient grace, and the question of whether salvation can be lost. While Arminianism emphasizes human free will and the ability to choose salvation, it also presents challenges to the gospel of grace, particularly when it comes to assurance of salvation and the idea of works in maintaining salvation. How do Arminians reconcile their belief that salvation can be lost with the Bible's teaching on God's unconditional grace? We'll also look at how Arminianism compares to biblical teachings on eternal security, examining the struggles many believers face with assurance of salvation when their security is tied to human effort rather than God's grace. This episode seeks to bring clarity to these complex theological systems and highlight the importance of understanding the full gospel of grace. Whether you're familiar with the terms TULIP, prevenient grace, or the history of Arminianism, this episode will equip you to better understand both Arminian and Calvinist views and how they relate to the truth of the gospel. Join us as we unpack the core of the gospel message—salvation by grace alone, through faith alone—and why it's essential for believers to rest in the assurance of eternal security.
Send us a textThe doctrine of atonement stands as the most divisive battlefield in Christian theology, yet many believers struggle to articulate what Christ's sacrifice actually accomplished. This thought-provoking conversation explores the profound question at the heart of salvation: For whom did Jesus die?Breaking down the word itself reveals its true meaning – "at-one-ment" with God. But how does Christ's blood sacrifice reconcile sinners to a holy God? Does His death make salvation merely possible for everyone, or does it actually secure salvation for specific people? The answer divides Christianity into two theological camps: Arminianism and Calvinism.Through an engaging panel discussion, we unpack the essential elements of Christ's atonement – substitution, satisfaction, reconciliation, and forgiveness. We explore why the Old Testament sacrificial system could only temporarily cover sin while Christ's sacrifice permanently removes it. As one participant aptly notes, "Animal sacrifices couldn't actually remove sin permanently; it was just a temporary covering, a shadow pointing to the ultimate atonement which would come in Christ."This conversation challenges common misconceptions about atonement while revealing its centrality to the gospel message. You'll gain clarity on terms like "limited atonement" and "particular redemption" while understanding why these concepts matter deeply to your faith journey. Whether you're a theological novice or seasoned believer, this exploration of Christ's atoning work will deepen your appreciation for what happened at Calvary.Ready to move beyond surface-level Christianity? Listen now to discover how your understanding of Christ's atonement shapes your entire view of salvation, God's character, and the gospel itself.The Balance of GrayGod, doubt, and proof walk into a podcast... it goes better than you'd expect!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
00:00 - Intro02:41 - Shouldn't we hate sin?16:08 - Are you saved based on feelings or emotions?20:22 - Why is it Calvinism or Arminianism?26:59 - What about Lutheran churches?29:06 - Are you Non-Denominational?36:10 - Struggling with a lack of fruit/consistency.48:14 - Do you have tips on witnessing to Jewish people?52:08 - God sent an evil spirit to Saul?58:35 - Is 1 John 1:9 about salvation or sanctification?01:09:43 - I am struggling with anger amidst other things...01:16:35 - Luke 13, repentance for salvation?01:31:00 - How to have everlasting life.01:32:26 - Closing and Outro @focusevangelisticministriesinc HOW TO HAVE ETERNAL LIFE : https://youtu.be/t_6L7E_mfIwSUBSCRIBE https://www.youtube.com/c/biblelineLIKE https://www.facebook.com/biblelineminCOMMENT ask us a question!SHARE with all your friends and familyDo you have a Bible question? Send your question to questions@biblelineministries.org!Support Bibleline - https://www.calvaryoftampa.org/donate/Bibleline is a ministry of Calvary Community Church in Tampa, Florida and is hosted by Pastor Jesse Martinez.LIKE THIS? CHECK THESE GUYS OUT:https://www.youtube.com/c/Northlandchurchstc(Tom Cucuzza)https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdddWVKMcM9c-SjUR1LZTBw(Jim Scudder)https://www.youtube.com/@focusevangelisticministriesinc(Josiah Coile)https://www.youtube.com/user/biblelinebroadcast(Yankee Arnold)https://www.youtube.com/c/TheKeesBoerMinistryChannel(Kees Boer)#bibleline #liveqna #salvation #calvinism #arminianism #repent #repentance #feelings #holyspirit #anger #nondenominational #freegrace #1john #sanctification #focus #ministries #josiahcoile #femi
HE IS RISEN! Easter is a time of year that many people celebrate and recognize, but what is the true reason behind this? Between the signs of spring, bunny rabbits, and easter eggs it can be difficult to see where the true significance is. It is important to highlight and discuss the true reason to celebrate Easter and that is the death and resurection of Jesus Christ. In this episode, Stephen sits down with Jacob to discuss the facts about the death and resurection of Jesus Christ and how it is the true reason to celebrate Easter. This is a very different episode than what is become expected on this show, but Stephen and Jacob both felt it very necessary to share the truth of the gospel and deeply discuss the varifiable truths of the Bible. We ask that regardless of your background you give this episode a listen and consider the topics and perspectives that are shared in it. *CORRECTIONS* @min-17:45 While explaining the diety of Jesus Christ, Jacob intended to reference the heresy known as "Arianism" but accidently said "Arminianism". To clarify, Arminianism is not a heresy, but is a protestant theological prospective. Arianism (the intended reference) is a heretical perspective that denies the eternal diety of Jesus Christ and claims He was created. Learn More About Jesus & How To Be Saved What Is Christianity? Answers About Christianity Who Is Jesus? Other Valuable Resources Located below are helpful resources for more education on much of the topics discussed in this episode: The History of Easter Biblical Manuscipts Biblical Reliability Archaeological Evidences Why We Should Share The Gospel Known Christian Heresies CONTACT US The best way to get a hold of us is to email us. We love hearing from you and we also love discussing details and helping where we can with specific or more nuanced questions. Please feel free to reach out. We'd love to talk to you! minutemen.initiative@gmail.com HOW TO SUPPORT US & THE PODCAST Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! @Dynamic.Defense.Solutions | @Minutemen.Initiative | @Minutemen.Initiative (YouTube) We are passionate about training / education which is a major drive behind why we do the podcast, this same passion extends to our social media presence. We post high quality and in-depth educational content on our DDS instagram as well as our Podcast instagram. Support us through our webstore: Dynamic Defense Solutions Webstore Use Discount Code: MINUTEMEN We thoroughly test and evaluate all the equipment we sell. If you see it for sale on our webstore then we personally back it and recommend it. We are always adding new products to our store that we believe supports the "Modern Minuteman" and that mission. We get asked often how people can support us and the podcast. Purchasing gear, equipment, holsters, and accessories from us directly supports DDS which makes the Minutemen Initiative podcast possible. We appreciate all of you who listen and greatly appreciate your support! Thank you, Jacob & Stephen INDUSTRY COLLABORATIONS: IWA International Website: https://iwainternationalinc.com Discount Code: DDS5 One Hundred Concepts Weblink w/ Discount: https://onehundredconcepts.com/DYNAMICDEFENSESOLUTIONS Discount Code: DYNAMICDEFENSESOLUTIONS If code is inactive or not working, please use the follwoing email to request you dicount: cs@onehundredconcepts.com
On todays show James, Chris, Jimmy, and Glenn talk about the Book of James, focusing on its practical and spiritual aspects. Key points included the importance of faith accompanied by deeds, the role of the Holy Spirit in conversion, and the debate between Calvinism and Arminianism on predestination. The conversation highlighted James's emphasis on treating the poor with respect and the need for a changed heart to produce fruit of the Spirit. The group also explored the historical context of Martin Luther's critique of James, emphasizing that faith alone justifies, but works are evidence of true faith. The discussion emphasized the importance of both academic knowledge and practical application for pastors. Speaker 2 stressed that preachers need to understand complex theological concepts to address challenges from laypeople and to effectively communicate spiritual truths. They also highlighted the need for pastors to model their faith and provide practical guidance. The conversation touched on historical figures like Martin Luther and Calvin, and the significance of understanding theological contexts. Additionally, the speakers discussed the relevance of the Apostolic Fathers' Greek text and English translation. Don't miss the episode!
We look at a number of apparent theological paradoxes that are resolved in the same way, according to the principle that: “the entirety of Your WORD is TRUTH” (Ps 119:160). In each case, there are a set of Scriptures that emphasise one truth and another set of Scriptures that emphasise a different truth, but it can seem hard to see how to hold both truths together as they don't seem to fit. Some examples are: (1) the Prophecies of the Sufferings and Glory of Christ (Luke 24:25), (2) the Goodness and Severity of God, (3) God's Sovereignty and man's free-will, (4) the fact that Christ is both God and man (the hypostatic union), (5) the Tri-unity of God, and (6) how we can be forgiven in Christ (as far as our relationship is concerned), and yet still need forgiveness (as far as our fellowship with God is concerned). In each of these cases, people can easily go into a ditch on either side of the road of truth by choosing the set of Scriptures they like, and then ignoring or explaining away the Scriptures on the other side. The answer is found in realising that both sets of Scriptures are fully true, because there are 2 distinct (but related) realms of truth (if you can try to reconcile the 2 truths by mixing them together, you end up compromising and destroying them both - for example, by saying Christ is a semi-god and a semi-man, whereas the truth is that He is fully God and fully man). On the basis that all Scripture is true, we should embrace both revelations of truth, then seek God for a deeper understanding of how both sides can be fully true. When we do this, we will be rewarded with a fuller revelation of God's truth.
The principal focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of theological differences within the Christian podcast community, specifically concerning the contentious topics of Calvinism and Arminianism. We convene as a collective of podcasters dedicated to engaging in these discussions with a spirit of love and charity, striving for a deeper understanding of our diverse perspectives. Throughout the dialogue, we address the complexities of salvation, divine sovereignty, and human responsibility, seeking to delineate our various interpretations of scripture and doctrine. Our conversation aims to illuminate the nuances of these theological positions, fostering a respectful exchange of ideas that is both enlightening and constructive. Ultimately, we aspire to enrich our listeners' faith journeys by providing thoughtful insights into the intricate tapestry of Christian theology.The podcast episode delves into the intricate theological debate surrounding Calvinism and Arminianism, a topic that has engendered considerable discourse within the Christian community. The speakers engage in a nuanced discussion, highlighting their respective positions while emphasizing the importance of love and charity in theological disagreements. Each participant introduces themselves and their podcast affiliations, providing context for their perspectives. The episode explores the historical and biblical foundations of both theological viewpoints, addressing key concepts such as total depravity, election, and the nature of grace. Through earnest dialogue, the speakers strive to elucidate their beliefs while respecting the diversity of thought within the Christian faith, ultimately advocating for a spirit of unity amid doctrinal differences. This rich narrative underscores the complexity of theological discussions and the necessity of mutual understanding among believers.Takeaways: In this episode, we engaged in a thoughtful discussion on the theological differences within the Christian podcast community, emphasizing the importance of love and charity in such conversations. We explored the complex debate between Calvinism and Arminianism, acknowledging the passionate beliefs held by many individuals and the historical context of these theological positions. The concept of total depravity was examined, with particular attention given to how it influences our understanding of human will and God's sovereignty in salvation. I articulated the idea that God's election is unconditional, emphasizing the biblical basis for this belief and how it impacts the assurance of salvation for believers. We discussed the preservation of the saints, affirming that true believers are secure in their salvation and cannot be lost, despite the existence of warning passages in Scripture. The conversation concluded with a call for unity and understanding in theological debates, advocating for respectful dialogue among differing viewpoints within the faith community.
Topics: Predestination, Biblical Predestination, False Predestination, Role of Free Will in Salvation, Predestination and God's Love, Predestination vs. Calvinism and Arminianism, Invitation of Gentiles Into God's Family, Meaning of Ephesians 1-3, Romans 9-11 and the Jewish Rejection of Christ, Impact of Legalism on Salvation, God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility, The Gospel as Good News for all People, The Elect as the Body of Christ, Stumbling Block of Jesus for the Jews, Faith vs. Works of the Law in Salvation, Role of Grace in Predestination, Inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan, Misinterpretation of Romans 9, God's Mercy in Salvation, Abraham's Promise and its fulfillment, Purpose of the Law Before Christ, Predestination as God's Predetermined Plan for Salvation, Spiritual Significance of Being Children of the Promise, Transformation of Believers Into a New Creation, Meaning of “Many are Called, Few are Chosen," Rejection of Christ by Legalistic Jews, Dangers of Relying on Works for Righteousness, How Faith in Jesus Replaces the Law, Role of the Holy Spirit in Guiding Believers, Ultimate Glorification of Believers in ChristThe Christian Identity Volume 3Send Matt a text about this episode!Support the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter
If God's determination concerning any thing should have a temporal original, it must needs be either because he then perceived some goodness in it of which before he was ignorant, or else because some accident did affix a real goodness to some state of things which it had not from him; neither of which, without abominable blasphemy, can be affirmed, seeing he knoweth the end from the beginning, all things from everlasting, being always the same, the fountain of all goodness, of which other things do participate in that measure which it pleaseth him to communicate it unto them.
In this short episode, Charlie explains how the Simply by Grace podcast continues to be popular but now GraceLife is expanding to video format. You will be able to still listen via your favorite podcast service or visit the GraceLife Youtube channel to watch the podcast. https://youtube.com/@GraceLifeOrg On top of this, Charlie's popular GraceNotes will be the kickoff series, beginning with eternal security. GraceNotes are the most popular and most downloaded resource on our GraceLife.org website and the GraceLife app (GL Ministries). GraceNotes are two-page studies designed to be downloaded, copied, and handed out as a teaching tool. No special permission is needed! They are currently available in seven languages and with more on the way. After beginning with the hot topic of eternal security, Charlie will continue with episodes grouped around assurance of salvation, the nature of faith, grace, repentance, the Judgment Seat of Christ, Rewards, Calvinism, Arminianism, Lordship Salvation, Sanctification issues, discipleship, and special studies on John, Romans, Hebrews, 1 John, Revelation, and problem passages. These studies originated from the questions Charlie gets when he is teaching and preaching. Be sure to subscribe so you will be notified when the episodes are released. #SimplybyGrace #GraceNotes #FreeGrace
What is the responsibility of evangelism? In this sermon titled “Calvinism, Hyper-Calvinism, and Arminianism,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones distinguishes between the three from a biblical perspective in regards to evangelism. There is a great confusion today between mere activity and real spiritual work. People are always impressed by activity, but this is often carnal zeal and activism. What is “prayer-backing”? Do Calvinists need to be reminded of the responsibility of evangelism in ministry? What is the right motive for evangelism? Learn of the history of Calvinism and the over-correction that often results. Hyper-Calvinists press logic so far that they do not give the free offer of salvation to others. Hear of election, predestination, and human responsibility, and of the biblical truths that cannot be logically reconciled. God alone is responsible for salvation, while humanity alone is responsible for damnation. Listen as Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues that a person ought to be a great Calvinist who preaches like an Arminian. Evangelism is the result of a great urge, not mere duty; it is an inevitable fruit, not something to be added. How did Christianity spread before the printing press? Look to God for help, rather than oneself; be filled with the glory of God, rather than statistics and organizations. Stand humbled before God.