Subject: Aren't the elect commanded to repent? |
Bible Note: Hi Tim, You wrote: "I'm not sure I can make this any clearer my friend. John Owen's point is only valid if universal atonement and universal salvation are the same thing!!!" I do understand your point Tim, the problem is it is self-contradictory! Universal Atonement: Christ died to atone for the sins off all mankind. Universal Salvation: All mankind will be saved. I recognize that you reserve faith as the pre-requisite for anyone to recieve the benefit of the atonement. But that does not change the fact that failure to believe is sin. Easton's Bible Dictionary Atonement This word does not occur in the Authorized Version of the New Testament except in Romans 5:11, where in the Revised Version the word "reconciliation" is used. In the Old Testament it is of frequent occurrence. The meaning of the word is simply at-one-ment, i.e., the state of being at one or being reconciled, so that atonement is reconciliation. Thus it is used to denote the effect which flows from the death of Christ. But the word is also used to denote that by which this reconciliation is brought about, viz., the death of Christ itself; and when so used it means satisfaction, and in this sense to make an atonement for one is to make satisfaction for his offences (Exodus 32:30; Leviticus 4:26; 5:16; Numbers 6:11), and, as regards the person, to reconcile, to propitiate God in his behalf. Owens point is valid. If Christ achieved atonement for all the sins of mankind and unbelief is a sin, then why is the unbeliever judged? Please Tim, don't blame me if universal atonement does'nt make sense. Brother John |