Subject: Is Limited Atonement Bibical? |
Bible Note: Dear Charlene the Mom, Greetings from Yokohama in the name of Jesus! I am now hosting some Tennessean volunteers for a mission building project here. They are from the Nashville area. If they stay much longer, I think I'll talk funny like them! :-) You wrote: "The problem that I see with Calvinistic doctrine is that it “sounds” like the elect are in like Flynn, and the others don’t have a chance in Hades. And whether we like it or not, the reality is that this presents a huge stumbling block to many in and outside the faith." With all due respect, I must say that just as many are turned away from Christianity by the thought that God allows us to choose to go to hell. In addition to these, I have heard many, many reasons for not serving Jesus. According to the Bible, Jesus Himself is the stumbling stone to those who do not believe. "Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as though it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone, just as it is written, "BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE, AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." Romans 9:32,33 NASB. I think you will find that Jesus can be a Rock of Offence to followers of Calvin and Arminus alike! As for those in the world, ANY excuse to deny Christ is welcome. But if the Holy Spirit is working in their spirit, the life-quickening call of love and freedom is effective to save any lost soul. This is my experience, my testimony! I was against all things Christian, and the name of Jesus was a curse to my lips. But one sweet day He called my name and touched my spirit in the very midst of my anger and rejection, and I was His. I battled against the Holy Spirit, and swore not to serve God, but my will was no match for His. Hallelujah! I do not give this a fancy name or connect it to any moniker or bent. But irresistable was my calling, and I was a good resister. Some may want the credit for 'choosing' Jesus, feel it was their 'decision' that saved them. They may even feel they have the ability to maintain this grace. Yet I know that Jesus initiated my salvation, and the victory is His alone! (Please don't liken Jesus to a judge in a beauty pageant. Actually, the idea that our choice or our works will sway Him to save us is much more like this worldly method!) Friend, if God did not know you first, individually and personally, you would not be able to really know Him for who He is! The Author and Finisher of your salvation. Just a bit of the 'other side.' :-) Peace and joy in Christ Jesus, charis |