The Great Divide
Theology is man attempting to understand God, simply put. Theology is a good thing, an excellent practice for all believers, for the Scriptures tell tales over and again about man trying to know and understand the Father. For many a century, though, men and women have wildly struggled with one aspect of theology in particular. It is this area in which I and my wife both too are greatly struggling.When I consider this struggle, the best and most summative word picture that I can muster up is this: THE GREAT DIVIDE.
I am referring to what is known today as Reformed Theology, or Calvinism. This is a highly intellectual system that finds its basis, according to its adherents, in the Word of God alone. In a nutshell (though this is greatly dangerous to do), Reformed Theology ascribes to God and Him alone the ability to save man. Nothing is wrong with that, but wait, keep reading. In God's total sovereignty, man can do nothing to save himself. Thus, man does not have the free will to 'choose to receive' God's gracious gift of salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Reformed Theology teaches that God alone approaches man, turns his heart away from wickedness, and causes the regenerate man to persevere to the end, when he will be raised on that great and last day.
This is merely one aspect of Reformed Theology, but it is one with which I tend to clash. I grew up not only believing that as believers we are responsible for responding to God in faith, but also that if one did not continue in faith, he could readily lose his salvation. Now, though, I don't believe a Christian, a true follower of Christ, can lose his salvation. I have grown through this via the study of Scripture (for example Romans 8:38-39; Ephesians 1:13-14). I do though still think that believers are offered the gift of salvation by grace through faith, but that we have to choose Christ in our hearts and minds, confess and repent of sins, and live in the resurrected life of Jesus Christ, thus persevering to the end (The Book of Revelation again and again refers to "the one who perseveres to the end," he is the one who will inherit eternal life),
The struggle comes in that Scriptures seem to support both free will, human responsibility AND the God's total control, predestining those whom he saved.
Oh God, that you would make it evidently clear what is the truth of the mystery of the human will! Nevertheless, Lord, your will be done in our lives, and not our own! :)
posted by Bryan Laramore @ 8:43 AM
4 Addendums:
Because (as you stated) Scripture seems to support both human responsibility/free will and God's sovereignty, I have come to accept both as true. Will I be able to reconcile these two "truths" this side of heaven? Who knows... but fortunately God doesn't require me to understand all these theological intricacies to be saved.
People that twist Scripture to fit their view of God are the ones that do the biggest disservice to those that are lost or spiritually immature. That is why I am thankful for preachers, such as yourself, that are committed to preaching the Word of God in its entirety, regardless of the complexity or divisiveness of the theology.
"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." -- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 In my opinion, the keyword here is "All".
Very good and very true, Brad! As we continue to struggle, I can't wholly accept one without wholly accepting the other. Take the following to verses for example:
John 6:44 "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day."
1 Timothy 2:4: ". . . who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
Each side will run to these verses and claim one as "their own," and reconcile the other to their view.
I'm thinking you're right, though, Brad, both "truths" are going to have to be accepted, whether or not they are "reconciled" this side of heaven, as you say.
May God bless you as you continue to search scripture! Those folks who have "made it" and "know" are the ones that lose out.
Test God's love. Plumb its depths! Remember His faithfulness. Live justly. Love mercy. Show the Grace of Jesus that was shown to you to the poor and the poor in spirit. As long as you're doing these things, you're on the right track. These other questions will fall into place.
Any news on where y'all are headed?
Thanks Thom, I always appreciate seeing your comments!
Check your facebook for our future plans!
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