Introduction
Universalism, Arminianism, Calvinism, hyper-Calvinism – how do we understand these terms and what implications do they have for us? Often the words are thrown around without much understanding. We find it so easy to associate Bible teachers, churches, Bible colleges, and seminaries with one or more of these theological camps so that we can justify ourselves when we write them off as "religious nuts of a different ilk".
Which theological camp does The Shepherd's Bible College belong to? The answer is not as easy as you might think. In some ways the theological categories are an unfair way of evaluating anyone's position. First, the terms themselves are often misunderstood. Second, the Bible doesn't employ these theological categories. Caution is needed.
How then can we come to grips with God's dealings with humankind? Is everyone saved in the end? Does every individual have the same opportunity to be saved? Are we sovereign over our own destiny? Does God make this decision for us? Should we passionately preach the gospel? Should we just relax?
I think these questions are fair and I believe the Word of God answers them. I'd like to suggest that these questions can be summed up in one ultimate question: Who does God love? If we can answer that question, then our discussions regarding the gospel might go a little easier.
Over the next few days I'll post several instalments on this blog that deal with the question: Who does God love? I trust it will stimulate some good dialogue.
Much of my thinking has come as a result of listening to a sermon by Scott Ardavanis of Placerita Baptist Church in Newhall, California. If there are any misrepresentations of God's Word, I'll take responsibility for those.
Tomorrow, I'll try to briefly describe God's agapē love.
"Preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction" (2 Timothy 4:2).
Uncle Nige ... it’s Daniel. My Dad is preaching on Malachi 1 this Sunday and it has an interesting phrase in Mal. 1:2 which says, “”I have loved you, says the Lord”. It’s interesting because this is a message to Israel who had been really bad up to this point (just like me at times!!!) ... but God still loved them. Uncle Nige, do you think these naughty Israelites that Malachi was writing to will all be in heaven? They didn’t seem to be following God at this point, but God said He still loves them ... that seems pretty cool. What do you think? Does God love even the bad sinners who may not go to heaven?
ReplyDeleteWell hello Daniel! Aren't you four years old and unable to type, much less spell? :) LOL. Yes, I think your question will be answered in the upcoming posts. Parts 4 and 5 will show that God loves all people - yes, sinners - yes, even disobedient Israel. Good question!
ReplyDelete