To Choose or not to Choose?
To Choose or not to Choose?
That is the question.
We could ask the same question by saying, Arminianism or Calvinism?
These explanations outline two systems of belief developed by John Calvin and Jacobus Arminius, each based on their interpretations of what the Bible teaches about salvation. Arminius formulated his views in response to Calvin's teachings.
Calvinism teaches that one cannot choose to follow Christ. This belief system contains truths about God's sovereignty but excludes free will to choose.
Arminianism is an answer to Calvinism. It is not the opposite of Calvinism but instead harmonizes both God's sovereignty and ones free will to choose.
What does the Bible teach?
The Bible teaches both God's sovereignty and human responsibility, and while they may seem contradictory to the Calvanist, they harmonize beautifully when we consider the full counsel of Scripture. Here's how they fit together:
1. God Sovereignly Initiates Salvation
Scripture:
"No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him." (John 6:44)
"We love Him because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19)
Explanation:
Salvation begins with God. He takes the first step by drawing people to Himself through the Holy Spirit, showing His grace and love to all humanity (John 12:32).
2. Humans Are Called to Respond to God’s Invitation
Scripture:
"Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve." (Joshua 24:15)
"Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely." (Revelation 22:17)
"Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ." (Acts 2:38)
Explanation:
God’s invitation to salvation is universal. While God initiates, He does not force anyone to believe. Each individual has the ability and responsibility to respond in faith.
3. God Foreknows and Predestines, but Does Not Override Free Will
Scripture:
"For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son." (Romans 8:29)
"God our Savior... desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:3-4)
Explanation:
God’s foreknowledge doesn’t negate human free will. He knows who will respond to Him, and He predestines them to become like Christ. This predestination is based on His foreknowledge of their choice, not on arbitrary selection.
4. God’s Grace is Available to All, But Not All Accept It
Scripture:
"The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men." (Titus 2:11)
"O Jerusalem... how often I wanted to gather your children together... but you were not willing!" (Matthew 23:37)
Explanation:
God offers His grace to all, but He allows people to reject it. This demonstrates both His sovereignty (He offers salvation) and human responsibility (people must accept it).
5. God’s Sovereignty Works Through Human Free Will
Scripture:
"Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:12-13)
Explanation:
Salvation is a partnership. God empowers us to believe, obey, and grow, but we are actively involved in the process. God’s sovereignty ensures His plan is accomplished, but He invites humans to participate willingly.
Illustration of Harmony
Imagine a rescue ship in a storm. The captain (God) sends out a lifeboat (Jesus) to save people drowning in the ocean. The lifeboat comes near everyone, but individuals must choose to get on the lifeboat. The captain knows who will grab it, but He doesn’t force anyone; He simply provides the opportunity for all.
Conclusion
The Bible harmonizes God’s sovereignty and human responsibility by presenting salvation as a divine initiative (God draws, plans, and enables) and a human response . Both truths work together in God’s perfect plan, beyond our full comprehension (Isaiah 55:8-9).