Ephesians 2:8 De-Calvinized

[@riverroad6294]

As a son, of a pastor, evangelist, and a man that was so close to God, I was saved as a 10-year-old boy, in a Nazarene church… I never doubted salvation until I was in my mid 20s, after I fell into a short time of temptation and sin…. Since then, I have turned to Christ for repentance of sins almost weekly, have I asked for repentance, and I have I confessed my sins, and gone through the book of Romans… Believing the message of salvation, but never experiencing peace for myself… Thank you for this short video. It gives me strength to believe that I am a whosoever as mentioned in Romans 10::13. It’s not my feelings or emotion that saves me, but by believing on the finished work of Christ…

[@rhemaakinola44]

I don't usually comment on videos, but I have to now. God bless you Dr Flowers. Thank you for all you do. I was slowly buying into Reformed theology because I couldn't find other plausible biblical alternatives and for how much love I had for John Piper(and other reformed pastors) because He has been a tremendous blessing to me and still is. But stumbling on Soteriology101 in 2017 has been God means to protect me from embracing a system of theology that undermines God's love for all, removes the responsibility of man, and ultimately assaults the holiness and character of God. I owe my growing understanding of 'Provisionism' largely to you. It's been a wonderful 2 years listening to your podcasts regularly. May the Lord continue to uphold you. Thanking you for contending earnestly for the faith. I hope that someday I am able to support this work also. With all my love from Nigeria.

[@patrickg.7668]

Brother Akinola, praise God this has helped you and kept you from diving headlong into Calvinism which many never recover from. Praise the Lord for His protecting you and guiding you by His Word, His Holy Spirit, and help from good brothers like professor Flowers!

[@ShepherdMinistry]

If you believe faith is a choice then answer me this: Why does one person believe the gospel and another does not, given they both heard it? Is it because one is smarter? Has better reasoning capabilities? or possesses some other characteristic that allows him to realize the importance of the gospel message? What makes the one who chooses to believe different?

[@sweethometreasures]

Beautifully said! God bless ❤️

[@gtobs3181]

​@@ShepherdMinistry Man always has free will.. and can choose to have faith or no faith. Calvanism can be traced back to Manichaeans, which Augustine followed for decades before converting to Catholicism Christianity. Early church father Augustine teaches influenced John calvin, Luther et al and most of the reformers. Calvanism is unbiblical and false.. MacArthur, Sproul, Piper, Voddie et al, most Protestants are following a false theology

[@ShepherdMinistry]

@@gtobs3181 Hey brother, a question that always bothered me is why we choose to believe. I don’t deny a free will I just have a different understanding than you of what we mean by free.

[@dannysolo88]

I truly believe that if we were to start de-calvinizing Christianity as a whole, their would be many more people coming to Christ. It’s better to not be a “determinist” unless God determines otherwise! God bless you Dr Flowers!

[@pierreduranleau2514]

So simple, So clear, It's a wonder great minds get it so wrong. Could it be that they looked to the TULIP instead of the Bible?

[@Franci0242]

They are blinded because they chose to believe a lie and this is a huge lie because it destroys both the gospel and the character of God, and it leads the gullible astray. It is another gospel and it is to be accursed.

[@nikao7751]

Yes Paul Michael you are still the natural man that still does not receive the things of the spirit of God for they are foolishness to you that Christ died for the sins of the world and I pray that you would quit shutting up the kingdom of heaven against men. Calvinist are no better than the Scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23:13

[@nikao7751]

Paul tell it to Christ. Matthew 23:13 but woe unto you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, neither suffer you them that are entering to go in.” Calvinist are the equivalent of scribes and Pharisees. Open your eyes and come out of your willful blindness

[@evanu6579]

Paul Michael The passages I cited proves that a man can depart from the faith. Paul saw them as believers yet was concerned about them departing from God because men had convinced them to keep the law. You’re obviously a Calvinist who believes that God gives faith to certain individuals. If the P in TULIP is false then the whole thing is false. They began in the Spirit but then they started to rely on the law. Fallen from grace. So your statement of “if man can convince someone to have faith then man can convince them to depart from the faith” (paraphrased. I don’t remember exactly) is accurate. Since men can be convinced to depart from the faith then men can be convinced to believe. 1Cor 9: 19 ¶ For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21 To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. 22 To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. That’s what Paul did. He would go into the synagogue and try to persuade them. Take care.

[@evanu6579]

Paul Michael As you pointed out yourself.... Gal 3: 2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. There is no way that you can spin this to make the warnings to the unbelievers in the church. He’s addressing believers. Unbelievers don’t FALL FROM GRACE. You’re putting your own spin on things to push a false god. Follow truth. And then you go on to proof text passages in which you have to ignore the context.... Rom 12: 3 ¶ For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; If you can’t see that this is about spiritual gifts then it may be hopeless discussing this with you. 1Cor 12: 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; All have a measure of this faith. Faith that can move mountains.. 1Cor 13: 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. Next... Eph 2: 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: “Faith” in the Greek is a feminine noun. “That” is a neuter pronoun. Even Calvin and John White agree that faith is not being referred to as the gift. The fact that salvation is by grace through faith means that salvation is a gift. It’s not of works. Next.... Phi 1: 29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Yeah. We’ve been given the choice to believe... Acts 11: 17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? 18 ¶ When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. Gentiles have been allowed repentance and welcomed in to the new covenant. What does that prove for your stance? Next ..... 2Tim 2: 10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 11 ¶ It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: 12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: 👉🏻if we deny him, he also will deny us:👈🏻 Paul was making his rounds and exhorting those who had believed to stand firm in the Gospel. If they deny Jesus, then Jesus would deny them. He’s labouring so that the Christians might be saved which is future... Rom 13: 11 ¶ And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Matt 10: 22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Rom 5: 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. That one really backfired on you. It shows that you can fall from Grace. It’s a faithful saying even if you don’t believe it’s true. He won’t deny Himself (the Word Of God) Next.... Acts 13/48 ¶ And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. Let’s look at the declaration (prophecy) of this taking place.... Mal 3: 16 Then 👉🏻they that feared the LORD👈🏻 spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for 👉🏻them that feared the LORD, 👈🏻and that 👉🏻thought upon his name.👈🏻 17 And👉🏻 they shall be mine, 👈🏻saith the LORD of hosts, in that day 👉🏻when I make up my jewels👈🏻; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. God said that he would spare (save) those who feared Him and thought upon His name. He would make them His jewels. Mal 4: 1 ¶ For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But unto 👉🏻you that fear my name 👈🏻shall the Sun of righteousness 👉🏻arise with healing 👈🏻in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. So who would be healed??.... Luk 4/18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, And who was anointed to eternal life in Acts 13?..... Acts 13: 26 ¶ Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and 👉🏻whosoever among you feareth God, 👈🏻👉🏻to you is the word of this salvation sent.👈🏻 Paul knew the prophecies and who the Gospel was for. The new covenant would take all of the faithful remnant from the old covenant. That’s how Christianity began. Acts 13/ 42 ¶ And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath. So these Gentiles were going to the synagogue on the Sabbath. Most likely looking to become proselytes. Why? Because they feared God. Whoever feared God and thought upon His name was ordained to eternal life.

[@PhilGeissler]

Excellent video Dr. Flowers! This is one of the big Calvinist passages. Loving these wisdom packed "DeCalvinizing" videos!

[@PastorScottIngram]

Another wonderful video showing the God does love us and we are NOT just puppets but people God desires to have relationship with!

[@kll2220]

Calvinists don't believe in a puppeteer God either :)

[@jerardosc9534]

K LL Basically they do

[@jimyoung9262]

I'm thankful for these short form videos. They are very helpful and sometimes it's hard for me to come up with an hour to watch your longer lectures. For anyone who has yet to get it, I strongly recommend Dr. Flowers book "The Potter's Promise." I appreciate your ministry.

[@jcthomas3408]

Great explanation of both Eph 2:8 and Lazarus. I am also tired of Calvinists quoting "Esau I have hated" to support that God hates certain people to hell. The word translated "hated" can also mean preferred for a purpose, or chose over another. Just like when Jesus tells us to "hate" our mother, father, etc., to follow him in Luke 14:26.

[@honeykisssssss]

Jc Thomas calvanist use that verse the same way that Hebrew Israelites do to say that Jesus only died for Israel.

[@jesuschristsaves9067]

Honey Kiss True.

[@jesuschristsaves9067]

Marius VanWoerden *John Calvin quotes:* _”Servetus offers to come hither, if it be agreeable to me. But I am unwilling to pledge my word for his safety, for if he shall come, I shall never permit him to depart alive, provided my authority be of any avail.”_ - *Letter to Farel, 13 February 1546*

[@jesuschristsaves9067]

Marius VanWoerden *John Calvin’s quote:* _“Whoever shall now contend that it is unjust to put heretics and blasphemers to death, knowingly and willingly incur their guilt. It is not human authority that speaks, it is God who speaks and prescribes a perpetual rule for His Church.”_

[@jesuschristsaves9067]

Marius VanWoerden Those are just a couple examples. My question is, is this the John Calvin that taught the doctrines of *_grace_* to which RT men hold to his ideologies to the same degree if not higher than Jesus?

[@BibleLosophR]

Many passages in the Bible teach that faith is the gift of God. For example John 1:12-13 says that people are born again NOT BY THE WILL OF MAN. Roman 9:16 says that salvation doesn't depend on the will of man. One of the gifts of the Spirit is the extra-ordinary/miraculous GIFT of faith (1 Cor. 12:9). Paul says in Rom. 12:3 that God has GIVEN each [Christian] a measure of faith. The father of the demonic asked Jesus, "help my unbelief" (Mark 9:24). The Apostles asked Jesus to "increase our faith" (Luke 17:5). Paul says that repentance is a gift from God which He may or may not grant (2 Tim. 2:25). Hebrews 12:2 says Jesus is the "author and perfecter of our faith". The New Covenant predicted in the OT (e.g. Jer. 31; Ezek. 11) says that when God gives people a new heart it He will CAUSE people to obey Him. Paul teaches that the continuance of faith is in God's hands (Phil. 1:6; Jude 1:24). I could go on, but that's sufficient. If faith is the autonomous exercise of libertarian free will and not the gift of God, then it makes no sense for Paul to say that God has given each Christian a measure of faith (Rom. 12:3). Since, the degree of faith would be up to the person himself, if it weren't a gift. But Paul is saying that whatever measure of faith we have, that is sovereignly given by God. Nor would it make sense that one of the miraculous GIFTS of the Spirit is faith, if faith cannot be given. Since it IS GIVEN, then it's not ultimately an autonomous act. Which makes sense of the statement in John 1:12-13 which says being born again is not of the will of man. Or Paul saying salvation is not based on the exercise of the will of man (Rom. 9:16).

[@kentonletkeman7305]

Dr. Flowers mentioned in another video that the best way to rebut a proof text is by looking at the verses before and after. So I looked at Eph. 2:9, "not by works, so that no one can boast." So, what is the gift we receive that is not by works? Was Paul saying that "faith" is not by works? That doesn't fit the rest of the passage. Or is "grace" not by works? Well, grace is, by definition, a gift we don't deserve. So why would Paul argue that grace is not by works? The only thing that makes sense is that the gift is the plan of salvation itself.

[@sunshinegirl1967]

Wow, that clip with Derek. This is WHY we must oppose Tulip every time and every chance we get. It hurts everybody.

[@TheMaineSurveyor]

It doesn’t hurt to believe the Scriptures when it says Jesus is the author of our faith. See Hebrews 12:1-2

[@chieflan5]

These short videos are so extremely helpful. Thank you so much!

[@MandyGood]

Derek Webb leaving the faith due to Calvinism breaks my heart! I pray that he knows the true meaning of the gospel. Calvinism lead me into deep sin because I thought God hated me and I didn’t get in because the faith wasn’t mine. I was all kinds of messed up for years. It breaks my heart Derek completely turned away God due to Calvinism. He was deep in it and of course it ruins how you see God. It shows God doesn’t provide or loves people. It’s a really messed up view and it can rot you from within each day. I’m so thankful for my husband which I fought for years over Calvinism and for Dr. Flowers videos. I been battling this my whole life. I’m so glad to know God loves me and not hate me. I hope Derek comes to faith and repents and know the true living God.

[@dustinpaulson1123]

Leighton straight laying the axe of truth to the root of Calvinism.

[@dustinpaulson1123]

@@MariusVanWoerden What lie has he told?

[@skafan89]

@@MariusVanWoerden just because you believe something to be true by no means says that it is true.

[@skafan89]

@@MariusVanWoerden i would agree , but scripture says im correct on this topic , and after doing a topic study on it many times over i can say that scripture teaches the same thing as i believe .

[@skafan89]

@@MariusVanWoerden i have been wrong lots but i do topic study to correct the wrongs that certain churches taught me in the past. and where have i gone against scripture, please show me where i am in error .

[@skafan89]

@@MariusVanWoerden im very aware of church history , and i did accuse you of anything , i merely stated the fact that just because you were taught something by no means says that it is what scripture teaches

[@Letstalktheology1]

I will be honest, I thought this was a bit of a difficult passage to deal with as a non-Calvinist. However, not only to this video, completely rebut the Calvinist position, but it really turned it on its head! What an excellent explanation with scriptural cross reference.

[@Weaton777]

Very good. Clear as day to me! Thank you.

[@Franci0242]

Amen!

[@kadenreijgers1351]

Love both small and long videos thanks a lot!

[@villarrealmarta6103]

The most offensive part towards God about Calvinism is the notion that God doesn’t want all to be saved.

[@joelthompson90]

Former Calvinists here. Need salvation from it. I need to get back to where I was. I was able to just believe the Bible in those days. I miss it.🙁

[@Myrdden71]

Come as a child, simple faith, believing Jesus is the Son of God and that he loves you and died for your sins. Ask God to forgive you for your sins, and live for Him. It's a simple, and as difficult, as this: Believe in Him. John 1:12 - "But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God," Ask, seek, knock. The door will be opened. Matthew 7:7-8 - “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened."

[@joelthompson90]

@@Myrdden71 thank you

[@ShepherdMinistry]

@@joelthompson90 what made you switch?

[@joelthompson90]

@@ShepherdMinistry limited atonement, lack of assurance, couldn't just believe the bible, it always had to be seen in a calvinist framework. Needed to constantly prove election, faith, etc. The thought that yes, I'm saved now, but something may happen in the future to prove that I've been lying to myself this whole time. Things like that.

[@ShepherdMinistry]

@@joelthompson90 Calvinist view has you rest assured on God as your rock. Calvinist view states faith is a gift from God so you can rely on Him to be the author and finisher. It produces true humility which means denial of self and glorifying God in everything. May I ask you this since you believe faith is your choice and not a gift from God: Why does one person believe the gospel and another does not, given they both heard it? Is it because one is smarter? Has better reasoning capabilities? or possesses some other characteristic that allows him to realize the importance of the gospel message? What makes the one who chooses to believe different?

[@abc-nk1jk]

How tragic to think God creates you for hell.

[@tophatt5706]

That's just your man centered conclusion.

[@skafan89]

@@tophatt5706 really, you seem to forgot to look up what history says about you claim to be false.oh thats right the ones who statred the church were just pawns until the great augustine was born to save us all with his version of scripture, im so glad that God let the start of His church be so wrong for so many years.

[@skafan89]

@@reynaldodavid4755actually that is not correct , God never did , or does that , only people do that to themselves .God does not predestine anyone , He just knows where they will end up .

[@skafan89]

@@reynaldodavid4755 sorry but no where n any of those verses doe sit say that God has "predestined " anyone to anything

[@tophatt5706]

@@dejavudisciple so you believe if you don't receive eternal life, your soul is destroyed?

[@ReasonableFaithSA]

As a calvinist I never held to this calvinistic interpretation of Ephesians 2:8 nor have I heard any Calvinist claim this as a proof text for irresistible grace. Maybe they have, but I haven't heard it before. What it does teach is that faith is not a work but a gift from God. The Greek word for faith is pistis. It is derived from peitho, which means to persuade. To believe and to have faith is not belief without evidence (as Dawkins claims). It is to be persuaded by God and it is an undeserved gift. What I have heard is a former Arminian say 'It takes a real man to be a Christian'. According to him, he became a Christian primarily by his own choice because he was good and strong. He later came to believe in predestination and changed into a more humble and nicer person who was much easier to get on with. God chose the weak in order to shame the strong. He chose the things that are not to bring to nothing the things that are. This is very profound and wonderful. God chose the foolish, but he doesn't want you to stay that way. Don't throw away your inheritance for a bowl of pottage.

[@toktik8715]

Profound, Indeed.

[@ACBaker67]

Thanks for the video. I shared it on my blog and on Facebook and Twitter. It is past time we become vocal in our opposition to the Calvinist tide.

[@ACBaker67]

Mo Jo The simple tone of your comments is all I need to determine how to respond. You either need Jesus, or you need to grow up.

[@scott236]

If there is a modern hero of the faith its Dr. Flowers!

[@nikao7751]

Amen. Calvinism should rub every true believer in Christ the wrong way and I’m glad it’s him doing this and not me because I wouldn’t be so nice about people who shut up the kingdom of heaven against men. God bless the scots-irish

[@KISStheSON...]

@@nikao7751 Amen! The reason Calvinists aren't rubbed the wrong way is that they once had itching ears and willingly received and are bearing with the spirit of Calvinism, not the Holy Spirit. 2 Corinthians 11:4 “For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.”

[@apilkey]

Excellent points. 1) Gifts still have to be received 2) Gifts still have to be exercised by those who have them 3) Even if faith was the gift it does NOT say this gift is exclusive to a select few. That is grossly ASSUMED. The fact is every man has the gift of breath and of many other things including a measure of faith required to believe that he needs to exercise in order to receive eternal life. You can choose to believe in Christ with that measure of faith or you can choose to believe in atheism (which I would actually argue requires MORE FAITH). ...According to Romans 10:8 faith is near even in our hearts: ROMANS 10:8 8 But what saith it? THE WORD IS NIGH THEE, even in thy mouth, and IN THY HEART: that is, the WORD OF FAITH, which we preach; ...The entire phrase stated by Paul as being the gift is also supported by the Apostle Paul in his other writings that SALVATION is the gift. Scripture with scripture, everything fits perfectly. ...According to Romans 6:23 Paul tells us again that the gift is ETERNAL LIFE: ROMANS 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death; but the GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE through Jesus Christ our Lord. ...According to Romans 5:15-17 Paul tells us that the gift is righteousness: ROMANS 5:15-17 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the GIFT BY GRACE, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the FREE GIFT is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more THEY WHICH RECEIVE abundance of grace and of the GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Grace leads to the gift of justification and righteousness. **VERSE 17: This passage is also clear you have to RECEIVE this gift!

[@apilkey]

Pk Amponn Our salvation isn't ours to lose it's HIS. How can we lose something that's not even in our hands to lose? It’s in GOD’S hands! Like a set of keys you can only lose your keys if they're in YOUR possession. But if you give your keys to someone else then you can't lose your keys anymore only THEY can lose them. Since we've given our lives to Christ we can't lose them anymore. Our lives are now in HIS possession and we know that He will never lose a set of keys! If you believe you can lose your salvation then you're faith is not in Christ it's in yourself. You need to put your faith IN Christ. Faith in Christ means you believe you have eternal life. Christ is in you and He can't deny Himself. Has nothing to do with you. It's all about HIM keeping you. Do you believe He can keep you? Do you trust that He'll never leave you or forsake you or is your faith in vain?

[@apilkey]

Pk Amponn **When you believe you have ETERNAL life not temporary life just in case you lose it. It’s eternal meaning you have it FOREVER. Key word is ETERNAL not just simply “life.” : 1 JOHN 5:11-13 11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us ETERNAL LIFE, and THIS LIFE IS IN HIS SON. 12 HE THAT HATH THE SON HATH LIFE; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13 THESE THINGS HAVE I WRITTEN UNTO YOU THAT BELIEVE on the name of the Son of God; THAT YE MAY KNOW that ye have ETERNAL life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. **VS. 13 These things are also written that we MAY in fact truly know we have eternal life which is another huge give away. If you think you can lose your salvation then you don’t really ever know you have eternal life. But God’s word is clear we actually CAN know! So how can we be certain and know then? Because it’s got absolutely nothing to do with us but it’s all to do with HIM! vs 11 says He gives us ETERNAL life and that this life is IN His Son! This life is not in YOU, it’s in His Son. It’s in CHRIST which is in you. *********************************** eternal adjective eter·​nal | \ i-ˈtər-nᵊl Definition of eternal 1a: having infinite duration : EVERLASTING eternal damnation b: of or relating to eternity c: characterized by abiding fellowship with God 2a: continued without intermission : PERPETUAL an eternal flame b: seemingly endless eternal delays 3archaic : INFERNAL some eternal villain … devised this slander 4: valid or existing at all times : TIMELESS eternal verities

[@apilkey]

Pk Amponn EPHESIANS 1:13,14 13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, YE WERE SEALED WITH THAT HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance UNTIL THE REDEMPTION of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. You’re sealed UNTIL you’re redeemed. You’re not sealed temporarily for only a few years until you lose your salvation. God tells us “how long” we’re sealed for and it’s UNTIL our redemption when Christ’s returns and we’re glorified with Christ! EPHESIANS 4:30 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby YE ARE SEALED UNTO THE DAY OF REDEMPTION. Q: According to God’s Word how long are we sealed until? Until we lose it? Or UNITL THE DAY OF REDEMPTION?

[@JohnQPublic11]

@@apilkey --- You are a poor Bible student. There are scores of verses in the Bible warning people to *NOT* lose there salvation.

[@apilkey]

John Q. Public Do you have a different definition of the word eternal? You don’t have to be a good bible student to know that eternal means FOREVER and not “temporary.” Even a child can comprehend this no need to be a good bible student but nice try. This is Spiritual milk that you can’t lose your salvation. If you stumble at this simple truth - one the basic truths of Christianity then how do you expect to understand anything else. It’s simple, black and white either you have ETERNAL life when you believe as the scriptures say or you don’t. So right now you can’t tell me if you have eternal life or not because you believe there’s a possibility that you could lose it? That means you’re not saved at all because you’re trusting YOURSELF instead of Christ. When you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ you’re eternally secure. If you think you can lose your salvation than you haven’t fully trusted Christ. You’ve trusted yourself to be obedient. You can’t save yourself. Stop trusting yourself and trust the Lord Jesus Christ to save you. It’s simple. Black and white. Either you’ve trusted Jesus Christ 100% or you haven’t. If you’ve fully trusted Christ then you can’t lose it. If you haven’t fully trusted Christ but you’re trusting in yourself instead to persevere to the end then you’re not saved. That’s why you don’t understand these things because you’re not saved at all. You’re trusting yourself. You need to surrender your life to Christ. 2 TIMOTHY 2:11 11 IT IS A FAITHFUL SAYING: For if we be dead with him, we SHALL ALSO LIVE WITH HIM: 12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: 13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: HE CANNOT DENY HIMSELF. **This is a FAITHFUL saying. Do we believe it’s a faithful saying or do we doubt and believe this is a lie? ROMANS 8:38,39 38 FOR I AM PERSUADED, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, SHALL BE ABLE TO SEPARATE US from the love of God, WHICH IS IN CHRIST Jesus our Lord. ****Paul was persuaded of not losing his salvation why aren’t you? Nothing can separate you NOT EVEN YOURSELF! If you’re not persuaded it’s because you’re trusting yourself and trusting the evidence of your fruit instead of just trusting HIM. Only when we truly trust Him will our fruit be real fruit. That's a works salvation if you have to trust in your works or fruit to persevere till the end. That's no longer GRACE then, it now becomes a DEBT. You’re trying to pay a debt He already paid and that you’d never be able to pay anyways!

[@VictorFelipe82]

Very thankful to your ministry Dr. Flowers. Just this year, I have resumed a closer relationship with God, and throughout this short journey, I have come across doctrines I had never heard of. I was a regular church-goer but hadn't really known anything about this Calvinist plan of salvation. I had always thought there was only one plan of salvation among all evangelical churches. I grew up in a Baptist church here in Perú, and I all ever knew was this only one God's plan of salvation, which you have perfectly articulated and called Provisionism. Provisionism is honestly presented with no secrets whatsoever when witnessing to unbelivers. Calvinism, on the other hand, seems to me that makes the believer be cautious not to reveal certain details, like the doctrine of election, for example, which must be a dealbreaker if it comes up during our witnessing to unbelievers. Finally, I have always listened to great preachers and pastors, like John Macarthur, for example, since they are great teachers and brothers who guide us through a life of sanctification in Jesus Christ. But now, I don't know what to think; are they really blinded? Or is it that pride is getting in the way? Or are they actually right, which I doubt? Thanks again, Dr. Flowers. May God keep on blessing you and your ministry.

[@videojunkie75]

DISCLAIMER: I'm not a Greek scholar and have not formally studied Greek. However, I did a deep dive into this verse many years ago as one of my Calvinist friends had written a post on social media blatantly proclaiming "Jesus did not die for all", and using Eph. 2:8-9 as a support text. What I found was similar to the clip Dr. Flowers shared from William Lane Craig. The Greek word translated 'this' or 'that' [touto] is a neuter pronoun in the nominative case. The word rendered 'faith' [pisteos] is a feminine noun in the genitive case and the word rendered 'grace' [chariti] is a feminine noun in the dative case. So as Mr. Craig states, the pronoun 'this' or 'that' (depending on your translation) can't be referring to either of those two words directly. I took a shot at translating the verse from the Greek on my own during this study, and came up with: "For by the grace you are having been saved through faith; and that gift of God is not of yourselves, in order that no one may boast." To sanity check myself, I referred back to Young's Literal Translation of the Bible and found the following: "for by the grace ye are having been saved, through faith, and this not of you - of God the gift, not of works, that no one may boast;". Noted Greek scholar W. Robertson Nicholl said it this way, "…it seems best to understand the [kai touto] as referring to that salvation in its entire compass, and not merely to one element in it, its instrumental cause appended by way of explanation." Thanks for this post - if you wouldn't mind sharing the source of the quote from Calvin, it would be much-appreciated.

[@toktik8715]

I think I know where this is going. Ultimately, in my opinion. We don't know who is or isn't saved so the Gospel must be pushed to both Jew and Gentile.

[@annikaelisaa1879]

Noted Greek scholar W. Robertson Nicholl said it this way, "…it seems best to understand the [kai touto] as referring to that salvation in its entire compass, and not merely to one element in it, its instrumental cause appended by way of explanation. __> touto is not plural though. How does he explain that?

[@Franci0242]

Another awesome teaching!! Thank u and God bless u!

[@78sviolin]

I agree, faith is not a gift from God in the same sense as salvation is. Salvation is always referred to as something belonging to God whereas Jesus continually says to believers, "Your faith has saved you" or "Great is your faith." Jesus actually gets surprised both by the lack and abundance of faith in people. By all that, He clearly points out to the fact that it is your responsibility to exercise faith.

[@78sviolin]

@@mojo7495 Everything that is good comes from God (James 1:17) including faith. It is definitely not a human invention. The issue primarily is whether God withholds this gift from someone or salvation by grace through faith is available to everyone. "It" refers to the whole sentence, so the plan of salvation by grace through faith is God's plan that is offered to fallen humanity. Honestly, I don't understand why some people so vehemently push forward this idea that only some people receive this gift as to position themselves (those who received that gift) above all those miserable people who are perishing in ignorance. They seem to rejoice in that and applaud while people are going to hell because they believe that happens for the ultimate glory of God. This is quite unsettling. However, God mourns for all who perish. Apostle Paul shares that sorrow of God when he says that he wishes to be accursed for the sake of his perishing brothers.

[@garretttekampe9564]

I remember in acts it also says, "and those who were appointed for eternal life believed" showing that requirement for believing and having faith in the first place so that makes faith a product of God's choice yet again. I hear a lot of tip-toing around the meaning in the context. And 1 John 5 shows that those who are currently believe, are only believing because they were born again in regeneration. Not because they had any self caused faith. Where do you have a verse that expresses faith is self caused in the first place?

[@toktik8715]

and we're tiptoeing around the TULIPS. I have to say, that is a good one. Credit to the Chief he comes up with some knee slapping doozies. Have you heard of the one with the punchline.... because God "planned" for such and such to happen...?

[@garretttekampe9564]

@@toktik8715 lol, no I'm not sure which one you're referring to

[@toktik8715]

@@garretttekampe9564 sorry I stated it wrong. The punchline is "Because God ordained it"

[@bass305-HCCA]

Our GOD is an awesome GOD. Amen 🙏

[@Soulja4ChristWeAreAtWar]

Another great verse on this subject : Romans 12:3 KJV - "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God HATH dealt to EVERY MAN the measure of faith."

[@Soulja4ChristWeAreAtWar]

@@mojo7495 the verse does not say anyone, it says, every man. Big difference between every and any.

[@skafan89]

4 calvinist so far have watched this video , to bad they forgot to take the blinders off first.

[@enonknives5449]

They never watch the video. That's why they never try to refute the video. They are only here to say, "You just don't understand Calvinism," and to insult actual Christians.

[@skafan89]

@@enonknives5449 sounds about right

[@enonknives5449]

@@ant1k -- I've listened to James White. He is dishonest and supports his position with logical fallacies. He is close-minded against the truth. Ephesians 2 is perfectly clear, but White can twist any Scripture to make it say what he wants. I wouldn't waste my time on him.

[@enonknives5449]

@@ant1k -- I was speaking generally, not specifically of his distortion of Ephesians 2. I have no interest in giving platform to his Satanic philosophy. You'll have to get it from the devil's mouth.

[@enonknives5449]

@@ant1k -- That's every Calvinist's excuse: "You just don't understand Calvinism." That's a lie. We DO understand it. That's why we reject it. Take your own advice -- explain why Leighton Flower's argument in this video is wrong.

[@jesuschristislord3512]

God bless you to continue in His word dividing and showing yourself approved unto God by studying and interpreting scripture with scripture! Thanks again for another awesome video on the truth of the word and our Lord Jesus Christ!

[@ss306s]

I think I have watched all your videos. They are all great. This one is especially good as it summarizes the view of salvation as a choice in a great way.

[@Lerato86]

Thank you very much for your wonderful work

[@clarkl4177]

So MUCH to UNlearn... Thanks be to God, who saves from the uttermost 🙏

[@LuisArmadaJr]

Dr. Flowers, could you provide the reference for the quote from John Calvin? It would be helpful when having a healthy debate.

[@Gernatch]

Keep it up Layton!!!

[@tivmego]

Weldone Dr. Over and over again we will continue to point them back to the Bible.

[@ladillalegos]

I love these little nuggets of wisdom

[@VincentWHolloway]

Really enjoying this format

[@MichaelHernandez-lc2wb]

Excellent! and I would like to add Romans 2:4-5 "Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? 5But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed." [ESV]

[@januarcustorio9322]

2Pe 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours.

[@SugoiEnglish1]

Hebrews 4:2 and all your passages fit with Calvinism. Thanks for making it clear that you can be a Calvinist or an Arminian and still follow Christ!

[@amck4648]

Thank God for the specificity of the Greek language!

[@qcbtbx]

Man, I love these!

[@user-gx4wi4cv2m]

The clip of Derek Webb really hits home. Good job Leighton.

[@Franci0242]

Your videos are absolutely awesome, thank u so much for all that you do for the body of Christ! I just have an honest question: how can we call Calvinists "friends" or "brothers"? Of course, we have to love them as Jesus commanded us to but it is a very unbiblical doctrine and it's not just a non-essential one because it affects everything. The bottom line is that they have another god, another jesus, another spirit and another gospel. They have a god who in fact is the author of evil and the author of sin, they have a jesus who didn't die for all but only for few lucky ones, and they have a spirit who only convicts some people and not others and who forces himself on them like a "spell" to make them have saving faith. They have a god who made us fall by predetermining it out of his secret counsel and then blames us for it. A god that is glorified by choosing people for hell (purposely or by default), a god that mocks us by telling us to choose him and to freely drink from the fountain of life when we cannot freely make that choice... They have a god who literally hates children in the womb and has predetermined their destruction for his own glory before the foundation of the world. They have a gospel and a bible where words like "all' and "world" are changed into "some" and "elect". Isn't that another god, another jesus and another gospel? Isn't that a cult? That's why I don't think we should have any compassion or tolerance for that. On top of that they must think they are so special because god chose only them... and how can they go out and preach the gospel by saying to the audience that Jesus died for them when they don't believe He actually died for all of them? Isn't that lying and also making God a liar? Anyways, I'm sorry if I sound harsh and I'm sure a lot of those who call themselves Calvinists are confused, deceived and don't completely know what they are believing in, but I think the doctrine should be called out for what it really is as it has infiltrated the church so much and it's deceiving it. In any case, thank you and God bless you!

[@kelseywarkentin4238]

I think historical theology- what the church has believed as a whole would say that you are looking at this too rigidly. Augustine was the OG on this, not Calvin and no one is worried if he is with God now. There are extremes in a lot of the church on both sides. To say that "Calvinists" are not Christian is not really to understand how the whole theological map has developed and is deciding who is in and who is not. The history of theology is more complex than you make it out to be. Its a spectrum. There are some who describe God in the terms you have laid out, but most Reformers in general would be appalled at your broad brush strokes. Presbyterians and Anglicans are technically Reformed too. George Whitefield and John Wesley were both powerful preachers who wanted to see the lost saved. One was "Calvinistic" and the other "Arminian". Please read Church history and history of theology and loosen up a bit. I am a Mennonite Brethren (Anabaptist) and enjoy Calvin and John Wesley. I am leaning more toward Calvin than Wesley but my desire to see the lost come to know Jesus has not diminished because of it. We as Christians need to come together and show more grace for other Christians. "Seek to understand and then be understood" -Stephen Covey (and yeah I know he is a Mormon, and no I am not saying he is a brother. Just a good perspective in life generally.)

[@nestorvargas7122]

Would be great to have Spanish subtitles available. Many many pastors in need of hearing this.

[@lukespowerart]

Once again Leighton, I appreciate the challenge that you make to Calvinism to keep us Calvinists on our toes. In your first point on Romans 1:20: you have conflated general revelation and special revelation. 1. General Revelation: God’s self disclosure to humanity through Creation. Not specific enough to allow for salvation, but enough information to secure the judgement of all of humanity. 2. Special Revelation: God as revealed in Scripture, down to the smallest detail that allows us the opportunity to gain salvation through faith in Christ. Calvinists don’t state: “you will be judged unless you believe, but you can’t believe.” What we state is that - unregenerate people are free to see God in creation. But blinded by the devil from seeing God in Scripture. That’s why God intervenes with regeneration and the gift of faith in order to save people. Check out these Scriptures: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.” - 1Corinthians 2:14 “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ...” - 2Corinthians 4:3-4

[@Soteriology101]

STRENGTH & HONOUR I have provided rebuttal to each of these arguments on the site and my books if you’re interested. Thanks for engaging in a cordial manner.

[@lukespowerart]

Hi Leighton, thanks for steering me to your books and the website - I’ll definitely have a look at your resources. However, KZbin is a public forum, therefore I think that your content here, should be debated on the platform. Happy to be cordial too, we’re both in Christ so why would we act otherwise?👍🏻 Aside from my obvious objections to Arminianism, based upon Scripture. There are also major philosophical objections to the Arminian position too. 1. Arminianism is a humanist philosophy. It claims human interests are of prime importance, instead of God’s interests. It claims human goodness and that humans have the ability to act without the hindrance of a fallen nature. That an injustice has occurred if every person hasn’t been given the opportunity for salvation equally. In short, humans can’t be wronged, they can’t be forced to miss out on something - for that’s unfair. But God, He can bend and twist and change to suit the salvation of humans, as if the cross was only about saving people and not at all about God and His glory? This creates a human centric Church; as we see in the Arminian Armada of mega churches. Where Christians are no longer grown in their relationship with God from Scripture, because the church services have become all about the unsaved - only! Human-centred! 2. Secondly, If a person refuses to worship God because they disagree with the way that God does something (like predestination) then Jesus is not Lord in that persons life. They are still on the throne! Whether you’re an Arminian or a Calvinist, if you refuse to submit to God because he saves in an “unfair” way, then do you really love God? Is not God being wronged more important than a human - being so called “wronged?” Why are Arminians so quick to defend people yet slow to defend God’s sovereign right to do as He wishes whilst still remaining 100% Holy & just? 3. Thirdly Protestantism up until the 20th century was dominated by Calvinist thinking. Look at the list to just name a few: Luther, Calvin, Zwingli, Tyndale, Knox, Bunyan, Owen, Edwards, Whitfield, Spurgeon, Lloyd Jones, MacArthur, Sproul etc...Could all of these men be deceived? Could all of them fail to handle Scripture correctly, when most of them (especially Luther, Calvin & Tyndale) could translate Scripture better than anyone alive today?

[@humbertothebeliever2443]

Amen Amen Amen and AMEN! Keep spreading the news about Calvanisms false doctrines and teachings. Spread the REAL GOSPEL OF SALVATION TO ALL which declares, For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that WHOEVER believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life....John 3:16

[@ingracebyfaith]

Beautiful! Thank you

[@darbyochill]

What’s even more frustrating is that Calvinists don’t actually believe faith is a gift because a gift is something that can be accepted or rejected. If I gift you a poop-flavored lollipop you’ll reject it, it was still my gift from me to you though, and that IS how many unbelievers view the concept of faith. But according to Calvinists, faith is more like a software program that God downloads into your brain (hardware). Would I ever call my software update to my computer a gift to my computer? Of course not because the computer has no say or ability to accept it freely or reject it (that’s what makes something a gift).

[@TheMaineSurveyor]

Jesus is the author of our faith. *Hebrews 12:1-2* Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NKJV)

[@makedisciples8653]

@@TheMaineSurveyor It’s all about Jesus, it’s not about a misinterpretation of “elect” He sets the conditions

[@silaschambers7413]

hearing that guy talking about calvinism actually made me cry

[@d0g_0f_Christ0s]

I pray that the A's & C's get over it, we both need each other if we are to endure to the end.

[@dionsanchez4478]

- From a commentary I use..."(I asked the following question from a Greek and Hebrew professor: "In this verse, to what does the word "that" refer to? Adam Clarke, Wesley & company say that it is neuter plural and "Faith" is feminine hence it cannot refer to faith, (Such an admission would destroy their theological system.) However "Grace" is also feminine as is "Salvation".'' His reply was: "Here you ask a wonderful theological/exegetical question to which I can only give an opinion, and not a definitive answer. The problem is that there is NO precise referent. Grace is feminine. Faith is feminine. And even Salvation (as a noun) is feminine. Yet it must be one of these three at least, and maybe more than one, or all three in conjunction. Since all three come from God and not from man, the latter might seem the more likely. However, it is a tautology to say salvation and grace are "nor of yourselves," and in that case it certainly looks more like the passage is really pointing out that man cannot even take credit for his own act of faith, but that faith was itself created by God and implanted in us that we might believe (i.e. the normal Calvinistic position). In which regard the whole theological issue of "regeneration preceding faith" comes into play. So, that is basically my opinion, though others obviously disagree strenuously, but from an exegetical standpoint, the other positions have to explain away the matter of the tautology.''

[@Dmlaney]

You dont know why Christians are trying to convince you... spoken like a true Calvinist

[@tommycapps9903]

Isn’t it very sad how Calvinist will corrupt even Ephesians 2:8-9 for there gnostic unbiblical beliefs?

[@sheilasmith7779]

This is such a fundamental concept, easy to understand based on the evidence of human nature, which God created. God created humans with a characteristic, called desire. We are designed with desire and because of that we are able to desire Him ( good) or to desire in and all that is not God. The choice of desire to reject God is the source of human evil.

[@mustang8206]

Faith is a gift just one given to all

[@gingrai00]

Excellent work.

[@DavidPaul1986]

Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV And you hath he quickened, who 𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 in trespasses and sins; Wherein 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄 𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐓 ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all 𝐇𝐀𝐃 our conversation 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐓 in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and 𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐄 by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we 𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) But BY GRACE OF GOD we are NO LONGER dead in trespasses and sins BY GRACE OF GOD we are NO LONGER walking according to the course of this world BY GRACE OF GOD we are NO LONGER the children of disobedience BY GRACE OF GOD we are NO LONGER fulfilling the desires of the flesh BY GRACE OF GOD we are NO LONGER the children of wrath AS OTHERS BY GRACE OF GOD we are SAVED FROM SINS Are you SAVED BY GRACE?

[@mikefreso6177]

I’ve always sided with provisionalism when it comes to soteriology, but it just hit me that when the Bible says “faith is gift from God” its basically proving free will lol. Because like you said it’s not an effectual work , we decide how we want to use that gift resulting in us choosing ultimately, just like we can decided how want to use our breath, talents , voice.

[@christianhalkides5707]

Thank you brother ❤️

[@DanielSadjadian]

I still don't get it. How do I force my heart to have faith? I understand how to pray and how to think/accept something in my mind and how to confess with my mouth. But how do I believe? How can I show God that my heart believes? What does it even mean when your heart believes in something? Thanks for your help and God bless you 🙏

[@haroldgamarra7175]

Through comunication with him in praying, study and obedience to his word, you will see Him in ways, non-believers can't see. Thus, you will develop more faith than the initial one which you showed, to accept salvation in the first place. In other words, go and look for Him the way He's already told us to, and He will be more real every day, and your faith stronger.

[@jimkraft9445]

It is a bit humorous that a man named Flowers would destroy a TULIP. Thank God this Flower can read and understand that what Jesus said is true. John 1:12.

[@mcgragor1]

I've heard arguments for Eph 2:8-10 and it is indeed a difficult passage. I would label it as not for or against the reformed position, but only based on the arguments from the Greek that I have heard. Otherwise, I've always recognized it as strongly supporting that even the faith to believe is a gift. Something I need to study out again as its been a while... With that said, Acts 11:18 is mentioned and we can see that the gentiles had no hope outside of the gospel. Paul also speaks of this. So even if I didn't lean reformed, we still have what I have always called "the election of circumstance", in that not everyone gets equal access to the gospel. Charles Spurgeon spoke of this when he said he could have been born to a tribe in Africa and raised worshiping snakes and such, but instead was born to Christian parents. Both sides of the debate struggle with this question somewhat, but the reformed side at least gives an answer in that all the elect will all be predestined, called, justified, and glorified. Paul says, "how can they hear without a preacher". At least with this, we know it for fact, in that history reveals that not everyone has heard the gospel, that millions have been raised in Communist or Hindu or Muslim countries and indoctrinated from their youth. This is an undeniable reality.

[@yodasoja2011]

I think Romans will help you on both these points! Firstly, I came across this is Romans a while back and thought it was a good rewording of Paul's words in Ephesians 2: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. Romans 3:23‭-‬25a ESV Justification by Grace is a gift which is "received by faith"! Seems pretty clear to me! Secondly, a provisionist would say everyone has enough to believe in God. Some people receive more Special Revelation than others, but everyone is presented with enough evidence to believe. See Romans 1: For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. Romans 1:18‭-‬20 ESV I hope this helps!

[@mcgragor1]

@@yodasoja2011 Interesting point on Romans 3. I want to go back and look at Eph 2:8-10 again for deeper study, so I'll have to take a look at this as well. Concerning Romans 1, I'm glad you recognize the difference between "general" and "special' revelation. While general revelation reveals there is a God and it does so through "the things that are made", it doesn't specifically reveal who this God is. Thus, the Indians worshiped the great spirit, the Muslims are Muslims, many in Utah are Mormons, the tribes in the bush worship snakes or whatever..and so on. While the Indians showed more faith than what came later after Marxism and the rise of Communism, they nevertheless didn't know Christ. How could they know unless they had a preacher? This is what Paul says also in Romans 10:14. If we are going to believe all of scripture concerning this, then general revelation is simply not enough to understand, know, and believe the gospel, which for example, the American Indian didn't know until the missionaries arrived.

[@jaygee2187]

Michael Arnold read 1 verse earlier. The righteousness of God is manifested, is revealed, has been demonstrated by the faith OF Christ. This righteousness that Christ demonstrated is unto all (towards all) and UPON all them that believe. When we believe in Jesus Christ, the faith that Christ demonstrated is accounted to us, and the righteousness, the perfect adherence to Gods standard that He achieved is put upon us, and we are justified by His faith. Ephesians 2:8 is not talking about faith being our belief, it is talking about faith being what Christ acted upon perfectly. We are saved through the perfect faith of Christ, which is UPON those who believe.

[@yodasoja2011]

@@mcgragor1 what then do you believe Paul means when he says "they are without excuse"? "Believe all of scripture"? What about Enoch, who pleased God without Special Revelation? What about Noah, who used General Revelation similar to his great-grandfather Enoch and pleased God by walking blamelessly? What of Job, who lived righteously even under temptation by Satan himself? You say it is impossible to be saved by responding to General Revelation, but I see examples of men responding to exactly that revelation, and then receiving special, personal revelation after their righteous response. It seems entirely possible for them to respond, and therefore absolutely nobody is without excuse, just like Paul says.

[@yodasoja2011]

@@jaygee2187 couple of things, friend. Firstly, I referenced 2 different sections of Scripture. So if you're going to tell me to read 1 verse earlier, please at least note which reference you're talking about. I'll assume it's the Romans 3 section since it kinda makes sense with what you're saying. Let's just post the whole context here for clarity: But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it- the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. Romans 3:21‭-‬26 ESV What in the world are you going on about? The first usage of the word "faith" here is "faith in Jesus Christ". That's not a faith Jesus holds (that would be "faith of Jesus Christ"), it's a faith we have in the work of Jesus Christ. If I said "I have faith in you" I'm clearly talking about my faith about you, not your faith. The second usage of "faith" is how the subject (all mankind) is to receive the gift of justification by grace. Faith is your belief in action. What do you think it means to "believe in Christ"? That's just a way to say you have faith. And the third usage of the word "faith" clearly flows from these first two usages. You are the one that holds a faith in Jesus in order to be justified. How do you order all this in your head? You think we believe (somehow without it being faith), then that belief credits us the "faith of Jesus"? Then this faith (Jesus'faith in God) gives us the righteousness of Christ (we become justified)? How do you come to this understanding? How is faith not the first step in this entire process? What is the difference between believing in Christ and "faith in Jesus Christ"?

[@meanman6992]

Excellent video

[@BloodBoughtMinistries]

Amen!

[@mustang8206]

Derek Webb makes an excellent point and for years of my life I struggled with doubt and even though I was not a Calvinist I often wondered maybe the Calvinists were right and I'm just someone who wasn't chosen

[@southernknight9983]

You are chosen, when you accept Christ's invitation to His kingdom. Everyone is invited, but who will accept this invitation? Will you?

[@jeffreybomba]

I would love a break down of Romans 5:1-2.

[@ShepherdMinistry]

If faith is a gift to all then what makes the one who chooses it special? Why does one person believe the gospel and another does not, given they both heard it? Is it because one is smarter? Has better reasoning capabilities? or possesses some other characteristic that allows him to realize the importance of the gospel message? What makes the one who chooses to believe different?

[@tommysuriel]

Free will.

[@ShepherdMinistry]

@@tommysuriel Why did you use your free will to choose Christ and the unbeliever did not? Was the deciding factor you or God?

[@tommysuriel]

@@ShepherdMinistry I would say the answer has to do with how much sin we have in our lives. I don't claim I was a saint when I started having faith but I think sin separates us from God and the more consumed by sin someone is the harder it is for them to see the truth. But i know where you're going with this, "so that no one could boast". I think it's possible that God was a 100% in control of me coming to Christ, and I give him all the glory, I just have a hard time believing limited atonement and the idea that there are people that have no chance of getting saved, it doesn't make sense.

[@ShepherdMinistry]

@@tommysuriel There are 4 Point Calvinists who deny limited atonement. However, even the non Calvinist has the same dilemma. Unless you’re an open theists and beleive God doesn’t know the future, you’re still stuck with God making individuals knowing they will never be saved.

[@ericbrackenridge7686]

Great video...Romans 6:23

[@ayekaye8055]

Eric Brackenridge amen. The real gift.

[@kenmeyertwo]

Brilliant

[@ogmakefirefiregood]

The General revelation of God in creation leaves men without excuse. This passage says nothing about the specific revelation of Scripture and the Gospel. Jesus said "My sheep hear my voice".

[@toktik8715]

I'm glad someone is finally pointing this out because Flowers makes this argument a lot. Men have no excuse that God doesn't exist and hasn't revealed who He is, what He is, where He is and why they should listen is what I also understand it to mean. ..

[@ogmakefirefiregood]

@TOK TIK great KZbin handle! We must try our best to let the Scriptures teach us, not us hammering verses into our own understanding 😉

[@toktik8715]

@@ogmakefirefiregood Shucks, thank you for your kind words. Cannot argue against what you said. May I be so bold to add to your statement....? With the help of the Spirit of Truth. High five bro 🤚

[@kodymorrison2662]

I definitely agree to your interpretation, but I have a few questions. Does this mean that no one is certain for salvation? Like if no one accepted then no one would be saved?

[@davidpallmann8046]

Yes, if no one believed, no one would be saved. Conversely if anyone stops believing they will cease being saved.

[@kll2220]

Dr. Flowers, one of the underlying assumptions of your perspective seems to be that it would be wrong of God to withhold the ability to believe from some people while giving that ability to others (and that cannot be true about God because that would make God a wrongdoer, and thus the Calvinistic doctrine of irresistible grace is unbiblical and even misrepresents God's character). Is that an accurate representation of your perspective? If so, can you explain why it would be wrong for God to give faith to some and not to others? Thanks.

[@davidpufahl1834]

Its wrong because the reprobate are going to suffer conscious eternal torment based on account of the fact that they did not believe something they were never ever capable of believing. Its very simple. You guys try to articulate mans fallenness in a way that he likes it. That works for the here and now to say, well the reprobate love their life while they are here so that's fair. However the big elephant in the room is that the here and now is nothing in relation to eternity. It would be like telling my son i've hidden a toy in my room somewhere and telling him if he doesn't find it he will be grounded for the rest of his life. The kicker is I never actually hid a toy in there to begin with, so what I'm asking him to do is impossible. He is damned no matter what, just as fallen man is. If man is totally unable to respond to God from birth then this plea or call of the Gospel is nothing but a smokescreen and cruel. If your response to this is; so what? Then you've gone too far down the rabbit hole to even try and engage in a fruitful discussion. Lastly, to be very fair and objective ill leave it at this. The only way I can see someone affirming Calvinsim and being consistent logically and more importantly consistent with Gods character, they would have to affirm an annihilationist view of hell. That people aren't actually tormented, they simply cease to exist. At that point I think i could see a picture in which the faithful go to be with Christ in all his glory for eternity and everyone and everything else no longer exists. This is the only way I see Calvinism being tenable and I would venture to guess most people watching these videos would agree. God Bless!

[@kll2220]

@@davidpufahl1834 Thanks for your response. The main issue I see with your perspective is that I think you're essentially assuming an innocence on the part of man that he does not have. You're assuming that men deserve to have the opportunity to believe, and I think you're also assuming a neutrality that man does not have. (Perhaps you would strongly deny that, but, to me, that seems to be where you have to end up.) If it is true that men are born sinners (which can hardly be taught more clearly in scripture), then the reality is no man deserves any grace from God whatsoever. And it isn't as if we are really wanting to seek God but we just don't have the ability to because of God's cold and calloused refusal to grant it to us. The reality is, in our fallen nature, we cannot believe because we WILL not believe. We hate God by our very nature as fallen sons of Adam. We lack the ability because we lack the will. All this is to say, if we would charge God with wrongdoing on the part of man, we are assuming that man deserves something good from God. But God owes us nothing but wrath. I believe you believe that too... I just think that you're inconsistent in your application of it. I think this is Paul's point in Romans 9 when he says "Who are you, O man, to answer back to God?" (Perhaps your objection here would be that Romans 9 is not about salvation, but I believe the flow of text from Romans 8 into Romans 9 pretty clearly shows it is about salvation.) And no, I do not believe in an annihilationist view of hell, because my offense against an eternal God deserves an eternal punishment. Thanks be to God he has been pleased not to give me what I deserve! I understand where you're coming from with the illustration you gave, but it has a few problems as far as representing what Calvinists actually believe. First, no Calvinist (that I know of) believes God makes arbitrary commands like that would be to your son. There would be no purpose in doing that to your son, obviously. It would just be to be cruel. God has great purposes in his redemption of a specific people - which is his glory. Also, I assume your son does not hate you or want to kill you. :) He is not, in that case, bent on his own destruction. We could genuinely say he is a neutral or innocent party in that particular case. But as fallen sons, we are running away from the giver of life and toward our own destruction. That's our nature until God turns us away from it. So no, my response is not "so what?" I do not believe man is neutral, and I do not believe God is a puppeteer who decides to save some of his puppets and damn others arbitrarily. That's an unfortunate caricature of the true Calvinistic conception of God. I appreciate your willingness to engage with me! Looking forward to your response.

[@everytingYay]

@@kll2220 K LL Thank you for your response. I hope to hear a response from Soteriology 101 on your view

[@diegovisoso408]

Good stuff.

[@dm-hz5ux]

Ok so my family isnt religious but I feel like I might believe in god but I'm scared that if I believe I believe that my parents and brothers will go to hell for not believing I dont know.

[@vnzlb]

“my girlfriend is Arminian, I’m Calvinist. Should we break it off? 🥲” -asking for a friend.

[@tommysuriel]

I see it's been 2 years, what did you do? My case is the opposite, except I'm not Armenian just not calvinist and I don't really care as long as we're both in Christ.

[@TheLastSinner]

I am honestly curious what occurred

[@jaredkaufy]

You said that no one lacks what's necessary for their salvation at 8:22. What if a person never hears about Jesus in their life? That seems necessary.

[@sfcpace8992]

How do I get in contact with Professor Fowler?

[@jaygee2187]

Sergeant Pace Ministry it’s Flowers, not Fowler.....but at least you didn’t call him Professor Foulest. 😉

[@toktik8715]

I'm just quoting Flowers. The truth is. All we are able to do could be seen as a gift from God. End quote. Now if I were to follow the Chief Logicians Logic We would come to the conclusion that the evil we do comes from God. The ultimate paradox! I must be really dumb, I see a lot of comments stating how simple it is...

[@artistart55]

Calvinism is something to be concerned about but we have to come to a point when we have to call the TULIP a cult. I would enjoy listening to a conversation about the baptism of the Holy Spirit Christianity in a nutshell

[@christthinker6345]

If I may, is it possible that the Christ passages here are like they are because of the limiting of his omniscience on Earth?

[@meanman6992]

Another issue, note their presuppositions of specific words. That's NOT how translations work!!! Translators go off the defined meaning of a word as found in the dictionary!

[@enonknives5449]

True. When a Calvinist invents three definitions for every word, it is easy for him to pick the definition he needs to create the outcome he desires. He doesn't draw meaning from the text; he imposed meaning on the text.

[@jamesjohnson8918]

Rms 1:18&19 will solve all of these issues

[@mariepybus3237]

Amen

[@KISStheSON...]

Nobody is created for destruction. We are created empty vessels, we store up for ourselves that which we will fill ourselves with. Upon hearing the truth, we must humble ourselves and purge ourselves of the lies that we were fed from our youth. We tend to protect the traditions that we were fed considering them treasures idolizing them. We must be willing to hear and learn of our error that we hold to as if it were the truth and turn from our idols and accept the truth at the risk of losing everything. Such as a crush to the ego, lose of family, friends, finances, even your life for Jesus' namesake.

[@jolookstothestars6358]

Its a shame he says, "Your own Bible says." He should have said," Calvanist theory says."

[@mandygainey312]

Around minute-mark-8, Dr. Flowers, you said God grants faith and repentance….. I feel like that’s contradicting what you’re saying through the whole video. God granting faith sounds the same to me as God giving some the ability to have faith and some to not have that ability.🧐🧐 I’m pretty sure that’s not how you intended that to be heard but could you help explain what you meant?

[@Daniel12.4Ministry]

In Ephesians 2:8, there is great simplicity if understood through the original intent. The word "saved" is thought to be Greek word 4982 "sozo" -- Though in Ephesians 2:8 the word is "σεσῳσμένοι" transliterated as "sesosmenoi" This is a compound word made up of the rootwords G-4982 & G-3306. 3306 is a word that means a continuation of something. Therefore the correct translation of Ephesians 2:8 is this = For by grace are ye being saved. It is not the salvation that is the free gift, but the grace. Grace is what cleanses us when we convert. Salvation = the grace of God + our faith. Faith is Greek word πίστεως which is a VERB Hebrews 11:1 "Faith is the substance of what is hoped for , evidence of what is not yet seen. Substance = something physical & tangible Evidence = proof Faith = the physical proof of what we hope for and yet do not see. (we do not see salvation until we face judgment day - well done my good and faithful servant) Faith is the evidence of what we trust to be true in Christ demonstrated through how we live.

[@davidpufahl1834]

Whenever i say to my Calvinist friend what Dr. Craig explains in the video, that salvation as a whole is the gift he just says ok whatever, faith is still apart of salvation. He says if salvation is indeed the gift, then faith is a part of that gift so it really makes no difference to the understanding of the text on his part. He says you don't think God would give you a gift that requires batteries and not provide them too, do you? So what should my response be?

[@beeforeal5497]

You should tell your friend that if he buys you a car that you'll supply the gas and still be very grateful for his free gift to you.

[@yodasoja2011]

I think you can point to the beginning of this video. Where does the Bible say the faith is an effectual gift? We are each responsible for how we use the gifts God gives us!

[@yodasoja2011]

Also check out Romans 3: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. Romans 3:23‭-‬25a ESV Sure looks like Paul is talking about the same thing here, and it's clear that justification by Grace is a gift that is "received by faith". The Calvinist would have to say there are two gifts here, and the first can only be received by a different gift. Seems kinda convoluted/ad hoc

[@tophatt5706]

I'd listen to the friend more, sounds like he's on the right track.

[@davidpufahl1834]

@@beeforeal5497 Thanks, I like that!

[@jamesjohnson8918]

Joshua 4:6-9.

[@dannykirby7425]

Jesus asked the question because it’s a true statement, God is not obligated to show mercy to everyone, but that don’t mean that the sinners of the world are not responsible, all have a free will, and all are responsible for their actions , but thank God that He came to some of us and showed us mercy. The Calvary came rushing in at Calgary Instead of being arrogant and insisting that you saved yourself, you should all fall on your knees and give thanks for the mercy God has shown on you.

[@dannykirby7425]

God has not chosen Derick for hell, but Derick by his on admission has chosen his path , he cannot see or hear, yes he said it himself, he is dead in his sin, God is never obligated to give mercy to him or anyone else. God may open his eyes later, or simply give Derick justice. All receive either justice, or mercy. And there’s absolutely nothing unjust about that.

[@BM5K007]

Calvinism so muddy’s the waters, it’s dangerous

[@irmaodebanco8079]

The gift of God is salvation, eternal life, as He is the only one capable of creating such a eternal place for believers. Eternal life cant come from human works once eternal life is a spiritual work, and only God is spirit now. We are just flesh and bones. We got no spiritual power nor work. But faith is a gift from God for all humans, all... Pay attention to calvinist faiths. Each group bilieve in a calvinist version which they consider, on their own, is the true representation of Calvin "biblical" ideas. One choose cheung's version, other piper's version... I wonder how such irresistible gift got so many versions and how each believer can choose irresistibly which they prefer.

[@tst128]

Bottom line question is, who saved you? If it's your faith and not Jesus then he is not your saviour. Your faith is your savior.

[@chrisstevens1156]

Since Jesus died for every single person, i can have assurance i am saved because it says that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will receive proptiation thru faith romans 3:25, Hebrews 2:9, 2:17, 1 john 2:2 hebrews 9:5 hebrews 4:15. Eternal life is a gift received thru faith. The atonement saves no one. You must have faith. Faith h is not a work. The Calvinist has no assurance of salvation because Jesus only died foe the elect. Not everyone. So you cant know for certain you are saved, so you trust currently in your WORKS and for all you know, tommorrow you may fall away.

[@haroldgamarra7175]

Faith without Jesus, would be like trying to avoid drowning, by holding to a life buoy that doesn't exist.

[@Daniel12.4Ministry]

FAITH = πίστεως -- which is a VERB. SAVED = σεσῳσμένοι -- which is a compound word made up of G-4982 & G-3306 - and translates properly to "being saved" You can easily prove this with a good transliteration where in verse 5 offers the same text and translates in the LITERAL translation as "for by grace you are being saved". This simplicity proves that there are many that teach great error concerning many related doctrines, giving a false sense of security to many, that they are saved eternally and can't lose it. God damn the false teachers.