The Shocking Excuse Calvinism Gives To Unbelievers 😮

[@heathereads9594]

As a recovering Calvinist, I really appreciate how you always approach every topic from a position of brotherly love. Thanks for that 💜

[@Philip3]

I doubt you were knowledgeable in reformed theology

[@jtcharland]

@@Philip3 spoken like a true Calvinist 🙌🏻

[@heathereads9594]

@@Philip3 I was brought up in Tom Ascol's church, learned all of my theology from R.C. Sproul and Ligonier Ministries, and only followed Calvinistic preachers and read books by Calvinistic authors. I'd ONLY known Reformed Theology for my first 20 years as a believer. It's only been this last year that I've come to realize how wrong it is and the great spiritual and emotional damage it has to done to me, personally, as well as to my family.

[@heathereads9594]

@@Philip3 Ironically, last year, I spoke with a pastor that had an internship at our church under Tom Ascol twenty years ago and he confessed that he has also left the Reformed faith because he realized how awful it was and how greatly it misrepresented God.

[@truth7416]

@@Philip3 Is that the best you can say to a dear one of God's children? Heather escaped the schemes of the Devil of Calvinism and you say she didn't understand the Heresy? It's you that doesn't understand the false "bad news gospel" of DEFORMED THEOLOGY. Your like talking to a JW or Morrmon. They don't think they just reload a standard come back answer and fire away. Whether its in context or not. But they never think for themselves. That would take a will. Free Will!

[@shannonsundby5725]

Sometimes I read all of these comments just to remind myself that there really are others out there who don't adhere to Calvinism. Most days I feel like I'm on an island all alone. I know from these videos and people commenting that others are out there. I've been praying to find a church or that God would bring the church to me. But for now I feel alone in the middle of an overwhelming sea of Calvinism everywhere I turn. I have spent 18 years in the Catholic Church, 4 years adrift and 28 years naively immersed in Calvinism. The past three years has been an intense Spiritual journey to know God and know His Word...so much baggage to untangle. I am grateful God has opened my eyes. I am grateful for the ability to learn online. I am grateful for the comments posted that remind me I'm not alone in the convictions and understanding I'm coming to in God's Word.

[@quinnpeterson2716]

That’s remarkable considering that Calvinists make up 2.7% of the Christian population today (and that’s being generous according to the pole)

[@NitoLFC12]

It’s weird reading your comment… most of church today is Arminian theology….. and I spent my life in Pentecostal Arminian theology church … God has shown me the truth of His gospel, that happens to be doctrines of grace (Calvinism)…. I didn’t even know it was called Calvinism…. I understood the doctrines of grace before i saw TULIP….. so… and I feel like I’m on a island… surrounded by a bunch of Arminianism

[@johnknight3529]

@@NitoLFC12 - "God has shown me the truth of His gospel, that happens to be doctrines of grace (Calvinism)…." How did He show you that? What did you experience that convinced you the doctrines of Grace were the Truth of the gospel?

[@NitoLFC12]

@@johnknight3529 I read the book of Roman’s, and also the book of Ephesians after reading and hearing the first four gospels (audio/bible) ……. Came to understand that God is the one who saves man, man can not chose God, until God gives him the ability to do so…. The call is for all men everyone to repent but because of their depravity and love for sin, they can not respond…. Until God makes man alive…. Even while being dead in their sins and trespasses….. understanding this helped me understand predestination and election and the perseverance of the saints…. That those who have been truly saved, will not be lost….. that’s How God showed me His truth of the Gospel, I then eventually learned that there was a list of doctrines which are the doctrines of grace (TULIP)

[@mastershake4641]

@@NitoLFC12 Are you saying Gods call is not strong enough to get through to the depraved? God is limited and cannot reach us because our wills over power him? So much for God's sovereignty.

[@jakeofalltradesmusic]

I know James White and other major Calvanist figures are aware of Leighton Flowers and his arguments, and so when they demonstrate they're aware of the arguments but never address his arguments for what they are, I have to wonder if James White and others like him are holding onto their theology out of pride.

[@scottyfleming2203]

The answer is yes..yes they are

[@godsstruggler8783]

And idolatry. Calvinism becomes an idol that must be defended with all one's might.

[@a.k.7840]

Could also be spiritual blindness...

[@Philip3]

You should watch the debate between White and Flowers on Romans 9. James White gave good arguments from the reformed side

[@a.k.7840]

if you do watch that debate, make sure you watch it from Flowers' source so that you'll see the slides he used.

[@Smerm]

I was never involved in Calvinism but have been studying about it for a few years. Much of its doctrines are infiltrating many churches so we need people like you to expose the errors of their teachings. The more I learn about it, the more disturbing I find it. Thank you for your commitment and steadfastness in showing why biblically Calvinism has much wrong with it.

[@Khoff321]

Wonderful points as always. Been watching your videos for a few months now. Was approached with calvinism by another believer and immediately knew it was unbiblical but didn’t know every reason why. Now I feel totally confident in the common sense basic believer knowledge that Christ is available to ALL people. These videos have solidified my beliefs like steel in the truth and I’m grateful. Keep up the great work Leighton!

[@diggerdan6765]

Standing up and clapping 👏 YOU NAILED IT !! 🔨 NOT too difficult !! The word of faith that we preach, it’s not too difficult to believe in your heart, and confession is made unto salvation.

[@sweethometreasures]

Dr Flowers, thank you so much for your videos. I unknowingly started attending a Calvinist church. Praise God, I had enough scripture knowledge to know that something was very "off". Then I believe the Lord led me to your KZbin page where I am just getting confirmed left and right by all of your teaching. The Bible is clear, TULIP is wrong. Thank you again, and God bless!

[@truth7416]

Happy for you Sara. You have ducked a bullet and untold pain that was coming your way if you had stayed in that hive! Truth in Love

[@tauisuitonu8505]

Isn’t is strange? You know it’s off, but can’t put your finger on it. Once you are out of there you can fully breathe and be free. What a trap!

[@truth7416]

@@tauisuitonu8505 That is why it is so important to know what Calvinism is flat out. I do and I can hear their spin in almost every sentence. Why? It is because out of the overflow of the heart their mouth speaks! Their Calvi-god is as discusting as Islam teaches the same doctrine as Calvinism. According to Islam, Allah is absolutely deterministic. As Caner and Caner write: One of the foundational doctrines of Islam is the absolute sovereignty, to the point of determinism, of Allah. Allah knows everything, determines everything, decrees everything, and orders everything. Allah is even the cause of evil (Unveiling Islam, p. 109). It follows that Allah predestines all who will be saved and all who will be eternally damned. Of those who cannot be saved, Surah 2:6-7 states: It follows that Calvinism and Islam are both inherently fatalistic. In Calvinism, the sovereign God elects those who will be saved and rejects all others, as seen repeatedly in Calvin’s writings: …some are preordained to eternal life, others to eternal damnation; and, accordingly, as each has been created for one or other of those ends, we say that he has been predestined to life or death (Institutes, 3.21.5). The reason they share the same Theology is that they come from the same source of inspiration! They all are writing down the Doctrine of Demons they embrace and willingly! [God] arranges all things by his sovereign counsel, in such a way that individuals are born, who are doomed from the womb to certain death…(Institutes, 3.23.6). In the same way, Allah leads astray whom he wills, and saves whom he wills (Surah 14:4): Therefore the Calvin god and the Islam god are the same being. Both Cults use the same job description of Satan himself! Jesus said this to the false teachers through out all generations! Matthew 23: 27 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. 28In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. Truth In Love

[@PETERJOHN101]

@@truth7416 👍

[@gregorylatta8159]

Calvinism is a wolf in sheep's clothing!!!

[@STAR-RADIANCE]

Amen brother. It’s good that we have the “choice” (to respond to God and receive Christ)! Otherwise we’re all doomed whether we believe it or not

[@amadeusasimov1364]

Calvinism: "It's not like you can just hear the gospel and believe it or something! That'd be ridiculous. No, we have to insert some silly heart regenerating stuff first, yes, that's clearly more reasonable."

[@leehighland5435]

Basically the calvinists say, you have to be saved first, before you can believe and be saved. It's crazy, but that is what they believe.

[@ellisrowe363]

JW and other Calvinists say, you don't understand Calvinism. Truth is they do not understand provisionism!

[@cecilspurlockjr.9421]

They simply dont care to .

[@d.carpenter7519]

Having fallen for the Calvinist snake oil for a time, I laugh when they tell me this. This is one of the cultic aspects of Calvinism.

[@ellisrowe363]

@@d.carpenter7519 well said!

[@MrCurtis61]

Dr. L You are an excellent teacher I used to believe Calvinism was some "wispy" too hard to grasp concept but clearly you let the Bible interpret the Bible and disprove Calvinism time and time again , Love you Brother, keep up the Awesome work!

[@Galdyutube]

The BIBLE says : « it is not too difficult », JW says » it is too difficult » CHOOSE today who you want to TRUSTor SERVE, as far as I am concern MOI ET MA MAISON NOUS SERVIRONS L’ÉTERNEL

[@truth7416]

Calvinists don't need Christ. They only need a lottery win salvation pass. The cross is not necessary! Repentance for the forgiveness of sins is not necessary ! Only getting picked is necessary! Yet not one Calvinist can say ever on Earth that they know 100% for sure they are picked "Elect"! The crazy part is that they defend this insane position to the teeth. It is like Islam. Calvinism is NOT Christianity. I can say that with 100% certainty. Truth in love

[@truthseeker5698]

So succinct!!! Ty very much Truth.

[@claytonbenignus4688]

That raises an interesting point. All Scripture is there for a Reason, to edify someone. Even the Genealogies are meant to edify Archaeologists. Just how does Calvinism edify anyone? I am either saved or damned and I won’t know until Judgement Day, and I can’t do anything about it. It’s useless information! Ergo, it cannot be Scriptural.

[@truth7416]

@@claytonbenignus4688 Right on Clayton ! Nothing makes people hate God faster than Calvinism. Nothing turns people into Atheists faster than Calvinism! Nothing kills hope and love faster than Calvinism! Calvinism is nothing more than a group of puffed up intellectuals without any spiritual discernment from the holy spirit. It's just a topic of verbal gymnastics. They become fools with a mission, to make foolishness the things of God that they WILL NOT ACCEPT! Their songs sound like this "Jesus loves me, this I know. As for you, I don't think so. Only some to Him belong. We are right and you are wrong. Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! But I hope this isn't effervescent grace that I'm walking in and instead I'm actually deceived and one of the reprobates that He created to burn as a candle for His glory in Hell forever." TRUTH IN LOVE

[@miguelxpinell]

Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ! Respond to His call... Is not to difficult. Perfect!

[@tonyromero8284]

I found a few weeks ago and very happy with your teachings it has taught me about Calvinist witch I used to think it was a good thing but now I know it’s false teachings and it’s another gospel

[@christianmollo3239]

“Not unless you are one of the Blessed ones… Like us Calvinists !” Absolutely Nails it !! That’s Calvinism in a nutshell. and it’s awful !! How many were turned away from accepting the truth after hearing such egotistical selfish garbage ?? Calvinism is evil.

[@kevinkleinhenz6511]

In all fairness I feel like JW struggled here because it was an O.T. verse he was being asked about and he couldn’t read it in Greek out loud and thus distract his audience from recognizing he has no answer.

[@cecilspurlockjr.9421]

😆 🤣 😂 pretty good !

[@johnknight3529]

But, any answer he might give, is him conforming to the will of God, every bit as much as the Calvinist might give in your opinion, is it not, sir? Or, are you implying he's serving his own self-interest somehow?

[@cecilspurlockjr.9421]

@@johnknight3529 are you saying that you've never witnessed JW being dishonest or purposefully misrepresent Leighton and other noncalvinist for his calvinist agenda ? I've witnessed this many times . And the term " conforming " to the will of GOD is kind of a blanket statement isn't it my friend ? In what way are you claiming that JW conformed to the will of GOD with his statement because not all things conform to the will of GOD and this is why hell hath enlarged herself .

[@a.k.7840]

I like it when he goes into the Greek. It reaffirms that my English translation has been very well translated!

[@a.k.7840]

@@cecilspurlockjr.9421 He's just doing what inevitably must happen when a sinner ascribes to a fatalistic system. Using it as an excuse to say/ do whatever he likes.

[@kezron7498]

Brother Leighton, know you are appreciated!!

Straight to the point as usual. Congrats and may the Lord keep on sustaining your ministry.

[@MiniMaker68]

Hearing the passion for the Truth today inspired me Greatly! Righteous anger is tricky, but you are a great example!

[@darbyochill]

Huge problem for Calvinism: Why would you ever tell someone to turn to Christ and believe the Gospel so as to receive heaven, if you believe that that is just as impossible as working your way to receive heaven?

[@johnknight3529]

Why indeed also if you believe it's inevitable that they will eventually "turn to Christ and believe the Gospel so as to receive heaven" regardless of what you or anyone else suggest they ought to do, if that's what God preordained before there was a world? Either way, it seems to be superfluous on Calvinism, as the logicians say . . which leaves the door wide open to getting "hooked" on other, more self-centric concerns, it seems to me.

[@makedisciples8653]

@@johnknight3529 Gnosticism

[@R.L.KRANESCHRADTT]

5:08 Leighton, never apologize for Godly passion. It's not as if you're whipping people and turning over tables and stuff🤔😎

[@cecilspurlockjr.9421]

White sarcasticly says it's not too difficult for Isreal to make these decisions but he obviously forgets that Israel was a chosen elect people .

[@Thehappybirder]

It seems to me that in a Calvinist worldview, there is no need for repentance.

[@timothyFox7143]

it's not to difficult for Calvinist to twist scriptures.

[@truth7416]

Satan started twisting scripture in the Garden."Did God really say" That was the beginning of Calvinism! It has evolved through out the centuries and Calvinists today use the same words. "Does God really love everyone? Does God really want to save everyone? Did God really die on the cross for the sins of the whole World? and in their pride they put their own hands up and sing silently in their hearts: "Jesus loves me, this I know. As for you, I don't think so. Only some to Him belong. We are right and you are wrong. Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! But I hope this isn't effervescent grace that I'm walking in and instead I'm actually deceived and one of the reprobates that He created to burn as a candle for His glory in Hell forever." TRUTH IN LOVE

[@ellisrowe363]

Amen! They always teach the opposite of what Scripture teaches with respect to salvation.

[@kyloooooo]

No we just understand faith is a gift.

[@LindsayJackel]

@@kyloooooo I don't think you do "understand".

[@tannerfrancisco8759]

@@kyloooooo You have to accept a gift. A gift cannot be forced upon you. Most of the Calvinist's I know aren't even born again. It's all theory and metaphor to them. They don't have the working faith--they don't trust God to act on His promises which is true faith. All they have is the blind faith of the world, wishful thinking, and psychological tricks. So many Calvinists act like God is a rapist and kidnapper who they fell in love with from Stockholm syndrome. It's a delusion and a God of their own making. It's who the devil would be if he were God--not who God is.

[@kyloooooo]

@@tannerfrancisco8759 "Most of the Calvinist's I know aren't even saved" Of so now you're the judge? Just because you don't understand reformed theology doesn't mean you get to act as the judge. "So many Calvinists act like God is a rapist and kidnapper who they fell in love with from Stockholm syndrome" Seriously??? What the heck is wrong with you? You REALLY absolutely don't understand calvinism, don't try to tell me you do, it's obvious you don't. I'm not even going to respond to you with those kind of ignorant and blatantly stupid comments. You need to check yourself dude, you're way off base and that's completely inappropriate.

[@djohnson3093]

@@kyloooooo May I ask where in scripture that you find faith is a gift? Thanks!

[@annakimborahpa]

To faithfully represent an opponent's viewpoint is antithetical to Calvinism because it is a 'take no prisoners' theology. According to John Calvin, you are 'elect' or you are 'damned', therefore the end justifies the means in discrediting the opposition. For Dr. White, it's either Jamesway or the highway, but in the end the former chain store declared bankruptcy in 1995.

[@S.and.I.Productions]

Very well said!

[@red58impala]

1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.

[@MyWerttrew]

Thank you Leighton, God Bless.

[@SSNBN777]

Looking back from the day of my new birth, God was always gently calling, using life's pivotal situations, and setting me up to make a choice to follow Him, or take the morally destructive path. He's always working with us, within the boundaries of free will. I think He'll take drastic measures at times, to shape our decisions, for our own good, but in the end, like those whom He called during His ministry, it is our decision to follow Him wholeheartedly, walk with Him for just a little while, or turn Him down completely.

[@heathereads9594]

I see that same pattern in my life, too. What a precious Father!

[@truth7416]

@@heathereads9594 I agree. That is I believe the process God uses with every person that He has made and sustains in our lives here. God in His love always funnels us towards Himself. We can run but we can't hide from the Love of God knocking on our Hearts! Truth in Love

[@johnknight3529]

" He's always working with us, within the boundaries of free will." I believe that too, and just one example was the time I was riding in a car with a couple of friends, and the radio spoke of the new Pope choosing to name himself 'John Paul". I wasn't a believer, and had no particular interest in what the Pope chose to call himself, but I said to my friends that it seemed odd that there was no mention that this was the second Pope to call himself that, after the last one passed away after just few weeks One friend (who was raised Catholic) asked me what in the world I was talking about, since the Pope that had just passed away had been Pope for a long time, and was not named John Paul. I was bewildered, because I was quite sure that I had heard that a Pope named himself John Paul a few weeks prior, and again asked if he was sure this was not the second Pope to go by that name? He said of course, and again questioned what in the world I was talking about? I remained completely convinced I had heard that a first John Paul had passed away after just a few weeks, however, and stared out the window wondering what was going on . . thinking this new Pope was going to die quite soon . . Which came to pass, and the next Pope named himself John Paul also. It didn't have much impact on my religious beliefs, I was a "strong agnostic" at the time and remained so for years to come. But that experience, and a few others that were similarly "out of place" if there was not something more going on in this world than I was aware of, surely remained in my "subconscious" anyway. And I suspect that lingering awareness of "odd" goings on, contributed to me eventually respectfully asking a God I did not believe existed, to alleviate my ignorance "if that is Your will".

[@makedisciples8653]

@@johnknight3529 That’s good John and i can identify with that. The Holy Spirit (among other things) is convicting the world of sin. I could not deny that or that God placed eternity in every (as in every) humans heart.

[@JStevensdk7]

Almost as terrible as the excuses Calvinists give to those who fall away and reject Christ. This was a horrible quote from a Calvinist regarding another Calvinist leaving the faith. "IT's not by our power or might that we persevere or preserve till the end, it is only by God's power and gift of faith" God picks and chooses who he will make as a believer and He can then take that away at any time. Calvinism is truly a different gospel and absolutely horrid and putrid.

[@skywalker9770]

I've been a fan of John piper for over a decade but now I feel I have to analyse all of his statements, sermons and books when I read them. Sorting the wheat from the chaff sounds like hard work and I'm not a scholar so I may not grasp his errors as quickly and intuitively as someone like Dr Flowers.... advice?

[@JohnQPublic11]

I can't think of any criticisms involving logical reasoning you'd ask a Calvinist where you didn't get a shocking lame implausible excuse!

[@ronneff5894]

James White has a consistent habit of misrepresenting those who show the errors of Calvinism.

[@dw6528]

*HOW WE KNOW PAUL IS NOT A CALVINIST* 1) In Calvinism - where a person is decreed to do [X] then NOT doing [X] is NOT GRANTED to that person. 2) In Calvinism - where a person is NOT decreed to do [X] then doing [X] is NOT GRANTED to that person. If Paul is a Calvinist - then he believes (1 & 2) above are infallibly true So then in the case of (1) above - why would Paul tell someone - doing [X] is "not too difficult" for them - when he knows doing [X] is NOT GRANTED to them? And in the case of (2) above - why would Paul tell someone - doing [X] "is not too difficult" for them - when he knows NOT doing [X] is NOT GRANTED to them? ANSWER Because Paul does not believe (1 & 2) above Which shows quite clearly that Paul is not a Calvinist.

[@a.k.7840]

On calvinism, even those in Christ are still totally unable. You can never avoid The things that you do If the reason you do Isn't due to you.

[@Myrdden71]

For James White to claim that Provisionists do not believe that man is dead in his sins is a lie. And he knows it. You're a much kinder man than I am to give him the benefit of the doubt, Dr. Flowers. You have to be made alive to choose life? What kind of nonsense is that? Calvinism's theological pretzels are worthy of the best bakery in Paris. If I'm been made alive, there IS NOT 'choosing life' for me to do! Utter nonsense.

[@saraircrew8517]

It's not too hard for them to except the truth....it's impossible! Good grief.

[@PETERJOHN101]

Spot on, Leighton. 👍

[@JonathanGrandt]

Calvinism isn’t for unbelievers, it is designed for the purpose of undermining the assurance of believers.

[@micearn1]

BEAUTIFULLY SAID! I call calvinists believers who are in partnership with devil to attack the already saved! Since the devil can't get them unsaved, he'll have them believing falsehoods.

[@tonyromero8284]

And James white is totally wrong

[@cecilspurlockjr.9421]

That's quite common actually .

[@icilahmb]

Shouldn’t the question be that if they are already regenerated… This means they would not need to be exhorted to repent! The level of deception from James White is astounding.

[@bobbyadkins6983]

Never apologize for getting passionate about the truth.

[@oprophetisfake9482]

Be civil, be respectful? I find it difficult to be respectful of Calvinism. It really is another gospel for the chosen few. For the unchosen majority it is the opposite of the good news. Calvinism says to the majority that they are sinners because the god of Calvinism never gave them a chance to be anything else. They were born to live lives of sin because that is what the god of Calvinism chose and yet the same god will send them to hell for sins they never had the chance to stop committing. They pervert the Bible by putting faith and works on the same side of the equation when Paul put them on opposite sides. Exercise of faith is grabbing hold of the life preserver that God has thrown you. It is nothing to _your _ merit. The merit and the glory belong all to God.

[@alil6547]

Nope! No faith and works on the same side of the equation considering that it’s all God and God is the one who chooses us, we receive Him not by the will of man but after He transforms our hearts you ignorant worthless waste of space. John 1 says this and since you don’t like what the Bible says, you pretend John Calvin is relevant to the discussion and bring up how he burned people, as if what the doctrine he discovered is invented. Anything someone says that you don’t like got their information from something harmful right?

[@johnknight3529]

It seems to me, that the ramifications of full Calvinist doctrine, entrain the impossibility that the Calvinists could be wrong about any interpretation(s) of Scripture, owing to their own biases or misunderstanding, since the doctrines mandate that God is causing them to believe what they do. They are, by default, conforming to God's will . . which means, of course, that so are the people who disagree with them about any interpretations of Scripture(s). To even question what one believes of any such interpretations is therefore to question God's "sovereignty". And the logical response by the Calvinist is to refuse to even consider the possibility that they are the one's being misled about what some Scripture means to the Author of it, for that would be resisting God's will for them to make of it what they do, even if it's not what God Himself meant when He Authored it. And hence, holding fast to whatever they make of Scripture(s), whether right or wrong to the mind of God, becomes an expression of faith in Him . . and a complete absolution of responsibility on their part, to get it Right. Remaining Wrong, if they are, is the highest responsibility they can have. In short, Mr. Flowers might as well be speaking to a wall, as far as the full-blown Calvinist is concerned . . as far as I can tell. Not considering what he is trying to tell them is Holiness itself.

[@syciuplyte8494]

If what the calvinists say is true, then there is no point in preaching the gospel

[@SpielbergMichael]

This is brilliant!

[@elliejames9465]

If Calvanism is false and I believe it is, how can you call them brothers? Something that starts out wrong doesn't become right without repentance.

[@stealths15]

Why not create a page in your site that is like a test if one knows provisionism (or arminianism, etc), that we can send to Calvinists to answer if they really knew provisionism? It will have score in the end to show them how much they know about provisionism (or other Soteriology).

[@martingagnon7631]

Thank you for another great video Dr flowers. Keep up the Great work. I love learning these truths.

[@robertrodrigues7319]

God will never command/advise a person to choose salvation if it is Too Difficult or Impossible. Just read 2 Pet 3:9, even my little budgie in the cage can understand and comprehend this verse! Every person can make a decision to repent and thus get saved.

[@gusr8237]

Are there any sources or books you would recommend talking about how Zwingli, Augustine, etc were misrepresenting their debate opponents? Thanks for the videos really a blessing. Really appreciate your ability to make something simple that has purposely been made hard.

[@Soteriology101]

Dr. Ali Bonner, the leading scholar on Pelagius and his teaching, touches on Augustine's misrepresentation in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXKwcqyfZsidkNk

[@gusr8237]

@@Soteriology101 Thanks!

[@R.L.KRANESCHRADTT]

10:07 Leighton... NEVER give James White the 'benefit of the doubt' ! He is not entitled. James White's demeanor, intellect, and obvious intent preclude him from any doubt with regard to his intentions. He is in a perpetual state of disingenuousosity (to quote Jimmy Swaggart 😁), with you, and all those who disagree with Calvinism... but in particular ... 'you'.

[@stevenepstein6454]

Good stuff. Now, one thing, rich people and poor people/struggling people, I feel like rich/successful people are immediately at a disadvantage because their social status does not allow them to come to a state of need in desperation. When I was considering Calvinism, I believed that the reason my life had gone the way it did was the sovereign plan of God to save me bc had I had what I wanted in life I would've never come to him. Although, I have to admit, my entire life I felt convicted by sin, and I knew I needed God at some point.

[@theidolbabblerthedailydose33]

“So, how does that work? You’re made alive, so that you can choose life, so that you may live.” Gold!

[@jeanospipieso9175]

Some have seen the light but choose not to come to it (John 3:19-21). Maybe JW also has seen the correct interpretation, but chooses not to submit to it. Hardening ones heart, I think 😀

[@thomasjnemeth]

I noticed a slight look of fear on White's face when Provisionist Perspective asked their question. Like...oh no, that verse really pokes holes in my theology, so now I have to impose my systematic upon it, and try to get it to say something it doesn't say. Leighton, as a side note, your app has not been working for me. The videos never want to play anymore. Not sure if it's an issue with my phone or what?

[@richardcoords1610]

Jeremiah 18:11-13 is similar: So now then, speak to the men of Judah and against the inhabitants of Jerusalem saying, ‘Thus says the Lord, "Behold, I am fashioning calamity against you and devising a plan against you. Oh turn back, each of you from his evil way, and reform your ways and your deeds."' 12 But they will say, ‘It's hopeless! For we are going to follow our own plans, and each of us will act according to the stubbornness of his evil heart.' 13 "Therefore thus says the Lord, ‘Ask now among the nations, Who ever heard the like of this? The virgin of Israel Has done a most appalling thing. Israel is trying to justify is non-repentance by saying they cannot turn back to God--too difficult--and God responds by saying that such a claim is "appalling." James White would agree with unrepentant Israel.

[@mastershake4641]

I know that you and others say that they are brothers in Christ and that we are arguing over secondary issues and such, but I dont understand how getting salvation completely wrong is not a primary issue. In my view I dont even think Calvinists are saved. How can you misrepresent what Jesus taught so much and then tell others they cant come to Jesus unless they are elected before time to do so and still be a Christian? Can anyone explain what im missing? To me it seems like they are blaspheming the nature of Christ by misrepresenting him so much.

[@jdwagman]

It is not too difficult that no one can pass the rigorous training to become an Army Airborne Ranger. But it is so difficult that only about one in a thousand soldiers can do it. And no one gets through with a perfect performance. The phrase, "It is not too difficult ", does not mean that it is easy and that everyone or just anyone can keep the Law. The Israelites could not do it. But only Jesus, the Son of Man, could do it. So God anointed him as the Leader of the Covenant and gave him all power and authority to rule over the creation.

[@Gablesman888]

And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.” After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. John 6:65-66. "Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy.” Revelation 22:11. If these Arminian Provisionists persist in their unscriptural ways, then let them simply go their way. That is better than they stick around and metastasize the falling away that is already infecting Christ's church.

[@tannerfrancisco8759]

Romans 7:9 We are born spiritually alive but die when we willfully sin. We have the inherited sin nature but we are still spiritually alive as babies and children and do not spiritually die until we know the law and choose to defy it at which point our spirit dies--sin kills us. It's amazing how many people miss this very clear point.

[@losnfjslefn8857]

Very good point, never really considered that verse before. This would also explain why it is that babies and young children that die go to heaven. If Calvinism is true, and people are born spiritually dead because it was inherited from Adam, then a lot of babies that die (think of all the millions of abortions in the USA) go immediately to Hell, without ever having sinned first.

[@tonyfisher4113]

Salvation is a supernatural miraculous divine accomplishment of Yahweh. It is not according to the man who runs or the man wills but God who shows mercy.

[@WoodrowKlassen7]

Is faith running or willing for salvation?

[@gk.4102]

Salvation is of God alone and the responsibility to believe is of man alone!

[@vetracer217]

It’s been my understanding (from Holy Spirit)… that the works, zeal and passions of those in Calvinism are (by and large) desperately needed for their perpetually fickle confidence as “one truly chosen.”

[@lindajohnson4204]

John 5:25 The time is coming, and now is, that the DEAD shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear, SHALL live.

[@glstka5710]

2:51 God said it wasn't to difficult but Israel found out God was wrong, it was to difficult.

[@mauricefrost8900]

Interesting to hear LF mentioning Calvin burning people at the stake who expressed any theology which differed from his He then goes on to mention past and current Calvinist speakers who do the same Does this bear the hallmarks of a spiritual stronghold in opposition to the gospel?

[@enhancedcalm]

Christians have to do better than Calvinism.

[@richardbarton6146]

Most Calvanists that I know, all like to drink beer... and they have a different spirit about them.. something is not right.

[@ronpatton5721]

Excellent

[@witness2105]

Alright I have a verse I need help in better understanding in context with the Calvinist argument. Calvinists believe that Christ’s only paid for the sins of those whom he chose before the foundations of the world. Hebrews 10:14 says “for by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified”. This verse sounds like a support for Calvinism. Can someone break down for me how this is not? Thanks

[@davidelks8972]

@Soteriology101 Do Calvinist believe and teach the same gospel that Paul preached? Did Paul preach Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace and Perseverance?

[@Jamie-Russell-CME]

yes, this ends the debate. sorry guys. Game Over.

[@Jamie-Russell-CME]

Leighton killed it once again

[@sampowellmusic]

unfortunately the game will never be over!

[@larrybedouin2921]

But if thine heart turn away, *so that thou wilt not hear* but shalt be drawn away, and worship other gods, and serve them; I denounce unto you this day, that ye shall surely perish, and that ye shall not prolong your days upon the land, whither thou passest over Jordan to go to possess it. {Deuteronomy 30:17-18}

[@benjamintscholl]

Slam Dunk! James White is flat out being dishonest.

[@emmanuelattia2657]

Let Mr. White read Romans 1:16

[@cecilspurlockjr.9421]

Why ? He wouldn't have a clue what it's talking about .

[@littlefishbigmountain]

How about Romans 1:21 for that matter!

[@littlefishbigmountain]

Or how about Romans 11:28?

[@APOLLOS18v26]

Good work brother blessings 🙏🤍✝️

[@Jacques.Smith_]

Calvanism is stuck in time. Unable to distinguish between foreknowledge and election. Assuming that omniscience and free will are irreconcilable. This forces them into circular reasoning. By their rationale, we have no free will. This is a total contradiction to the instruction of submitting to Jesus and heretical. It comes down to a statement that Jesus is teasing some with the promise of eternal life. It's blasphemous.

[@your_name_here2158]

Dear Mr Flowers, You may call me Mr Shepherd. I would like to ask you a question: Are you certain that is what the charge that it is not too hard means? Is it not also reasonable to say that the Torah was not too hard for man, yet they chose failure? Is that not more in line with the God of Provisionism rather than the God of Calvinism who is deceptive? Would it not be unfair to make a law that is too hard to accomplish and then judge them by it? I am not trying to dishonor Yahuwah or seem obstinate, but I want to hear your thoughts? Also, to be clear I am already aware of the pots and clay verses. I do not consider that a fair response to this question. With brotherly love, Mr Shepherd

[@MHzle734]

“Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your filthiness and from all your idols. Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances.” ‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭36‬:‭25‬-‭27‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬ “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬-‭6‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬ He will cause us to walk in His statutes. We cannot do it on our own, which is why our hearts need to be changed; therefore we have no reason to boast.

[@losnfjslefn8857]

So for Ezekiel 36:25-27, assuming this is talking about individuals and not the nation of Israel as a whole, when exactly has that happened? Because in those verses God says He *will* do those things. Meaning, it is referring to a future event and hasn't happened yet, correct? So, up until that point, no one had been "made alive" so that they can believe, right? Wouldn't that imply that Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc and everyone up to then, had not been made alive at any point? If so, then according to Calvinism, how did they believe God's words? How did Abraham have faith that was counted for him as righteousness, if the "new heart" that is required to believe, referred to in Ezekiel 36:25-27 is a future event? Ezekiel 36:25-27 definitely sounds like something God *will* do, at a future point in time, and not something that is happening or has already happened or already been happening all along.

[@johndoe-ln4oi]

Why is it so important for Calvinists to promote their belief in country club Christianity? Do they like flaunting this to their "non' elect"? Obviously it isn't important to teach this to their elect, since God is going to choose them regardless, according to their belief. So what is their purpose, if not to gloat?

[@DamonNomad82]

Calvinism encourages narcissism beyond any other belief system due to the very nature of what it teaches its adherents they are and what it teaches them non-Calvinists are. While some of the most obnoxious internet atheists can and do give internet Calvinists a run for their money in obnoxious narcissism, the Calvinists have an additional ego boost in their underlying beliefs. Even the worst offender among the atheists believes a system that inherently "puts the brakes" on his ego by telling him that he's nothing but a glorified blob of protoplasm that exists by random chance. (Of course, he also believes that about everyone else, so he feels free to treat them like garbage but must also subconsciously realize that he's no better in any meaningful way!) A Calvinist, on the other hand, believes that he is inherently superior to anyone and everyone besides other Calvinists. He is spoonfed the lie that God has hand-picked him from before the foundation of the world, while leaving the vast majority to crash and burn eternally for committing sins that God Himself decreed and ordained. Unlike the equalizing degradation of atheism ("everyone else is just pond scum, but so am I") Calvinism degrades others and glorifies self, while providing a built-in mask of false humility by "giving God the glory" for that self-glorification. ("If God hadn't elected me, I'd be a filthy reprobate like you, but God DID elect me, so I'm better than you!") Not only that, but an atheist's top authority is also himself, so if confronted by someone bigger and fiercer than himself, he may back down. A Calvinist has his grotesque "frankengod" as the supposed "authority" for his supposed superiority, which means that in his mind, anyone who disputes that superiority is disputing his god. While not all Calvinists are narcissistic, those who are humble are humble in spite of, not because of, their Calvinism. Believers in higher powers naturally tend to imitate what they perceive the object of their worship to be. Since Calvinists believe God is arrogant, obsessed with self-glorification, insecure about His power and is cruel and hateful toward those He doesn't pick to win the "John Calvin lottery", they act the same way.

[@truthseeker5698]

they’re making a god in their image these reformers / calvinists. All this Glory/Sovereignty/Sola system talk is a projection /extension of themselves( the knowingly reformed /calvinist.) I know they’re many who subscribe and attend these churches for varying reasons with the reformed/calvinist mantra not on their radar.

[@truth7416]

Calvinists follow their father the devil who was a liar from the begining. They want to carry out their fathers will. Listen to this leading Calvinist today describe God and ask yourself who he is describing really. Quote JOHN PIPER "God . . . brings about all things in accordance with his will. In other words, it isn’t just that God manages to turn the evil aspects of our world to good for those who love him; it is rather that he himself brings about these evil aspects for his glory (see Ex. 9:13-16; John 9:3) and his people’s good (see Heb. 12:3-11; James 1:2-4). This includes-as incredible and as unacceptable as it may currently seem-God’s having even brought about the Nazis’ brutality at Birkenau and Auschwitz as well as the terrible killings of Dennis Rader and even the sexual abuse of a young child . . . Quote to JOHN PIPER from the Word of God! I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel- 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! 9 As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse! Galatians 1:6-9 Truth in Love

[@Azurewroth]

"Difficulty" necessarily implies the high possibility of failure, otherwise the word loses its meaning. If God determines both in will and in ability who would choose him then saying that their choice is "difficult" is not just redundant, it is nonsensical. Is God finding it difficult to will someone to choose Him? Is the person finding it hard to be determined by God? Why is redundancy such a non-issue for Calvinists? the mind boggles.

[@youbetyourwrasse]

Calvinists don't cheat .. they eisegete.

[@youbetyourwrasse]

My Grandma (who is a Christian) told me that picking pockets was wrong, and unless I want to go to Hell on Judgement Day, I should quit stealing. But then I met a Calvinist. Now I know it's not my fault, and I no longer feel so guilty. There is nothing I can do but accept my fate. And live however I wish until then. Thanks Calvinist!

[@youbetyourwrasse]

The rudenss (including burning your opponents at the stake) that comes with demonizing those opponents seems to be a hallmark with many Calvinists. I guess when your world-view no longer has a purpose for Satan, the little devil actually moves a little closer ...

[@claytonbenignus4688]

@@youbetyourwrasse Good Point! By their Works You Shall Know Them. Bad Behavior is symptomatic of Bad Theology.

[@petervdbnz2]

Ability is never the problem. Willingness is. Jesus said that no one would come to Him unless the Father draws him. Free will means we do what we want, but we will never want God truly unless we are born again.

[@thirdplace3973]

Poor Dr. White. The first prophecy for the new spirit regeneration wasn't until Ezekiel 36:26-27 and it was a promise for the new covenant. Nicodemus wasn't even aware of the reality of this prophecy when he spoke with Jesus in John chapter 3.

[@JudyAnnejesusislord]

Please stop referring to james white as “doctor”. He distorts the word of God and misrepresent God

[@rustyvoiceinwilderness9580]

From a recovered Anabaptist, John Calvin's efforts to wake up legalism has given us living freedom, and it's clear to me how many of our friends are BOUND in Works and Control. Shame

[@andresullivan6473]

JESUS said the well don't need a doctor only the sick need a doctor. So Christ is saying I've come for the spiritualy dead so Calvin was in error

[@LisaLee__]

I apologize for my ignorance on this subject, I just don't understand how God chose who will be saved before we have already come to be while at the same time, we are called to bring His Word to all corners of the earth, say our testimony and speak the Gospel so that others may also find the truth in Jesus Christ and be saved. Can a calvanist explain how this make sense please

[@truth7416]

Lisa watch as many of Dr Flowers videos and you will understand completely what Calvinism is. My view goes like this, Calvinism is a Cult because: Calvinists believe god created all things, and controls all things, predetermined all things, and made all things exactly the way they are. ... thus god also created evil. therefore since Calvinists believe god created evil. they are blaspheming against the holy spirit ... the only unforgivable sin. Calvinists also believe the only people who will be saved have been predetermined by god. and since Calvinists believe god predetermined who will be saved ... they have removed free will - the gift of god to humans, and removed Jesus from the equation. since god (according to Calvinists) has already determined who will be saved ... (and who will not be saved) ... those who will be saved do not need Christ and those who will not be saved cannot come to christ. thus Calvinists are not Christians. Yet if they are still breathing and have a heart beat they can turn to Christ and he will forgive them. Truth in Love

[@S.and.I.Productions]

I’ll get here before the Calvinists do just to prepare for what they might say. The gist of what they say is that while God has already predetermined who will and won’t be saved before the foundation of the world, we as Christians must go and preach the gospel to all nations. The way they answer your question, which is the next logical step to take if assumed that Calvinism is real, is by saying “we don’t know who the elect are and therefore we must go and obey God.” Which is fair enough until you think about the motive behind evangelism is simply for obedience sake. And once you start to thinking deeper, you will realize truths like “if Calvinism is real, then I love these ‘reprobates’ more than Jesus does” and so on and so forth. Basically it all just starts crumbling away as you further become Calvinist. Hopefully that answers your question. God bless!

[@losnfjslefn8857]

@@S.and.I.Productions Yes, the more you think about it, the more Calvinism doesn't make sense. Then, when looking at it from a Calvinist perspective, nothing really matters. If you're "Calvinist Elect" you're going to heaven no matter what and if you're "Calvinist Reprobate" you're going to Hell no matter what. So if Calvinism were true, you might as well just throw up your hands and live however you want, because nothing you say, do, or believe is going to change your ultimate destination anyway, so why bother worrying about it? 🤷

[@thereturn2361]

I am a little baffled by the term spiritually dead. Where in scripture does it say we are or can be spiritually dead? This is a term that has been made up out of thin air. I did a concordance search of the entire bible for spirit (small s vs. capital S for the Holy Spirit). I could not find a single verse indicating a spirit could be dead or that we could be spiritually dead. Spirits live eternally either in eternal condemnation or eternally with God. I have heard Ephesians 2:1 used by Calvinists to say that we are spiritually dead and thus we cannot choose Christ by faith. We are incapable of salvation by faith. Here is Eph 2:1, "And you were dead in the trespasses and sins" (in which you once walked) There is no mention of our spirit in this verse and there is no other verse in scripture that would validate the idea that our spirit is dead because of our sins. What we do find is that our BODY is dead because of our sin, not our spirit. Rom 8:10, "But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness." Thoughts?

[@ShowCat1]

Excellent!

[@simseeye6725]

You're right, let's go back to the text : John 6:44, Romans 3:9-12, John 8:44, 2 Tim 2:25-26, Ephesians 2:3 ; 12-13, 1 Corinthians 2:14, John 1:12-13, Romans 9:16, Acts 16:14, Colossians 2:13, etc... Sorry, but there is simply no way around it : mankind is totally corrupt, unable to seek God or accept Him, unless He acts first.

[@johnsteindel5273]

It's not too difficult for those 'let's go back to the text' could you exegete verse 6? in verse 6 says that 'The Lord your God will circumcise your heart'. So God gives them a heart of flesh from a heart of stone. Are you really saying that they must do what verse 2 says that they must first ' obey his voice in all that I command you today' and with all their heart, then he will circumcise their heart? the text says 'in all' that I command'. Or does he circumcise their heart in order that they obey? Actually verse 6 says that the condition that they will love the Lord with all their heart and all their soul is that he circumcises their hearts first, he does it 'so that' theywill do what comes in the previous five verses, its because God circumcises their heart first - so that, or " in order that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart'. In other words how I hear you to be exegeting this passage is that if they will love the Lord with all their heart, then he will circumcise their heart, SO THAT they can love the Lord with all their heart?

[@jaggedlines2257]

Romans 6. We are dead to sin, means we are dead to the POWER of sin. Sin gets its power from guilt. We are guilty before God. Christ has taken our guilt and nailed it on the cross. Therefore we are no longer under the power of sin. We must reckon ourselves dead to sin and alive In-Christ.

[@18S12]

I’m curious; what’s the point of debating a video. Give ANY topic that’s ultimately an opinion, who couldn’t debate a video??? It’s unhelpful. This video brings up the Shakespeare quote me thinks thou doth protest too much.

[@daywalker3630]

I think spiritual deadness is being separated from God, being not anymore in the original creation of God, being transformed by sin from innocence to contamination sinfulness corruption mortality unrighteousness and dirt that is unacceptable to the Holy God. But though death spiritually but not totally because their is no cure for total depravity no possible atonement.

[@amandasimmons147]

Romans 9:Israel’s Rejection and God’s Justice 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? Certainly not! 15 For He says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I will have compassion.” 16 So then it is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy. 17 For the Scripture says to the Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth.” 18 Therefore He has mercy on whom He wills, and whom He wills He hardens. 19 You will say to me then, “Why does He still find fault? For who has resisted His will?” 20 But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?” 21 Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor? 22 What if God, wanting to show His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, 23 and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had prepared beforehand for glory, 24 even us whom He called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles? 2 Timothy 2:Approved and Disapproved Workers 19 Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21 Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Proverbs 16:Wisdom Is Better Than Gold 2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes,But the Lord weighs the spirits.3 Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established. 4 The Lord has made all for Himself, Yes, even the wicked for the day of doom. 5 Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Though they join forces, none will go unpunished. 6 In mercy and truth Atonement is provided for iniquity; And by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil. John 6:Rejected by His Own 43 Jesus therefore answered and said to them, “Do not murmur among yourselves. 44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me. 1 Corinthians 2: Spiritual Wisdom 9 But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”10 But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.13 These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. 16 For “who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?”But we have the mind of Christ. Ephesians 1: Redemption in Christ 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. John 11:The Plot to Kill Jesus 49 And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, 50 nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 51 Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, 52 and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad. John 1:John’s Witness: The True Light 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. 11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

[@amandasimmons147]

John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Acts 8:Christ Is Preached to an Ethiopian 26 Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is desert. 27 So he arose and went. And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go near and overtake this chariot.” 30 So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?”31 And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he asked Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 The place in the Scripture which he read was this: (Isaiah 53:7-8) “He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; And as a lamb before its shearer is silent, So He opened not His mouth. 33 In His humiliation His justice was taken away, And who will declare His generation? For His life is taken from the earth.” 34 So the eunuch answered Philip and said, “I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?” 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him. 36 Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” 37 Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” 38 So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. 39 Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing. 2 Peter 3:God’s Promise Is Not Slack 5 For this they willfully forget: that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, 6 by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. 7 But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. 1 Peter 3:Christ’s Suffering and Ours 20 who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. 21 There is also an antitype which now saves us-baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.

[@amandasimmons147]

James 2:18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe-and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. Matthew 10:Christ Brings Division 34 “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; 36 and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ 37 He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39 He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it. Matthew 22:36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” 37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. Deuteronomy 13: 3 you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams, for the Lord your God is testing you to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. 4 You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice; you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him. Matthew 7:The Narrow Way 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

[@amandasimmons147]

Hebrews 10:The Just Live by Faith 26 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries. 28 Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. And again, “The Lord will judge His people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Malachi 4:The Great Day of God 4 “For behold, the day is coming, Burning like an oven,And all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up,” Says the Lord of hosts,“That will leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But to you who fear My name The Sun of Righteousness shall arise With healing in His wings; And you shall go out And grow fat like stall-fed calves. 3 You shall trample the wicked, For they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet On the day that I do this,” Says the Lord of hosts. 4 “Remember the Law of Moses, My servant, Which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel, With the statutes and judgments. 5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet Before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. 6 And he will turn The hearts of the fathers to the children, And the hearts of the children to their fathers, Lest I come and strike the earth with a curse.” Romans 8:Free from Indwelling Sin3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:Sonship Through the Spirit 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors-not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba,Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs-heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. Matthew 7:The Narrow Way 13 “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

[@evangelgreek6864]

what can you expect from Mohamed James White........

[@gregmahler9506]

@8:37 - Traditionalists are saying it is too difficult as well. *It* being “salvation by works through the perfect observance of the law”. We all say that. @11:54 - And the Traditionalist is saying, “You are already alive, at least partially, and so use that fraction of life within yourself to choose life.” The Calvinist is simply saying that you don’t even have a fraction of life within you, from which to draw from. You need God to do it for you. God has to provide some type of inner birth in order for you to have a shot of choosing life. I.e. choosing Jesus. As Jesus said, we must be born again in order see life. To see Jesus as wisdom. As Paul says in 1 Cor 1:18-31, the key factor in determining what group you are in (perishing or being saved) is God. This is why no one can boast because you didn’t determine your side. God did. God made you see the gospel as wisdom and not folly. You didn’t come to that through your human intellect or reasoning. In fact, if you did, you would most likely reject it like many atheist do on moral grounds (i.e. it is immoral to punish an innocent man, etc). Instead, God comes along like He did with Lydia in Acts and causes you to “pay attention” and understand the Gospel concurrent with it being preached to you. This is why those around Jesus in John 6 could not believe what Jesus was saying. God didn’t grant them the ability to.

[@gk.4102]

_"Traditionalists are saying it is too difficult as well. It being "salvation by works through the perfect observance of the law". We all say that."_ Calvinists say more than that. They say it's impossible to obey ANY commandment of God unless God predetermined you to do so. _"And the Traditionalist is saying, "You are already alive, at least partially..."_ False! Outside of Christ, we're all dead. No such thing as "partial life". We're simply saying that "dead" means "separation from God" and not "inability to believe in God". _"God has to provide some type of inner birth in order for you to have a shot of choosing life. I.e. choosing Jesus"_ Pure Calvinism rhetoric... nowhere found in the Bible. _"As Jesus said, we must be born again in order see ife."_ Being born again = being regenerated = being saved. Calvinists break them up into different steps to make their system fit. _"...the key factor in determining what group you are in (perishing or being saved) is God."_ Amen! God alone saves. But He doesn't save arbitrarily and unconditionally like Calvinism teaches. _"You didn't come to that through Four human intellect or reasoning."_ We're made in God's image with the ability to discern, reason, and make free choices. The Holy Spirit helps us in that process, but never MAKES us choose anything. We're not robots being programmed to make such or such choices like Calvinists assume. The gospel is simple that a child can understand. _"...God didn't grant them the ability to."_ Like always... Calvinism blaming God for people's unbelief.

[@gregmahler9506]

@@gk.4102 - Romans 2 disagrees with your first paragraph. Even gentiles without the law, observe parts of the law by nature, granted via God-given ability. On their own, all people would be as evil as sodom. It’s God’s action to withhold and restrain evil that has made the world better over the years. For the second paragraph, Leighton said in the timestamp that Calvinist are saying that “we have to be given life in order to choose life”. And he thinks this is nonsensical. The alternative though is that we already have life, at least partially, without God. Something like “you have the innate ability to choose life. So exercise that human ability and choose life.”

[@gregmahler9506]

@@gk.4102 - in response to the second to last paragraph, Romans 9 says that God hardens hearts which seems to suggest at times that he does step in and prevent or alter the human will. Like if pharaoh wants to let the people go, God says “not yet” and makes him change his mind. Until God was ready for the plagues to be over. So, as with Israel’s “partial hardening” during Christ’s ministry, God very much works in a way that is like a puppet master or clay worker in the lives of individuals. In response to the final paragraph, God is responsible for everything that happens in his creation, good, evil, and in-between. All things, good, bad, and in-between were created by him and for him, per Colossians. All things includes everything bad as well: sin, immorality, calamity, hate, death, darkness, etc.

[@gk.4102]

@@gregmahler9506 _"Even gentiles without the law, observe parts of the law by nature"_ So you agree with us that even the unregenerated can and do observe God's commands albeit imperfectly. You're the first ”Calvinist” to admit this. You have no idea how Calvinists continue to deny this fact. _"On their own, all people would be as evil as sodom. It’s God’s action to withhold and restrain evil that has made the world better over the years"_ On Calvinism, there's no such thing as "on their own" since Calvinism teaches that God decrees/determines EVERYTHING. So is God restraining His own determinations? _“we have to be given life in order to choose life”. And he thinks this is nonsensical."_ Not just nonsensical, but also unbiblical. _"The alternative though is that we already have life, at least partially, without God."_ False. Since we don't buy the Calvinistic rendering of "life" and "death", we don't agree on your supposed alternative either. For us, "life" is being in Christ, and "death" is being outside of Christ. Any other definitions mean nothing to us. _"Something like “you have the innate ability to choose life. So exercise that human ability and choose life.”_ Amen! Yes, everyone has the God-given ability to make free choices on any matter. That's exactly why we're held accountable for OUR choices, not choices imposed on us.

[@gk.4102]

@@gregmahler9506 _"Romans 9 says that God hardens hearts which seems to suggest at times that he does step in and prevent or alter the human will"_ Yes. God hardens hearts. He doesn't do it arbitrarily and unconditionally like Calvinists assume. Also on Calvinism, everything Pharoah does is predetermined by God, so God is stepping in to alter His own predeterminations? _"So, as with Israel’s “partial hardening” during Christ’s ministry, God very much works in a way that is like a puppet master or clay worker in the lives of individuals."_ False! You're assuming God works this way randomly, arbitrarily, and unconditionally as if the clay had no responsibility. 2 Tim 2:21 says otherwise. _"God is responsible for everything that happens in his creation, good, evil, and in-between."_ Thank you for admitting that on Calvinism, God is responsible for people's sins, evils, and unbelief. No other system in the world (not even atheism) malign God's character like Calvinism does. Sad.