Why I'm Not A Calvinist

[@lutherkayban2788]

Im a calvinist and i still dont understand why anyone isn't, but mad respect for Dr. Brown he does a great job

[@lutherkayban2788]

Jeff david Yes because we do not have knowledge of who Gods elect are. The bible tells all to repent and trust in Jesus, then you will be saved. But Christ has not died for everyone and God does not enable everyone to repent and receive grace. Jesus taught.. All who the father gives me WILL COME TO ME, and whoever COMES TO ME i will never cast out

[@lutherkayban2788]

Jeff david ^

[@juliocesarmcosta1]

Luther Kayban, when I see a answer like Jeff David gave, I have a clue why we don't have more calvinists. It's a doctrine that is very bad known...

[@lutherkayban2788]

Julio Cesar Moreira Costa haha yeah, I don’t think many people understand calvinism in its full essence

[@fotisa1]

I'm a Christian Orthodox i just started learning about Calvinism but i can't quite understand the difference with Easter christian orthodoxy or Catholic church. Would you be so kind as to clarify the differences?

[@ReyBanYAHUAH]

I'm not Calvinist or Arminian. I'm a follower of Jesus Christ.

[@poke_warrior]

@The Bibliognost If you feel strongly that people should label themselves Calvinist or Arminian I would recommend that you read 1 Cortinthians.1:10-17. It's shocking but before the bible had even been completed Christians were already dividing themselves up into little groups. Paul pointed then back towards what truly matters - Christ. Christians. Not Calvinists, not arminians, just Christians.

[@poke_warrior]

@The Bibliognost Did you happen to read the passage?

[@poke_warrior]

@The Bibliognost I was asking if you had read it because I wanted to know if you were open to hearing the other side. I've just read Acts 15:36-41, can you explain to me the correlation between the two?

[@poke_warrior]

@The Bibliognost My main issue with Calvinism is that I believe it makes God into a chess player playing both sides of the board. I think it oversimplifies His character and in the process makes Him the devil. While I agree that God is fully sovereign I disagree with Calvinists to which He practices that sovereignty. Let me explain a bit. God cannot lie, for it is not in His nature. He is love, He is holy. For God to do anything less than be absolutely holy it would make Him well, just like us. Sovereignty however is something completely different. Sovereignty is a temporal characteristic of God. Imagine this - before all of creation God was Holy - but not sovereign. The moment (if you could even call it a moment) God began to create He became sovereign. God maintains His sovereignty but is not shackled by it for it is not His "nature" like holiness. Therefore God can choose whether to act on His sovereignty or withhold it. What I hear come from Calvinists is that God chose particular people to go to Heaven and then began to move the pieces on both sides to make that happen. Consequently He would also have condemned those to hell without ever giving them a chance. I understand that we are His creation and He can do with us as He pleases. But at best that would make Him a neutral God - certainly not a loving God as He so demonstrates time and time again. I think Calvinism focus too hard on the Sovereignty of God and wind up making Him neutral, or perhaps even evil by indirectly saying that He predetermined this and that and nothing happens outside of His sovereign control. I was raised in a Pentecostal church but I wouldn't say that is where most of my belief about God comes from. The Bible itself would be the main source but I would also attribute it to authors like C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterston, John Eldredge. Especially C.S. though.

[@poke_warrior]

Before continuing, I would ask that you re read what I wrote to you previously. It seems too me that some things may have been misunderstood between us. I never said God’s sovereignty is temporary, I said temporal. Likewise I there were other areas you misrepresented as well in your reply too me. If you read it over again and still arrive at your same conclusions I will try wording it different Tao that we both are in agreement about what it is that I believe; as well as what I believe is at stake.

[@carlalbrecht]

Such a gracious response. Bless you Dr. Brown for bringing clarity to the discussion without being condemning. Shalom, C.

[@dronelocations1339]

I left Calvinism a few years ago, as after studying for myself the doctrine of TULIP to be unbiblical. And portraying God to be the author of and instigating evil.

[@thomasglass9491]

Yeah right! No calvinist says that God is the author of sin. What misrepresentation of calvinism

[@dronelocations1339]

They don't say it out loud and It's not a "misrepresentation" at all, It's what Calvinism teaches at it's core doctrine, the doctrine of theistic determinist. Calvinists = If God knows everything then He must have determined it, therefore God determines moral evil. (contradicts the biblical teaching of God’s Holiness) In other words, God decrees your thoughts actions and deeds. If God determines your thoughts actions and deeds, this would make him the author of sin and evil. Period.

[@thomasglass9491]

@Drone Locations What did Joseph said about what happened to him? God intended for good but his brothers for evil. So, God foreknew and decree everything that happend to Joseph but did it for good, he's brothers inteded for evil. That is why humans are still responsible for their actions. The same thing with Job, God decree everything that happened to Job for the good of his purpose but who did the evil to Job? satan did it! God is not the author of evil, and no Calvinist says that! Clearly you talked bad about calvinsm without even know a single thing about it.

[@dronelocations1339]

@@thomasglass9491 The Joseph storey is a perfect example of molinism where God used /and or permitted the evil intentions of his brothers "You meant it for evil, (meaning his brothers) but God meant it for good. God didn't decree or move the brothers to hate Joseph,or to kill him or to throw him into the pit because that would make God the author of evil and sin. But God knew if they were in this situation and behave in these evil ways, that it would ultimately be for salvation of Israel and its rescue from famine and all the rest of it. It perfectly illustrates human freedom and evil and God's providence.

[@thomasglass9491]

​@@dronelocations1339 Because monalism believes in that aspect the same thing as calvinism does. The problem that you have is that God decree that event. Also, another problem that you have is the doctrine of originl sin. Joseph's brothers didn't have "human freedom" because their nature (as all of us) is sinful. They live for the sin. So, in that aspect yeah, they had freedom, but freedom to sin only, not to search or choose God.

[@willieolivier6121]

Calvinism makes God the culprit and takes away his attribute of a just God. It destroys the very issue of sin which He send His Son to die for.

[@Franci0242]

Exactly!!

[@jhenfresh]

Yep

[@wretchedsavedbygrace4499]

Wrong

[@lastswordfighter]

That means another problem. If God were the culprit that makes him guilty meaning people would be validated blaming God. It would make God a liar and not the truth.

[@lastswordfighter]

@Marcel Benjamin This predestination predetermining stuff is also present in the black Hebrew Israelite cults, Mormonism, Jehovah Witness, and Islam. There is the belief that they are God's elect. That's what they think. In the end it becomes a justification for bad behavior and acts of atrocity.

[@mjmesserli]

Great thoughts Dr Brown. I'm with you! The weight of scripture describes God's wonderful gift of free choice. Very well said, thank you.

[@johnstewart4350]

YOU HAVE ONLY FREE CHOICE TO SIN & HATE CALVINISM !!

[@frankiemonato583]

Read romans 7:8 and romans 3:23-25 if you have an ability to choose god. John 6:44 as well

[@samdoo1433]

Really appreciate this video Dr Brown. Honestly this is the first comments I've seen anyone do in awhile where the individual is not bitter and hateful towards the theology or looks down upon the people who abide to it.

[@jasonsherwood7539]

How does a Calvinist explain this statement? "The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." ~ 2 Peter 3:9 NASB

[@CypherOzzie]

All is all.

[@charleseasterday3742]

Ryan Gallmeier -Pas - Greek = all, every, any, everyone, anyone, whosoever without exclusion. Secondly, in context, Peter is talking about time being irrelevant to God so His "slackness" is His patience. He is longsuffering is allowing time for repentance of (any, all, whosoever) Pas.

[@charleseasterday3742]

Ryan Gallmeier interesting error of the ESV, the Greek word hemas is us, our, we inclusive. You error in English grammar. if I am talking to you and say,"they scoff," then you are not they. If, however, you insist that the usward (you ESV) are the scoffers that God is patient with, that further degrades Calvinist thinking and is further extended to all meaning all. You, my dear friend, are reading into this passage what you want it to say. Changing translations will not help you.

[@charleseasterday3742]

Ryan Gallmeier Apparently I have. The entire letter of Paul is an encouragement to believers to not be swayed by deceivers, mockers those who would seek to insert doubt and unbelief into the body of believers. So, where we got off track, I have no clue. Now, understand, I have a problem with Calvinism and Arminianism, with Molinism as well. Not because I have exhausted the teaching but more from the words of this here representing their choices. Don't put me in a box of open theism either. I chose to pray and believe scripture as God reveals its truths to me. Am I perfect in my understanding? Not a chance, but I refuse to be boxed in by men. Do I see words like calling and election? Yes, but I also see words like all, any, every and whosoever. So how are they compatible? Are we addressing them in honesty? I assert that no "ism" is fully correct. The level of volatile communication in these video replies is testimony enough. Issues; Compatiblism is incompatible with logic. Uncertainty of election. The over 1200 reference verses of "all" not meaning all by Calvinist standards. Problem with Arminianism; Losing Salvation is the major grievance.

[@charleseasterday3742]

Ryan Gallmeier Why are we not seeing each other's responses clearly? Perhaps we are so ready to go on the defensive mode that we are not reading but assuming. I answered your question in the very first words of the previous response.

[@kamgray8605]

I am a Calvinist, but I am so thankful for brother Dr. Brown's ministry - even if he's not a Calvinist. What a blessing he is to the church!

[@josephgoudreau7425]

Kam G I believe dr brown has been a detriment to the Christian faith because he goes against the Protestant faith which is actually Calvinism not Arminianism.

[@kamgray8605]

I appreciate your zeal, but we need to hold our Calvinistic position with much humility. I think he's wrong on his understanding of election and definite atonement, but we can glean much from his work. Blessings to you.

[@josephgoudreau7425]

Kam G his work helps us defend sovereign grace better against synergists, he is helpful.

[@josephgoudreau7425]

The Little Boy For Jesus synergism isn't compatible with grace or salvation because salvation is solely a work of God which is monergistic or monergism. There are aspects of synergism in the Christian life but not in regard to justification/salvation at all in anyway.

[@josephgoudreau7425]

The Little Boy For Jesus why respond to a comment you didn't even read?

[@hannahchaney3630]

Great explanation! My thing is like, why would God create someone just to go to hell, that's not a good God. And in John 3:16 Jesus died for EVERYONE not just a 'predestined few'... "So that whoever believe in Him will not parish but have eternal life" it's our choice, He gave us free will!!

[@fsdfmsbcxx]

"My thing is like, why would God create someone just to go to hell, that's not a good God" Exactly. And what's even more ridiculous: According to Calvinism, that "god" would punish you for doing things that he himself caused. No, that is NOT the holy, righteous and merciful God of the bible, who gave us a brain to think, ears to hear, eyes to see and a free will to act, and who delights in our understanding of the truth of his gospel of salvation.

[@margriettalen6713]

Amen. He died for all, not all will say yes to him. Many think they can do it themselves.

[@fsdfmsbcxx]

​@Betsy Smith Betsy, please listen. Biblical Christianity is not relying on OUR ability to do our best, it is living in faith in what JESUS did for us! In other words: If we just had to do our best, Christ would not have to die on the cross, and there would be no reason to learn the Bible and grow in understanding. People, who repented from unbelief to Christ, get justified by God, and that means much more than (just) the forgiveness of sins. It also means a permanent, imputed righteousness and a at-one-ment with God through Christ as Sons and Daughters. This is what the Bible calls to be "in Christ", a new, justified and sanctified status, that you can not lose and that God will never take away from you. The other part is Sanctification, and that's about learning to walk in faith and understanding of the epistles that are for us and about us (the epistles of Paul, who is OUR Apostle) AFTER you got saved. Whether a Christian does the second part or not, he still is justified unto eternal life, and that's exactly how the Bible calls it. Many preachers hate the biblical teaching of eternal security of the Believer in Christ, because they lose their manipulative dominion over their followers (and so their donated funds), and that's the last thing they want. Please watch that we are not enslaved by men again, for Christ has given us freedom, and the congregation of the saints is not a congregation of enslavement, but of truth, joy and understanding in the word.

[@2Chronicles714_]

@@kameelffarag Paul spoke of the Lord more as a Judge than a God of Love.

[@2Chronicles714_]

@@fsdfmsbcxx We are to repent of sin not repent of unbelief to belief. No scripture of repenting in any Bible translation says Repent of unbelief. This is what the new age Grace Hijackers have twisted the term repent into Matthew 4:17 From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.

[@TheStandardSB]

What annoys me is when people say they are Calvinists and have never read any of his works. Read 1 Cor 1-3 all the way through to get the context. It is a warning to Christians who segregate themselves under the ministries of men. Christians need to stop calling themselves Calvinists, Lutherans, Wesleyans etc. when the Bible states that such a practice is to be on milk not solid food, carnal and neglecting the foundation that is Jesus Christ. Let him who glories glory in the Lord.

[@MindTheHeart]

Wouldn't Calvin have said "amen!" to that? (I am somewhat Calvinist myself, but not too much ...)

[@loganross1861]

The Standard ...What’s causing problems for a lot is of us is the way many people keep reformed theology concealed, and are kind of sneaky about it. Or at the very least they do withhold it. The implications of reformed theology are massive, simple, and obvious as soon as you’re aware of them. But they are not simply and obviously coming out of the Bible. So it feels misleading. And for a religion that is absolutely emphasized by on leading, following, clarity, transparency, and sound doctrine....it is very troubling to have the issue sneak up on you several years after getting saved, because it wasn’t explained or clarified-when it easily could have been-and you had been taking John 3:16 literally. And following this, the second trouble: namely, the sentiment that such plain belief is unintelligent or unlearned. If salvation is so complicated that I have to read reformed theology to understand it, then the Bible isn’t enough, and if the Bible isn’t enough, then we’ve got a way bigger problem. I’m also just kind of frustrated, personally, by my experience with this issue. I don’t want to reset my church life because of it, but it seems like it will be necessary-because I don’t think these perspectives can coexist in the same congregation. 😓

[@donfilkins298]

The Standard I'm reading ..The institute's of the Christian religion ... by John Calvin..good book

[@datchet11]

The Standard I couldn’t agree more, I do agree with Calvin’s view of theology but I wouldn’t call myself a Calvinist I’m a Christian.

[@Barbbfly]

I argued for over a yr . they think im not a christian cuz i dont believe. Tulip !! But in their church i think only 25 % are really saved .they have to do works for salvation hoping to get in. Very sad.

[@hk3hunna]

When my Calvinist Fully Reformed Pastor told me Calvinism and Arminism are in house discussions a big weight was taken off my shoulders. I am no longer a 5 point Calvinist but I will still attend my church that I love

[@littlebiblegems887]

I'm not a Calvinist either and I agree with Dr. Brown on Calvinism. But I do like some Calvinist pastors too. But my views are the same as Dr. Brown. I agree with a lot of Dr. Brown and Dr. James White. But I'm not a Reformed Baptist. I'm just a Baptist. And Dr. Brown is Pentecostal. I feel Baptist is best. Like how I am.

[@brother.chirchir]

You have changed my mind, on charismatic/ pentacostal non Calvinists teachers. Too many Charismatics to me looked like either deceived leaning on the extreme or false prophets, what a relief to find one who is of a sober mind.

[@natlim6709]

I’m not Calvinist coz I do believe in John3:16.

[@beeboy2836]

Do I have to exercise my free-will to be a Calvinist or be predestined to be a Calvinist? If your answer is free-will then you might as well drop Calvinism. If it's predestined then stop arguing we non Calvinist can't believe anything else.

[@ETHANGELIST]

+Bee Boy Calvinists believe in 'compatibilism' ; that man's freedom and choices are consistent and compatible with God's sovereignty over everything. Therefore you have the freedom to choose to become a Calvinist but if you do, it was part of God's divine decree. Mysterious and beautiful isn't it? Man cannot act outside their own natures and outside God's divine decree. That's simply impossible and would create chaos.

[@evanu6579]

Trinity Apologetics What led you to believe in Calvinism?

[@charleseasterday3742]

Trinity Apologetics Cool! So if I choose to be Arminian, that too was Gods will that I do so and we are now arguing against God's will as we argue with each other, yes?

[@erichodge567]

@@ETHANGELIST , Compatibilism as you have just defined it is just a logical contradiction, pure and simple. Stating a non sequitur with your hand over your heart doesn't make it any more believable.

[@margriettalen6713]

We are predestined to become more like Christ. The Calvinists thinks this word talks about salvation. Romans 8:29 is talking to those who are already saved.

[@SaucyWench7]

"God did not predestine me to be one" That's very funny, lol. Seriously though I had no idea what a Calvinist was, until I was listening to Michael Rydelnik, on Moody radio in Chicago one morning. He was "explaining" to some woman what salvation meant, and started going into some bizarre narrative about how doesn't know why he was "chosen" She was confused, and so was I. Long story short, that was my introduction to what Calvinism was. I think it's a presumptuous interpretation of scripture, with all due respect to those who may disagree. I am glad Michael Brown touched on this.

[@johnstewart4350]

"A FOOL HAVE NO DELIGHT IN UNDERSTANDING"

[@erichchristian8743]

Dr. Brown and James White back at this matter again, which in some ways is good to see. Keep sharpening one another. God Bless you both. Further- Thank you both, for I've gained much from you and your interaction.

[@nagrabagra4924]

Many years ago i used to listen to Steve Brown in his Key Life radio ministries. That was my introduction to Calvinism. He spoke much about it and explained why he was reformed. I really enjoyed his sense of humor. He was very important to me in my beginning formative Christian life, as well as many others like James Dobson and J Vernon Mcgee. The problem with predestination is that it doesn't jive with reality in living day to day. That's why i could never get on board no matter how good the argument. Common sense wins every time and God's wisdom is a slam dunk! Thanks Dr. Brown.

[@magdalenasalas9467]

Dr. Brown, I really enjoy watching your videos and your passion for the Lord! This topic can get so fustrating at times because I see there's many passages that point towards Calvinism and Arminianism. I tend to side more with Calvinism, gives me more joy to know the Lord chose me in advance and it was all part of his plan. This may seem selfish but I can't ever grasp the fact that sinners would rather choose God over their sin which they are in slave to. Furthermore, let this not divide us and let us continue to Love one anther like Christ has commanded us. Grace and Peace

[@thisishowwedoit1]

Friend, there is 'NO' once saved always saved verse in the Bible. That's heresy. And frankly, the people that believe this lie are confusing Eternal Security with once saved always saved. This is what the Bible says: "He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels" (Revelation 3:5)... So when GOD says HE will 'not' blot out a person's name that Overcomes, that also means that HE 'will' blot out those who don't overcome. Again, let's read: "And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book" (Exodus 32:33)... Do you see that? Blot out. And friend, this is NOT talking about unbelievers, because a 'true' Christian knows that man is born in sin. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23)... Again: "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me" (Psalm 51:5)... And being born in sin, a person must become Born Again. "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3)... And yes, Salvation is a (free) Gift of GOD. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8)... But....., there are CONDITIONS to receiving and 'keeping' GOD'S Free Gift. Again the Bible says a person 'must' believe to receive Eternal Life. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever BELIEVETH in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16)... This is how one is saved. But the Bible says a person who is Born Again 'must' continue in the Faith. "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: IF YE CONTINUE IN THE FAITH grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister" (Colossians 1:23)... So if we are warned to Continue, this means that one could NOT Continue also! Again we're warned: "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING" (Philippians 2:12)... And let's post a few more warnings to show that Christian's must do their part for the Free Gift of GOD. "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye CONTINUE IN MY WORD, then are ye my disciples indeed" (John 8:31)... cont.

[@BeyondSkys09]

Hi Magdalena, It was nice to read your comment. Two quick points about it: 1. We should be basing our theology on what the bible teaches, not what makes us feel good (like the joy of being chosen etc) 2. From beginning to end God is pleading for sinners to repent and turn to Him. How you are unable to grasp an overarching theme of the bible baffles me. Ofcourse sinners can choose God over their sin. You do it, I do it, all Christians and converts do it. That is why Paul preaches in Acts 17:30 "In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent." And why Peter preaches in Acts 3:19-20 "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, 20that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus, the Christ, who has been appointed for you.…" Would like to hear your thoughts on these. Cheers

[@brianmatthews4323]

If God had wanted me to be a Calvinist, He would have made me one.

[@donnyr9180]

That made me laugh!

[@fsdfmsbcxx]

Great comment, which points out the stupidity and logical error in the doctrines of Calvinism.

[@fsdfmsbcxx]

@The Bibliognost I didn't say that Spurgeon was stupid. Maybe you should remind yourself that Spurgeon was not infallible nor anyone of us. God is not the author of confusion (1. Corinthians 14,33), the workers of his enemy are. Calvinism IS in fact a misrepresentation of god and his merciful character. And it's not hard prove that with the bible.

[@llllllllllllllIIlIllIIllIIIIll]

LOL

[@jacobroel]

Can I quote this???

[@rebeccad6840]

I'm a follower , discipel of Yeshua, i don't follow theories of man , only Gods Word. I listen and hear what teachers and preachers say and test the words to the Bible, and always ask the Holy Spirit for insight. Because God is God, and man is man, a human can get it wrong, but God never. God bless you doctor B and your ministry!

[@MSHOOD123]

The best explanation I've ever heard

[@ceciliabaker5275]

Dr Oakley comments you in the Video and so do I love that two "opposing views" can so amicable discuss with love such a sticky subject. Regardless of what you either of you believe your behaviour speaks more, or speaks volumes to your testimony. I am so glad that there is evidence that this can be done, and I love and bless your friendship.

[@worshipwarrior12]

Totally agree with you Dr Brown

[@SpotterVideo]

What has come to be known as "Calvinism" started out as the doctrine of baby baptizers. Augustine was attempting to explain how infants could become the "elect" through water baptism. Since the child had not come to faith, it must be based on the will of another. It could have nothing to do with the will of the child. Based on the book "The Trail of Blood" by J.M. Carroll, the earliest Baptists were never "Reformed". It is strange that we have many today who call themselves "Reformed Baptists", and also "Calvinists". See the following from Dr. Ken Wilson's research of the writings of Augustine on Leighton Flowers KZbin channel. "Was Augustine the first to introduce "CALVINISM" into the Church?" .

[@SpotterVideo]

@The Bibliognost kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJ-yfoKIfLJlh9k

[@geckoniner5625]

One of my favorite passages(not my 1st ultimate favorite but a second or third) is from revelation 22:17-21. It’s God’s call to repent from the darkness and believe on him. Then it’s God’s promise to defend his book and preserve it, even if it means damnation of one. Finally it leaves us with the promise of Christ’s return and a blessing upon the Church of Christ.

[@Anthony_Fraire]

Dr. Brown did you strategically make the video length 3:16? Lol Is like you're trying to tell the audience about John 3:16 which also is contrary to calvanism when you simply read it. For God so loved the world.

[@joellukewarriorforjesusthe293]

Thats what I thought Antony its like God is telling us something if he didn't do it on purpose

[@kyleblevins9505]

at the end of the day, please don’t stress over this debate. it’s very interesting to think about but not at all should it be the focal point. Love the Lord with everything you have!

[@mRUSSIA]

In the end people, this is an important issue but it is not an absolutely essential one. No one goes to heaven or hell for being an Arminian or Calvinist. It is repentance and faith in God's eternal Son, Jesus Christ that saves us. I use to be an Arminian and a member of the Assemblies of God. Now I am neither. I still believe In the gifts of the Spirit but they are not normative. I also don't believe everybody needs to be speaking in tongues. I now attend a Russian baptist church with my wife which is Arminian in their beliefs. Even though I would basically call myself a Baptist reformed, I am still a member of this church because we agree on the essentials. Dr. Brown is friends with Dr. James white even though Dr. White is a Calvinist. After taking another look at the scriptures, I believe that the reformed position is truer to the biblical text.

[@ByTheirFruits603]

amen

[@stephenoni2019]

+Mos Rus (mRussia) right on...I used to be someone in a similar position of yours, until I studied the Bible more consistently...youre right, the reformed position is the truer position.

[@mRUSSIA]

+Stephen Oni Thank you. Check out Dr. James White's response "Why I am a Calvinist" on Dr, Oakley.

[@stephenoni2019]

***** yeah, I actually saw his video first, then I came to see this one next...

[@danielramos6893]

Exactly!

[@danieljennings1456]

Calvinism has never made sense to me regarding the justice of God.

[@samkalagi1682]

+Daniel Jennings Read Romans 9: 6-24.

[@dalkeiththomas9352]

It's pretty simple.. You go to hell due to justice, u got to heaven due to mercy.. God shows mercy on who he desires.. He shows justice to who he desires.. He isn't obligated to anyone. If u think God is obligated to someone then he really isn't God

[@wishyouthebest9222]

@@dalkeiththomas9352 that kind of arguing I often heard from muslims. "He saves who he pleases". You can't be picky @ choosing the "chosen" and claim the attribute allloving. Eitherway, God bless.

[@CarlosPerdomo]

I can't understand how someone who reads the Bible consistently would believe this doctrine from the 1800's.

[@mauroleira9945]

Beloved Professor, those who choose are those who were chosen! To do God's will and be blessed and disobey and be cursed are for those who were chosen! We are people of God. But we sin! And we walk through the path of rebuilding again ...

[@flo19776]

i totally agree! good teaching. :)

[@Vitaconfide]

I'm grateful for this video.

[@approvedofGod]

Thank you Dr. Brown. May God keep you and continue using you to combat so many false teachings such as this one. Again, God bless.

[@samkalagi1682]

+approvedofGod Wow. Calvinism is now a false teaching? I wonder how Martin Luther of the Protestant Reformation would respond to you. You should search your library and throw away all your Christian books & commentary by Charles Spurgeon, John Bunyan (Pilgrims Progress), George Whitefield, Martin Luther, Matthew Henry, John F. MacArthur, John Piper, R.C. Sproul etc...etc...

[@approvedofGod]

Sam Kalagi I have thrown out all those books. I would respond to Martin Luther that he still needed to clean up his doctrine since he held on to several Catholic doctrines such as infant baptism.

[@samkalagi1682]

approvedofGod I can't decide if I'm impressed by the consistency of your anti-Calvinist position, or fearful for your lack of respect & honor to the previous generations of Christian leaders who sacrificed their lives for the church. I'd double check your fruit to make sure you're really approved of God.

[@approvedofGod]

Sam Kalagi My name comes from the verse, "study to show yourself approved unto God." It only means that I am a researcher of truth, that's all. Sam, I only answered your questions. You did not ask me if I respect those men. I certainly do. It is because of such men that Christians separated from what they called "the seat of Antichrist," and "the Whore of Babylon." Without these wonderful men we would still be under religious bondage. Having said all that, they were very human and limited like we all are. That is why the Reformers vowed to continue reforming, and they did not.

[@Bojanglesz89]

God's sovereignty is inclusive. We cannot violate His plan with our free will, because he already knows all our choices (not because we are predestined to make those choices).

[@Franci0242]

SO well said!! Thank u and God bless u!

[@beckynorris4366]

I am a Calvinist who really doesn't focus on predestination much anymore. I really do enjoy your videos and your posts.

[@93556108]

Becky Norris, "Predestination" is mentioned in the bible and no one who is a Christian can ignore it as it is God's word. That explained why I'm not a Calvinist and I still don't understand why anyone should be one?. Calvin's doctrine of "double-predestination" is an abomination as he claimed that God predestinate some to eternal life and others to eternal condemnation" is maligning God's character and totally unbiblical. Please care to comment. Thanks

[@93556108]

Becky Norris, how come no reply from a devout, self-proclaimed Calvinist who can't give a reason on your own belief system???

[@firstname713]

@@93556108 more hostility.

[@Mortgom]

I'd wholeheartedly recommend starting with Luther's On the Bondage of the Will to anyone who's struggling with this. He completely refutes the idea that just because God calls us automatically means that we have the ability to come of our own free will.

[@BloodBoughtMinistries]

Yeah sure. I can't anything you say seriously with that profile pic. You know what that full image looks like. Calvinism is unbiblical and if you can't get convinced into being a calvanist by just raiding the bible there is a problem. Calavanism is garbage.

[@93556108]

Jaunty, there are more than 200 over of God's commands of man to believe in the gospel and for you to suggest man total inability to respond is ludicrous and no where taught in the bible. Do you care to comment on acts10 Cornelius, and ungenerated man together with family and yet they responded with reverence and woshipped God always? How about the Centurion, as Jesus commended him having a great faith? How about the publican, Jesus proclaimed he went home justified? Do you care to support your doctrine of total inability?

[@firstname713]

@@93556108 You are a very hostile person.

[@93556108]

@@firstname713 you do not know me, what makes you say that? I don't know you, would you like it if I addressed you in this manner?

[@firstname713]

@@93556108 I don't need to know you to see how hostile your replies are to people my friend :) If i was being as hostile as you and blind to it, yes i would hope the brethren correct me in love.

[@llllllllllllllIIlIllIIllIIIIll]

Amen. Thanks Dr.Brown.

[@cogito_ergo_sum-y2h]

" I am not predestined to be a Calvinist "😂

[@lanceroark6386]

Clearly. You, unlike the rest of us, we’re chosen because you were good enough. We, on the other hand, were chosen because he determined according to God’s will; as scripture openly declares.

[@cogito_ergo_sum-y2h]

@@lanceroark6386 Yes, God determined that he will save those who believe in Christ. He chose us in Christ to be holy and blameless in his sight. We are included in Christ when we believe.

[@lanceroark6386]

@@cogito_ergo_sum-y2h and no one believes unless their heart is changed; Ezek 36. Notice, the book doesn’t say that their heart is changed when they decide to have it changed. Start at vs 16 and find where God is responding to someone’s pleas; “But I had pity for mine holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned,” vs 21 says. And don’t tell me that vs or passage doesn’t apply to you; cause Romans 11 is in your Bible so I know you claim it does; even if you don’t realize it.

[@cogito_ergo_sum-y2h]

@@lanceroark6386 No New Testament scripture for that. Secondly if you read the rest of the OT verses in context you will find it doesn't say that. Stop reading Calvinism into scripture it is not there. But give me one NT verse. Can you ? Please IN CONTEXT!!!!!

[@lanceroark6386]

@@cogito_ergo_sum-y2h try responding with complete thought, and then I’ll help you understand where your logic is flawed.

[@christianity4245]

Amen!!! Praise GOD!!!!!!!!

[@nelsonbanuchi7070]

I just listened to White's response to Dr. Brown's video here. Let me make some brief preliminary remarks concerning White's response: (a) White seems to always preface his remarks when debating an issue by subliminally framing the opponent in a negative light upon the minds of his hearers or readers that he is right and they are wrong from the get-go as demonstrated by his accusation that Dr. Brown is a "synergist" (as if that is something inimical to Biblical faith) and an "open theist" (which Dr. Brown is not) implying subtly (later on in the video) that Dr. Brown is unorthodox. (b) Towards the end of response, White suggests that the "consistency" in his exegesis is the predominant reason why he is "forced" to be a Calvinist. Unfortunately, consistency in executing Scripture is no way an iron-clad guarantee that you will arrive at the correct answer, especially, if one begins with erroneous presuppositions or assumptions. (c) White accuses Arminian theology and, by implication, at least, Dr. Brown, that they begin their exegesis of Scripture with man when they should begin it with God and who God is. This assertion is easily dismissed by Dr. Brown's video, when he states from the beginning, God and an affirmation of God's attributes and character, and then continues his argument on the basis of God, namely, that He grieves. Now, as far as White's objection, as I heard it, he has totally missed Dr. Brown's point and in no way responds exegetically, if perhaps even on the surface (for it must be admitted that Dr. Brown offered no in-depth reasons and to do so was not the intent of his video, as he stated). White went around the corner and never came back around to the point of Dr. Brown's contention of why he is not a Calvinist; and it seems to me, Dr. Brown only mentioned basically one reason. What was Dr. Brown's one contention against his being a Calvinist? As I understood the video, it was not God's grieving, although that was the basis or starting point of Dr. Brown's argument. Dr. Brown contended that "God in his sovereignty gave us a choice to respond, a 'yes,' or a 'no'; that his grace works in our lives and we can refuse it or we can embrace it" (:45). And he makes his objection, at least by implication, on the fundamental character of God as holy and righteous reflected in His grief in response to man's sin and rebellion. Where does White go with his response? Instead of handling the issue of God's giving to man the ability to make a choice and noting the texts that Dr. Brown presented to show how he may have erroneously interpreted the texts, and perhaps follow up with some supporting texts (which could have been done as briefly as Dr. Brown affirmed his stance assuming White is exegetically adept as he contends himself to be), White meanders into issues of divine foreknowledge. Let me just very briefly object to Dr. White's assertion that one can only apply theologically "unorthodox" notions of the open theist, that God does not have exhaustive foreknowledge, in order to affirm Dr. Brown's position. Of course, first of all, like I stated just before, that God has foreknowledge is besides the point; the issue really is whether or not God has given man freedom of choice, as Dr. Brown asserts and supports by Scripture. But to answer White's objection, his arguments rests on the (erroneous) Calvinists presuppositions regarding the Biblical revelation of God's possession of exhaustive and meticulous foreknowledge, that it necessarily entails divine determinism. In addition, White seems to be under the erroneous and simplistic understanding that there are only two alternatives to understanding divine foreknowledge, either the "orthodox" view that carries with it the idea that God foreknows an event or thing because he decrees it to happen or exist or what he (erroneoeusly) believes is the unorthodox view that that Dr. Brown holds. However, that is not the case. Issues in understanding divine foreknowledge are not either/or propositions; and, although the Bible asserts God has foreknowledge, it does not explain by what mode does such omniscience operates under. At this time, I take the view of "simple foreknowledge," which is not determinative. Rather than go into details on an issue that is admittedly complicated for me but much simplified by embracing this view as reflecting the intent of the Scriptural understanding of omniscience, I provide a couple of websites below for your reference: wesleyanarminian.wordpress.com/2011/11/23/an-explanation-of-simple-foreknowledge/ evangelicalarminians.org/?s=white+foreknowledge In conclusion, I am of the opinion that White's response did not only point of Dr. evaded Brown's reason why he is not a Calvinists, but it was also misleading and betrays his inability to correctly understand a simple explanation why one rejects the Calvinist tradition.

[@CypherOzzie]

www.patheos.com/blogs/rogereolson/2013/03/whats-wrong-with-calvinism/

[@SamOwenI]

Nelson Banuchi really, it sounds like you object to Dr White's confidence that Calvinism is taught in the bible. That's not a rational objection. He never said or even implied that Dr Brown was unorthodox, instead saying that clearly stating that he thought Dr Brown was inconsistent, and that a consistent Arminian would be an open theist.

[@lineinthesandministries7873]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIuXXn2vYth5atE

[@clom801]

Say I and another person in the same situation and same type of life came to church, listened to the message of the gospel and only one responded to the invitation while the other rejected it. When the person that responded got to heaven, God asks him how it was that he arrived and the other didn't, would that person say because I chose you and he didn't? Wouldn't that be works based? Wouldn't that person say, "by grace!, it was by grace that I am here!" God makes us willing, while the world does not will because it is at enmity with God. How can anyone have the arrogance to say they chose God? Why not say I saved myself? This is why we cast our crowns at His feet in revelation, because only He is worthy.

[@ETHANGELIST]

Dear brother Brown, there are many Calvinists who easily and naturally affirm that God give man a choice - life or death etc. (we have genuine freedom) and that God grieves over sin and the destruction of the wicked. He would prefer to save everyone but has a more glorious plan and purpose (e.g. Piper and Sproul). Even John Calvin wrote (see his commentary on John 3:16 and 2Pe. 3:9) that God 'invites' everyone to have life and "So wonderful is his love towards mankind, that he would have them all to be saved, and is of his own self prepared to bestow salvation on the lost." But the question is, why doesn't God just save everyone? Either He desires the freewill of man more than the salvation of man or He desires to manifest His manifold glory more than universal salvation. Does God prefer to send His loved ones to hell for all eternity than to save them unconditionally? As long as their freewill isn't violated? This seems very silly to me. Blessings!

[@charleseasterday3742]

Trinity Apologetics How do you make someone unable to do anything but your bidding and still say they have a choice? What is God's purpose in allowing truly, free will? That love may be freely returned and justice may be righteously administered. Even the non-righteous courts acknowledge the non-culpability of an individual forced into an unwilling situation.

[@bobpolo2964]

Charles - God's not making people sin, friend. He doesn't have to. On the contrary, it's God who restrains sin everyday. And can you show me where Scripture teaches that man has free will. I haven't found it yet

[@patrickallen4236]

bob polo-Rev 22:17 ...”And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” The “whosoever wills” are able to express their free will by choosing to receive God’s grace or not!

[@JStevensdk7]

I have done extensive Biblical research and the only conclusion that can be made regarding Calvinism and reformed theology is that it teaches a false god, a false gospel and a false Jesus Christ. I have listed over 100 verses that demonstrate this. diekrupt.blogspot.com/2017/02/my-contribution-to-debate-of-gods-love.html?m=1

[@jesuschristsaves9067]

Charles Easterday Amen

[@DanielWesleyKCK]

What's ultimately liberating is discovering that the metaphysical assumptions and presuppositions that lay behind the differences between Calvinists and Arminians (and Catholics and Orthodox, somewhat) are all anachronistic. Jesus, Paul, Abraham, Peter, and all of the other biblical characters and authors lived in a radically different context, with a very different set of assumptions about the world. They didn't think like 16th-century Reformers or 12th-century Catholic scholastics, and definitely not like 21st century Americans! Once we get our heads out of our own context and into the biblical context, we see theology take a very different shape. Biblical theology becomes the norm, and systematic theology gets rightfully relegated to it's place on the side, speculating but never dogmatizing.

[@anthonybardsley4985]

Systematic thoelogy can often debunk relationship..

[@diegovisoso408]

Good stuff

[@racenewkirk6336]

I'm a Calvinist, I respect Dr. Brown. But I feel Calvinism is more about God choosing those to change their desires. It's not about specific decision making. The five points "TULIP" has nothing to do with "predestination." But I feel all 5 points of Calvin can be attributed to our desires and God changing them if he chooses us. His ability to have us even accept him as Lord is his complete grace. So, After conversion I think it is vital to make righteous decisions but that is only accomplished through God's choice of starting a work of salvation in a wretch's life. Blessing.

[@93556108]

Race Newkirk, I am not a Calvinist anymore and I still don't understand why anyone should be one?. Calvin's doctrine of "double-predestination" is an abomination, as he claimed that God predestinate some to eternal life and others to eternal condemnation" is maligning God's character and totally unbiblical. I can't support Calvin's doctrine especially on "double-predestination" as it's concept not mentioned in the bible. Care to comment please. Thank you.

[@huguenot67]

The late Dave Hunt said that Calvinism stands for the principal that God really doesn't love everybody. Imagine an entire denomination dedicated to disproving John 3:16.

[@samkalagi1682]

+huguenot67 With your viewpoint, you end up with a bigger issue on hand. If God does love ALL humanity equally, and died for ALL their sins, how can he send ANY of them to eternal punishment in Hell? Doesn't that make him unjust?

[@huguenot67]

+Sam Kalagi Nope, folks send themselves to hell, by rejecting the provision God has made for them. Not buying the irresistible grace; folks resist it all the time.

[@samkalagi1682]

huguenot67 Okay, so if I understand correctly, all nonbelievers choose to reject God's provision & send themselves to hell. However, doesn't that mean that all believers by their own wills, Choose to send themselves to heaven? If that is so, why is it that You chose correctly, but the non-believer chose incorrectly? Are you both not given the same provision? Maybe you are just a better individual then the non-believer? God knew you would be smarter, more aware, more righteous-minded to accept Him? Or perhaps it was God who granted you, individually, special insight to accept his provision through the Holy Spirit? Thereby making your salvation 100% from God and 0% from you.

[@huguenot67]

+Sam Kalagi God extends grace to all, some reject it and some accept it. Since the nature of God is love, and love is by definition volitional, we must accept His grace by our own volition. Much of the dispute between Calvinists and Arminians comes about through a misunderstanding of God's relationship to time. God is not someone with unlimited amounts of time, God is someone outside of time itself. God's foreknowledge does not mean that He invades the will of man. Chuck Missler has an excellent teaching on this here on YT.

[@samkalagi1682]

huguenot67 Are you a molinist?

[@emmanuelwillis]

Thank you Dr. Brown for the video.

[@bridgetgolubinski]

I'm not sure if I'm a calvinist, but I would never be a 5 point Arminian

[@calvinpeterson9581]

Do you know the 5 points?

[@lalumierehuguenote]

I'm a Calvinist and I've always enjoyed Dr Brown's youtube channel and his message. Unlike some people who apply this to Calvinism, I don't think not agreeing with calvinism is heretical..

[@93556108]

La Lumiere Huguenote, I'm not a Calvinist and I still don't understand why anyone should be one?. Calvin's doctrine of "double-predestination" is an abomination as he claimed that God predestinate some to eternal life and others to eternal condemnation" is maligning God's character and totally unbiblical. please care to comment.

[@Joshtheigbo]

@@93556108 I agree. It's a false doctrine that makes God evil.

[@93556108]

La Lumiere Huguenote, if calvinism is NOT heretical why don't you respond to my question? I will prove it to you it is a heresy THEORY.

[@vr76]

plain and simple!

[@Kman.]

if Christians with the Armenian point of view would simply put to memory the few verses of scripture that you made reference to, they could silence most of the people they meet on the street along with family members or co-workers who hold the opposing view. not necessarily to show any superiority or make anyone look less than what they are, but we are commanded to know what we believe and why we believe it and and be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh us of the hope that life in us. I appreciate the time you put into study and appreciate the spirit in which you present your position my dear brother.

[@michaelgonzales1365]

Though I personally believe that God knows all things and is in control of all things, I cannot believe in Calvinism. It is not consistent with the heart of God. I wouldn't even consider myself an Arminian. I say let God be God. He knows best anyways...

[@samkalagi1682]

+Purging Thy Wicked One I think the Apostle Paul would agree with you. Let God be God... Romans 9:11-24

[@ginj5375]

Agree... If we call ourselves anything other than, child of God, son or daughter of God, a sinner, or unrepented sinner we are attempting to be more than we are, what we were made to be and what we aught to be. Luke 9:23-27..(( We deny self, pick up our cross daily and follow where ever HE leads. If we sin and fall short we repent, If we love Him with all our heart, mind and soul we obey.))

[@lukemartin7029]

Spot on Dr Brown

[@onehappydawg]

There are definitely things I disagree with you on but on this we agree. Great explanation.

[@praveenphinehas]

I have utmost respect for you Dr. Brown but I disagree with you in this, Calvinists start with God and End with God, Romans 11:36 but our Arminian friends are man centric. At the end of the day the Glory goes to God alone. God Bless!!!

[@athaskins]

+Praveen Phinehas does Calvinist Election precede regeneration, faith, repentance, and obedience?

[@LightningSonic]

+Praveen Phinehas Arminians are not man-centric. That's that Calvinistic go-to phrase, and complete rubbish. With all due respect.

[@mrhartley85]

+Aaron Haskins yes. John 1:12-13

[@mrhartley85]

+Aaron Haskins Titus 3:5, Romans 8:28-39

[@athaskins]

Jordan Hartley One of two options here. Either Calvinists have a terrible misunderstanding of Election, or Faith, Regeneration, Obedience, and Repentance is pointless.

[@solitarypawn5076]

God gave us a Savior, not a choice, but a Savior. He is the chosen one, He is God's covenant representative that offers His limitless love for our never-ending sin. It's the great exchange of eternity, the good for the evil, the gracious for the insolent, the covenantal mercy in exchange for our wounds, and for our broken lives. It is LOVE at His finest. God is love (1Jn 4:8, 16). This love is perfectly expressed in the life of Jesus Christ with its culmination on the cross where the Lamb was sacrificed for each one of us and for whosever may dare to believe that God is for us, not against us.

[@mRUSSIA]

Why I am not an Arminian. My salvation is secure in Jesus Christ. It is all Him and none of me. I am saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. If you are an Arminian, then you believe you can lose your salvation. You then have no real assurance of going to heaven when you die. You may have assurance today, but you can't say you will have it tomorrow. This is because even though Arminians would say they are saved by grace and kept by grace, in practically the paradigm teaches you are saved by grace but kept by works. We do good works. However, that is to show our love and gratitude to Christ for our salvation. It is not to keep our salvation.

[@dubroomdread]

+Mos Rus (mRussia) Why should there only be two "options", calvinism or arminianism? Sound like Hegelian dialectics...

[@mRUSSIA]

+Messian Dread Dubroom I am not saying there are only 2 options. I use to be Arminian in my beliefs. However, most Arminians are more man-centric than God-centric and because of this, not only is man responsible for his part in being saved, he or she is also responsible for keeping their salvation. I know that all orthodox Christians believe in the sovereignty of God, but Arminianism confuses and unintentionally nullifies that sovereignty. There are "hybrid" Christians out there who have taken out of what they believe to be the most biblical of both systems.

[@TheTurtlee1]

+Mkvine It all boils down to choice. You can choose to be with God. No external force can remove you from that position, but one can remove themselves from salvation by the same choice.

[@dubroomdread]

+Mos Rus (mRussia) isn't using the word "Souvereign" not to describe the things in Calvinism that are hurtful towards the teaching and it's followers, the Calvinists?

[@mRUSSIA]

+Messian Dread Dubroom Reformed doctrine teaches that the doctrine of God and His sovereignty covers every other doctrine where Arminianism teaches God's sovereignty but does not consider that sovereignty in every aspect of doctrine.

[@redfritz3356]

He is speaking the truth but I altemately believe God has mercy upon who He will have mercy.

[@jeffreyandrewwinters3719]

Dr. Brown is superb, and an inspiration, how would he respond to the KZbin video titled "Why I *Am* A Calvinist--- Brief Response to Michael Brown" by DrOakley1689 , published on May 21, 2016 , I personally feel a mixture of Calvinism & Arminianism is true, to claim one or the other is Black and White thinking , elements of both systems are true, God is so infinite, we humans will never fully understand in this life

[@bobfree1226]

HOW clear can one get. thank you Dr Brown. simple Gospel NO TENSION. an calvanists termed that. Tension

[@GabeNahirny]

"God in his sovereignty chose to give us a choice to respond a yes or a no" -ironic quote :)

[@ipaporod]

That's why I love James (Jesus brother) epistle so much .He shows those who boast about their faith and righteousness that they MUST produce good works for their faith to be effective!.He says :2:1 "My dear brothers and sisters,how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others? 2:14 "What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?".Wow that's very deep and revealing!.He is telling us we must have faith to be saved but after been saved (been born again) we must treat (action=good fruits/work) others with equanimity.When you treat (work/deed) someone in a good manner in relation to others that is exactly what a good work/deed is, there is no way around it!.James is telling you , you can not avoid DOING good WORKS because if you do then your claim of FAITH in God is DEAD.You are claiming to have faith and to be a born again Christian?, prove it by putting your faith into action (good works) and by showing God and others your fruits.James (like Paul and Peter were) was a pretty smart and wise guy!. You see, I believe, as Calvinists do, that salvation is by grace through Faith only.The only difference is that I also believe, like the desciple James did, that our claim of faith must be backed up by action which is by producing good fruits. Although Faith is the main requirement for salvation , good Fruits are the only physical evidence that separates the Christian from the unbeilever!.Faith bring us to Christ but good fruits helps by identifying us (a sign to the unbeliever) as TRUE Christians.Since Faith is an internal believe the unbeliever can not see our faith but because a good work is an external action the unbeliever can see it and praise God and therefore believe in Jesus Christ and be saved!. That's why Jesus told the pharasies, " if you don't believe what the scriptures says about me then you should believe by my good works".In another instance Jesus ask them "for which of my good deeds are you going to stone me?".Clearly good fruits are a very essential part of a Christian Life as faith is an essential part of salvation.You can not have one without the other since they complement each other!.

[@93556108]

Ismael Rodrigues, here, I quote part of your statement, " Although Faith is the main requirement for salvation , good Fruits are the only physical evidence that separates the Christian from the unbeilever!" I disagreed with your comment that said "Faith is the main requirement for salvation". It would be more appropriate to say "Faith in Christ is the main requirement for salvation". Secondly, by what standard are you going to use to measure the good fruits between believers and non-believers? For example in James 2:15-16 even an unbeliever is capable of acting in the same manner as a believer, morally speaking, in extending hospitality to strangers and that dosen't mean the unbeliever is saved. Thus even by good works it sometimes posed difficulties for us to ascertain the acceptable standard of the good works of men and only God knows the intent of the hearts of men. But I believe also good works manifest the inward reality of the heart. We are save by grace through faith in Christ and not of works, it is a gift of God lest man should boast. Eph2:8-9. By good works no man can be justified.

[@margriettalen6713]

Where is the fruit. If there is none: kindness, love, joy,etc you’d better check where you are.

[@slantsix6344]

Just as an exercise, Let's say that we have a free will and can choose or reject Jesus. Our salvation depends totally on us and our choice we decide to make. God looking ahead in time can see that you will make the decision for Christ and so will I, but Mark and Tammy will reject the plan of salvation. If God sets time in motion with that knowledge, he is condemning Mark and Tammy and choosing to save you and me. The fact is, God is choosing to save some and loose some either way you look at it. It is God's choice regardless.

[@Airic]

Amen. 💯🙏🏾

[@rcjr2633]

I have read behind Calvin , Owen and Gill.. Gleaned from Spurgeons blessed words and the glorious preaching and teaching of my hero ,John Knox , who paved the way and stood against a Queen that ,in that day could've had him beheaded outside of God's protecting hand..Had John Knox not have been faithful, and the result being the exile and beheading of Queen Mary Stewart ( Not bloody Mary BTW) the mother of James Stewart, To whom had the Authority to authorize the Blessed King James bible , and along with the Geneva bible was a road map for our forefathers to start the moral compass for this Great Nation..But... I believe God Chose a life of Blessedness and great love for His children..I believe he has a perfect plan for us to follow and have abundant eternal life and a knowledge of the Holy things that he's provided..He's elected , fore-ordained and pre destinated that for us..But Also I believe Satan has A masterful plan for Us , I believe he's Wise and Subtle and has thousands of years of experience and knowledge on how to execute that plan he has for us ..He's has elected to Give us a life of sorrow , heartache and pain . A life that never knows the gifts of God that he onced experienced.. Both have a Plan for you. But you have the choice to make... Good--You--Evil... Choose you this day , whom ye will serve...

[@blostin]

He is doing all right. He just lost a lot of weight through diet and exercise

[@michaeljester6073]

It's a hard thing really, I was raised up in arminian views, but by Gods will, I now lean more into calvanism. I see it that both sides are somehow right. That the complexness of Gods divinity allows for Him to sovereignly predestined everything, yet let men have some form of will play a role in their repentance.

[@caisejones1686]

I'm a Calvinist but I really appreciate clever touches. Nice video length brother😃.

[@93556108]

Caise Jones, I'm not a Calvinist and I still don't understand why anyone should be one?. Calvin's doctrine of "double-predestination" is an abomination as he claimed that God predestinate some to eternal life and others to eternal condemnation" is maligning God's character and totally unbiblical. please care to comment.

[@pierreduranleau2514]

It's odd, that M. White, in his response to this video, did not respond to your main argument: That throughout the Bible God gives man the capacity and the responsibility to respond to Him.

[@georgemoncayo8313]

Everything that happens in history has been decreed/Predestined before the world was created see Eph 1:11, Proverbs 16:33 and Amos 3:6. And yes even when terrible things happen, I know it's hard for some people to accept but look what happened when David sinned against God and one of Davids punishments was that God told him that he was going to use Davids own son to shame his Father by Absalom Absalom doing something immoral to his Fathers concubines in front of all of Israel, see 2 Samuel 12:11-12 God said "Thus says the Lord, ‘Behold, I will raise up evil against you from your own household; I will even take your wives before your eyes and give them to your companion, and he will lie with your wives in broad daylight. Indeed you did it secretly, but I will do this thing before all Israel, and under the sun." Notice how God said "I WILL DO THIS THING."That was fulfilled in 2 Samuel 16:21-22. Jesus did not die for every single person ever and Jesus didn't die to make people savable. He died to save his elect. In John 17:9 Jesus said that he does not pray for the world. The word world is used in different contexts, in that context he's talking about the non elect. In John 3:16 world means that he purchased people from every tribe, tongue and nation Rev 5:9 and for the children of God scattered abroad John 11:52. Some have been "long beforehand marked out for condemnation" Jude 4 and "appointed to doom." 1 Peter 2:8. About Pharaoh God said “For this VERY PURPOSE I raised you up, to demonstrate My power in you, and that My name might be proclaimed throughout the whole earth.” So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires." Rom 9:17-18. Jesus said "I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight. All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him." Matthew 11:25-27. So, 2 Pet 3:9 the "not willing that any should perish" if you read that letter in context, 2 Pet 1:1 says "To those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours." As far as salvation for all men verses, Paul was refuting the false notion of his time that God was only desiring to save just the Jews and 1 Tim 2:2 says to pray "for kings and all who are in authority" because as humans WE DON'T KNOW WHO THE ELECT ARE SO WE PRAY FOR EVERYONE! That's what it means in verse 4 by saying "all men." Amos 3:2 God said "of all the nations of the earth I have only known you." For centuries God passed over the majority of humankind because this verse isn't about knowledge it's about relationship. And it isn't because God foresaw Israel was more righteous then the other nations because sometimes Israel was more sinful then the pagan nations see 2 Kings 21:9. Only those who were predestined to be saved will be see Acts 13:48, Ephesians 1:4-5, Eph 1:11, Romans 9:11-23, John 6:37. 1 Samuel 3:14 God said “Therefore I have sworn to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.” That's Limited atonement.

[@kevinp5369]

Absolutely.

[@andrewcheeseman9601]

Psalm 65:4 Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, the holiness of your temple Ephesians 1:4 even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love If Sin has separated us from God, we were dead in our Sin unable to choose God unless he first loved us ! ( 1 John 4:19 ) :) It is only to Give God more Glory, us Choosing Salvation gives glory to Man

[@carld2796]

It is also quite clear that, if God chose any, He chose the Jews; alas they rejected Him. "He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name".

[@Lrapsody27]

At what point are we unsaved? How do we know we have been unsealed? How do we know God's irrevocable gifts are revoked?

[@randym.7238]

As a Calvinist, it's sad to see people refuse the Total Sovereignty of God . Not to believe that God completes what He desires to do. But Also as a Calvinist, I understand why they don't.

[@AlfredaGrace]

That has got to be my favorite verse ... Ephesians 4:13

[@stjett]

this is so simple Good Job Dr brown.

[@johnjames3908]

Thank you, Dr.Brown. Things that the Lord has made simple for us to understand and believe, are over-wrought by Calvinist theology, to the dismay of struggling saints and to the Lord, and who desires all men to repent and believe on His only begotten son, walking by faith.

[@Firestomped04]

I don't even know or get what a "calvinist" is. I may believe a lot of "calvinist" things, but it's based on my current understanding based on what the Holy Spirit has revealed... I am plain and simply and wish to be none other than a Christianist!

[@rbmath]

RE: choose, choose, choose, ... And EXACTLY how many did choose God freely, without assuming anti-biblical prevenient grace? NONE... What does Paul say? Paul says, it was GOD who choose, man never first without the Holy Spirit chooses God... VERSE 4..."I HAVE LEFT" .. Paul goes on to say what God further is doing by His grace... verse 5... in the same way... in other words God is choosing men, when Paul wrote this, a small remnant of Jews, as Paul, being divinely inspired says.. "a remnant chosen by grace" HCSB Rom 11:1 I ask, then, has God rejected His people? Absolutely not! For I too am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. Rom 11:2 God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew. Or don't you know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah--how he pleads with God against Israel? Rom 11:3 Lord, they have killed Your prophets and torn down Your altars. I am the only one left, and they are trying to take my life! Rom 11:4 But what was God's reply to him? I have left 7,000 men for Myself who have not bowed down to Baal. Rom 11:5 In the same way, then, there is also at the present time a remnant chosen by grace. Rom 11:6 Now if by grace, then it is not by works; otherwise grace ceases to be grace.

[@93556108]

Bryan Matheson, I believe in election but the questing is God's choosing is for what purpose? thanks

[@datchet11]

In the words of John Piper: everyone believes in irresistible grace. If God were to ask any of us ‘Why did you trust in my Son, but the person next to you didn’t? None of us would say, I was more humble, or intelligent, or spiritual. The answer, is you saved me.

[@evanu6579]

datchet11 The bible says that some believed because they were more noble, wise and humble. That may not be why JP teaches but I’ll side with the bible. God bless

[@93556108]

datchet11, John Piper is fallible and he believes in irresistible grace taught by Calvin and not taught in the bible. Your statement "The answer, is you saved me" is unbiblical thus it would not be acceptable to God as we are saved by grace through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8).

[@SerendipitousProvidence]

No, I would say as Clement, the favoured student of apostle Paul and mentioned in the Bible said. In Philippians 4:3 Paul mentions “my fellowlabourers” “in the gospel,” and he names “Clement,” whose name he said was written “in the book of life…” History knows this man, who was Paul’s companion and who was endorsed by the Scriptures themselves, as Clement of Rome. Clement said, “It is therefore in the power of every one, since man has been made possessed of free-will, whether he shall hear us to life, or the demons to destruction.”[7] Clement said that “free-will” was given because “he who is good by his own choice is really good; but he who is made good by another under necessity is not really good, because he is not what he is by his own choice…”[8] Clement also said that the reason a sinner was susceptible to God’s punishment for their disobedience was because a sinner has the ability to obey God. He said, “For no other reason does God punish the sinner either in the present or in the future world, except because He knows that the sinner was able to conquer but neglected to gain the victory.”[9] The reason that a sinner is punishable for sinning, he said, is because a sinner is able not to sin. He said that a sinner is punished, not for his inability but for his negligence.

[@datchet11]

@@93556108 I believe in irresistible grace it's all over scripture.

[@datchet11]

@@SerendipitousProvidence no one is able not to sin, have you stopped sinning?

[@thinketernal260]

All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son desires to reveal Him. “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Here we see just one example of Divine sovereignty and human responsibility side by side in scripture. If by Calvinist you mean that God is completely in control of someone exercising saving faith and if He doesn't graciously give the free gift of faith then no one will come, yet men are still responsible to do so, then I'm a Calvinist.

[@biogeniclife]

I left a church because of this very issue. I believe God wants us to save people by sharing the truth. With the truth anyone can be saved by loving according to the Lord's plan. I can't see how this is all predetermined. Even by thinking that God knows all. Yes of course he does but without the free will choice God gives us there is no point is creating us in the first place! So I am now a new subscriber!

[@christyler6234]

So you are saying that mankind starts out at a neutral position and either seeks after God or rejects God through their free will? Would that be an accurate rendering of what you're saying?

[@biogeniclife]

Mankind has fallen because of our ancestry and we have lost our way. I can only go by what the bible tells me. That is the example of Adam and Eve and being kicked out of paradise. So now we are in a life and up our children will be too that if we are given the truth we either take it up and live for Jesus and do Gods will instead of our selfish desires and temptations. God gave Adam the choice to eat fro, the tree he forbade him to eat from. And it's the symbology of how humanity fell. Now if he gave Adam the free will to fall I feel God gives us the choice to live for him or to live for our selfish desires that go against God. So I don't think we start of neutral, I think because of all the people on Earth led astray and having so much bad influence we are starting off really poorly and in bad shape as we grow up from being children the evil just creeps right in, now it's our choice to accept Christ and love as he asks us to. I don't think God would make predetermination and then let his creation his children fall from grace. This is all a part of some test, and it's all a choice, either love righteous and raise the name of Jesus up and praise him, or live with the rest of the selfish fools on this world selfishly.

[@christyler6234]

I really appreciate your explanation. You gave a far better explanation than most people do of what they meant. I do agree with a lot of what you said, but not all of it. Here are two concerns I have with it and I'm curious as to how you'd address these: 1. You said, "I think because of all the people on Earth led astray and having so much bad influence we are starting off really poorly and in bad shape as we grow up from being children the evil just creeps right in". To me, this sounds like you believe that we are born into a world of sin and we are influenced by that sin and become sinful through that influence. However, Psalm 51:5 shows that we are sinful from the womb, before we're even born. How would you respond to this verse with the explanation you provided above? 2. You said "I don't think God would make predetermination and then let his creation his children fall from grace." To me, this makes it sound as though you believe that God was surprised that Adam sinned and created a contingency plan for Jesus to sacrifice himself for us so that there could be salvation. However, 1 Peter 1:20 shows that the plan was that Jesus would die on the cross from the foundation of the world. Would you not agree that since it was God's plan that Jesus would be a sacrifice like this that he did predestine that the events that took place were to do so?

[@hopetaylor4946]

This is so good thank you

[@christophercowan1645]

I have long ago not categorized myself in this. I have a simple answer. "does God predestine?" yes. "Do I have freewill?" yes. There you go. BTW, I get this from John 6:38-40. In vs. 38 and 39 you see God's predestination. However, when Jesus re-iterates what he just said in vs. 40, suddenly you have our freewill.

[@yonathanswily4974]

I'm a Calvinist and still a Calvinist after watching this. Funny how people reject Calvinism for embracing free choice. Indeed we still have a free choice in Calvinism. But, it is a choice that contaminated by sin. Calvinism embraced compatibilism which means the sovereignty of God and the will of men get along together.

[@steverobertsdesign]

totally agree

[@DDFergy1]

What is Time to the Creator of Time? It seems that because we live in linear time that we have a difficult time understanding that it is possible that our God is not restricted to linear time. We understand that our God "was' before, during and after time, we think of this as being eternal. But what if our concept of "eternal" is too limited in that we think of it linearly. What if our God is not limited by linear time. What if our God accesses time like we access pages of a book, yet of course more than a book for "He" could actually be in the book of this Universe not just reading it if He desired. Of course if He could do this He would know any page of time. Knowing the end from the beginning. Now knowing all events does that mean that He makes all decisions? It could be if this God wished to just have a puppet show he could, but our God does not desire this according to His revelation. He desires we make our own decisions though He knows what they will be and also the results of them. Still we are responsible for our own decisions. To me though God is God He still delights in our reactions to the wonders around us. And because God moves through the world in His person, Yeshua, He also knows how linear time events are experienced in our person. He is familiar with being long suffering and enduring hardship. He knows of pain and is acquainted with grief. But all this is just my limited attempt to understand our God and I am just a blade of grass in the short season of life.

[@hollayevladimiroff131]

I believe in the scriptures; the scriptures say we are elected and chosen. I do not care what you call it, the truth is in the scriptures, God is a Sovereign God, and he chose us, his people. God tells His chosen to always believe in him, you must continue to have faith and believe in him always. John 10:16, and the other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice. The Chosen will hear His voice and come to Him.

[@markwolter1302]

Yes, but we cannot choose unless God opens our eyes to see! We are responsible for our own darkness (sin) and the blindness it causes. And God rightly grieves over that which He did not create, and yet that which He ordained to take place.

[@jasonchambers9670]

I'm not a calvinist I'm a follower of Christ. but I will say this Adam and Eve had one simple choice they were in the perfect situation. they knew no hunger they only have one little teensy-weensy temptation. they even walked with God in the cool of the day. and somehow people think with all the Temptation we live with on a daily basis even when Jesus himself says men are drawn to the darkness some still think that their salvation is still in their own hands.

[@peterhill783]

This is a good example of someone who doesnt get calvinism. Calvinism doesnt mean you cant choose. Calivinism means you can choose whatever you want, but your choice is predestined by god because god has everything unter control.

[@motruthhunter]

Dr. Brown, all the family and folks you know who didn't get saved are on your head because you didn't do enough to make sure they understood the gospel adequately. Same goes for whoever reads this.

[@larrywaddell7332]

How exactly do you know how much Dr Brown did or did not do to bring others to the Lord. Please back up you belief that a person's conversion is dependent on the works of other people to ensure their salvation. The Bible teaches that people come to faith by the drawing of the Holy Spirit.

[@motruthhunter]

@@larrywaddell7332 That is the point Larry. They are drawn by the Holy Spirit. It's not us drawing anyone no matter how good we may preach. And it is not up to the person, but on what John 6:44 declares.

[@larrywaddell7332]

@@motruthhunter So then why did claim those who were not saved by Dr Brown's witness were on his head if the Holy Spirit draws the unsaved to Jesus? Either the Holy Spirit didn't draw them or they rejected the influence of the Spirit. Either way, Dr Brown is not to blame.

[@motruthhunter]

@@larrywaddell7332 Anyone who doesn't believe in election is required to take the responsibility of "adequate" witnessing upon their shoulders, unless it's just a "job" or a "game". If they believe it's not their "responsibility", then who's is it then?

[@larrywaddell7332]

@@motruthhunter Those who don't believe in determinism claim that man has free will and is free to respond yay or nay to the information given them regarding the gospel. No one can force belief. Unless, as Calvinists claim, God overrides human will to save the elect. In which case no one freely follows God.

[@bikerboy9010]

There's a lot of true Christians who are Calvinists, and there's a lot of true Christians who are Armenians. Going to heaven when you die isn't based on whether or not you are a Calvinist or an Armenian. Accepting Christ in your heart and really meaning it in your heart is what causes someone to be saved. There's Calvinists who are in heaven, and there's Armenians who are in heaven. I have close friends who are Calvinists, and I have close friends who are Armenians. I believe in some aspects of Calvinism, and I believe in some aspects of Arminianism. I believe in Total Depravity because man cannot change on his own. A person living a lifestyle in bondage to sin is not able to change on their own. The only way a person living a lifestyle in bondage to sin can change into someone who doesn't live a lifestyle in bondage to sin anymore is if they accept Christ in their heart and really mean it in their heart. I believe in Irresistible Grace because when you've been enlightened by the Holy Spirit, you are not going to resist Christ. I believe in Perseverance of the Saints because true Christians persevere to the end. When a person accepts Christ in their heart and really means it in their heart, they persevere to the end, they don't live a life defined by sin anymore, they grow in the Lord, they live for the Lord, they try hard to obey the Lord, etc. I don't believe in Unconditional Election and Limited Atonement. I believe Jesus died for everyone; not just the elect. It doesn't make sense that a loving God who loves everyone would choose who goes to heaven and who goes to hell. I do believe that not everyone goes to heaven when they die. The reason why God sends people to hell is because he is a just God that punishes sin, evil, living lifestyles defined by sin, etc. 2 Peter 3:9, 1 John 2:2, and 1 Timothy 2:4 prove how God loves everyone, God wants everyone to be saved, God doesn't want anyone to go to hell, he died for everyone, etc.

[@FaithAndFilms]

Hey is there a way I can get in contact with you doc

[@cucurbitfan1610]

The scriptures come from God they are. Not subject to our own imperfect interpretations. Take it or leave it.

[@ipaporod]

Faith without works is empty/dead, works are the product of faith!.True faith produces fruits of the spirit (mercy.patience,love, ect) which are converted into good works/deeds.You can not please God if you do not have faith but you must bear fruit as well to be accepted into God's kingdom.The tree that don't bear fruit is going to be cut down and thrown into the fire, that is a biblical fact and truth!.Faith and works are linked together as proof of a Christian commitment with God and evidence of Christ Lordship in his life.FAITH PRODUCE GOOD WORKS AND GOOD WORKS ARE THE EVIDENCE OF TRUE ,GENUINE AND SAVING FAITH!.

[@93556108]

Ismael Rodrigues, I quote part of your statement; " The tree that don't bear fruit is going to be cut down and thrown into the fire, that is a biblical fact and truth!." It is explicitly clear your quote was cited in mat3:10, mat7:19 and Luk3:9 and you have utilized it out of its context and thus it is not a biblical fact and truth. These verses was addressed to the false prophets and the irreligious leaders living in Jesus days and thus it is not meant for a general application. The same principle applies to the "unpardonable sins" directed to the Pharisees, the irreligious leaders in the first century

[@johnmark9421]

If Calvinism is not Satin's finest hour, then it must be very close.

[@logicaldude3611]

I wouldn’t even call myself a Calvinist, but everything from the smallest fundamental particle to the largest things we can see in the universe live according to a strict and unwavering pattern. I don’t think we’re any different. I think it’s rather foolish to think that we’re different. The argument against the sovereignty of God strikes me as based more on feelings than logic. I feel like these two sides are usually just ships passing in the night on a globe, but both following the same destination. From a human perspective, of course we have choice. But from an ultimate perspective, we aren’t “choosing” anything. We do exactly what we’re made to do.