If there is a Calvinist reading this, can you answer one simple question that I have: "Did God decide to create millions upon millions of people (with absolutely no choice to repent) simply so that they can be tormented forever in hell for his pleasure?" I just cannot wrap my brain around this thought so could a Calvinist enlighten me on this?
The "big" God of Calvin did so, but the biblical God did not. 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV): "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."
Every time I try to have a conversation with a calvinist along these lines, all I get is doublethink and talking in circles. Basically, "of course not, but yes."
@@jdroofcleanpw plain and simple, the doctrine of Calvinism is a cult, disguised within Christianity. I love Calvinist people. Just can’t wrap my brain around their theology.
God is big. So big we cannot comprehend and certainly merciful in ways that pass above our understanding. But these two vague belief standards must be reduced to scriptural principles (doctrine) that align with the Word of God. This brief message could also describe Universalism. (I know it doesn't.) I love your brevity, but your reference to Calvin may suppose that people already know what Reformed Theology is. Do all reformed theologians agree on the definition of Reformed Theology? My understanding is that Reformed Theology and Calvinism are synonymous. I intend no criticism, just asking questions that this answer to the initial question raised. Be greatly blessed today.
Calvinism and Reformed Theology are used interchangeably today. Calvin was one of the original and most influential reformers and his theology doesn’t break with any of the other original reformers in any significant way, so the systematic theology based on his teachings called Calvinism is essentially the same thing as Reformed Theology in general.
He states @0:19 that God revealed Himself to us in the Scriptures. The Scriptures state that God is known by His creation. Rom 1:18-20: "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who suppress the truth by their unrighteousness, because what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes - His eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, because they are understood through what has been made. So people are without excuse." People were saved long before we had the canon which is further evidence of God's love, mercy, and grace. There has always been grace, and there is still the call to keep the commandments. These are not mutually exclusive.
If there is a Calvinist reading this, can you answer one simple question that I have:
"Did God decide to create millions upon millions of people (with absolutely no choice to repent) simply so that they can be tormented forever in hell for his pleasure?"
I just cannot wrap my brain around this thought so could a Calvinist enlighten me on this?
Calvanism is a heresy cuz it's inconsistent with the nature of God
The "big" God of Calvin did so, but the biblical God did not. 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV):
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."
A mischaracterisation of Calvinism is probably why you won't get an answer.
Every time I try to have a conversation with a calvinist along these lines, all I get is doublethink and talking in circles. Basically, "of course not, but yes."
@@jdroofcleanpw plain and simple, the doctrine of Calvinism is a cult, disguised within Christianity. I love Calvinist people. Just can’t wrap my brain around their theology.
Wonderful explanation Kevin!
God is big. So big we cannot comprehend and certainly merciful in ways that pass above our understanding. But these two vague belief standards must be reduced to scriptural principles (doctrine) that align with the Word of God. This brief message could also describe Universalism. (I know it doesn't.) I love your brevity, but your reference to Calvin may suppose that people already know what Reformed Theology is. Do all reformed theologians agree on the definition of Reformed Theology? My understanding is that Reformed Theology and Calvinism are synonymous. I intend no criticism, just asking questions that this answer to the initial question raised. Be greatly blessed today.
2 Years and no answer, that is indeed sad.
Great question Lynn, as I was wondering the same as you.
*_God Bless_*
Calvinism and Reformed Theology are used interchangeably today. Calvin was one of the original and most influential reformers and his theology doesn’t break with any of the other original reformers in any significant way, so the systematic theology based on his teachings called Calvinism is essentially the same thing as Reformed Theology in general.
He states @0:19 that God revealed Himself to us in the Scriptures. The Scriptures state that God is known by His creation. Rom 1:18-20: "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who suppress the truth by their unrighteousness, because what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes - His eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, because they are understood through what has been made. So people are without excuse." People were saved long before we had the canon which is further evidence of God's love, mercy, and grace. There has always been grace, and there is still the call to keep the commandments. These are not mutually exclusive.