I’m neither Calvinist nor non-Calvinist (Arminian, Provisionist). After studying the doctrine of election and the associated atonement of Christ for 15 years straight, and after teaching both sides for many years, I now have a position we can all agree on:
Those who place their faith in Christ as Lord and Savior, are the elect. Those who don’t, are the non–elect.
There are verses and extended passages that support both sides of the debate. If that wasn’t true, there would be no debate. We’re talking about a fierce debate that has gone on for hundreds of years…..and I don’t see any end in sight. Therefore, I’ve come to the conclusion that two things can be true.
We may not understand it all, but that’s ok. How God works out this whole process is His business. What God requires of us is to faithfully proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, spreading the Good News about what He did in providing salvation for all who believe in Him. We’re to leave the rest to Him.
It’s about being faithful. It’s about unity among us as brothers and sisters in Christ. This doctrine should not be used as a reason for division in our churches. We can agree that both sides of the debate can be seen in Scripture. Therefore, we should major on what’s most important, and that’s carrying out the primary mission our Lord has given to us:
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 – BSB)
