The Hope of the Unchosen

If someone is not elect and no one comes to the Jesus unless given by the Father how can someone not chosen have any hope. If your not elect and not chosen you are lost?

@Support , the topic of "The hope of the unchosen raises profound questions regarding God’s sovereignty, election, and human responsibility. To explore this concept biblically, it is essential to consider various scriptural themes and passages that relate to hope, God’s character, and the nature of salvation.

  1. God’s Sovereignty and Election: The doctrine of election is prominently discussed in Scripture, particularly in the writings of Paul. For instance, in Ephesians 1:4-5, it states: “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love, he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” This passage highlights that God’s choice is rooted in His sovereign love and purpose.

  2. Human Responsibility and Response: While the concept of election is clear, Scripture also emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to respond to God’s call. In Romans 10:13-14, it states: “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” This indicates that the proclamation of the Gospel is essential for people to respond in faith, suggesting that there is an opportunity for all to hear and respond.

  3. The Nature of Hope: The Bible speaks extensively about hope, particularly in the context of salvation. In Romans 15:13, it says: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This verse emphasizes that hope is a gift from God and is linked to trust in Him.

  4. Universal Call to Repentance: The Scriptures also affirm that God’s desire is for all to come to repentance. In 2 Peter 3:9, it states: “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.” This illustrates God’s heart for humanity and the invitation extended to all.

  5. The Role of Faith: Faith is central to the Christian experience, and in Hebrews 11:1, it states: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” This underscores that hope is intricately tied to faith, which is accessible to all who hear the Gospel.

In summary, while the doctrine of election emphasizes God’s sovereign choice, the Scriptures also affirm the universal call to repentance and the hope available through faith in Christ. This creates a rich tapestry of understanding regarding hope, where God’s sovereignty and human responsibility coexist.

To foster deeper engagement, consider reflecting on these questions: How do you perceive the balance between God’s sovereignty and human response in your own faith journey? What role does hope play in your understanding of salvation? Let’s continue this discussion with a focus on Scripture and how it shapes our beliefs.

@InsightAI-AR This is good and perhaps we do not understand God but if someone was not elected to salvation can they be saved?

@Support , your question touches on a critical theological issue regarding election and salvation. To address this biblically, we must consider the Scriptures that speak to the nature of salvation and God’s plan.

  1. The Nature of Salvation: The Bible teaches that salvation is ultimately through faith in Jesus Christ. In John 14:6, Jesus states: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This verse underscores that Christ is the sole means of salvation, emphasizing the necessity of faith in Him.

  2. The Role of Election: While Scripture affirms the doctrine of election, it does not exclude the possibility of individuals responding to the Gospel. In Romans 8:29-30, Paul writes: “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined he also called; those he called he also justified; those he justified he also glorified.” This passage highlights a process where God’s foreknowledge and predestination lead to a calling that results in justification.

  3. The Universal Call of the Gospel: Importantly, the Gospel is presented as a message for all people. In Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission, Jesus commands His disciples: “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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This command indicates that the message of salvation is intended for everyone, suggesting that all have the opportunity to respond.

  4. God’s Desire for Salvation: As mentioned previously, 2 Peter 3:9 states: “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.” This verse reflects God’s heart for humanity and His desire for all to be saved.

  5. The Mystery of God’s Plan: Ultimately, the intersection of divine sovereignty and human free will is a mystery that Scripture acknowledges. In Deuteronomy 29:29, it states: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.” This suggests that while we may not fully understand God’s plans, we can trust in His goodness and justice.

In conclusion, while the doctrine of election is a significant aspect of salvation, the Scriptures affirm that the Gospel is available to all, and God’s desire is for everyone to come to repentance. The invitation to salvation through faith in Christ remains open to all who hear and respond to the Gospel.

To further engage with this topic, consider reflecting on how you understand the balance of God’s sovereignty and human choice in your faith. What does it mean for you personally that the Gospel is offered to all? Let’s continue exploring this together!

Regarding election is it fair to say that we simply do not understand how it works? Jesus tells us in:

John 6:44 “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day."

Then Paul states in

Romans 10:31 “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

So only those sent to Jesus by the Father can go to him AND ANYONE who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. This is quite paradoxical. Perhaps BOTH are 100% Simultaneously True and our very finite minds are not able to reason or understand God’s infinite and unsearchable ways to who there is not conflict, paradox or misunderstanding. Only perfection from a perfect God with a perfect plan for us.

@Support , you have articulated a profound and insightful perspective on the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, especially as it relates to the doctrine of election. The Scriptures you referenced indeed illustrate a tension that many theologians have grappled with throughout history.

  1. Divine Drawing and Human Response: In John 6:44, where Jesus states, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them,” we see the sovereignty of God in the drawing process. This implies that God initiates the relationship and that human beings are dependent on His action to come to faith.

  2. Universal Call to Salvation: Conversely, Romans 10:13 states, “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” This verse emphasizes the accessibility of salvation to all who genuinely seek the Lord. This creates a dynamic where the invitation to salvation is extended universally, yet the actual coming to faith is undergirded by God’s initiative.

  3. The Paradox of Divine Sovereignty and Human Free Will: The tension you mentioned is often referred to as a paradox. It is not uncommon in theological discussions to encounter such mysteries within God’s plan. The Scriptures affirm both truths without contradiction. For instance, in Philippians 2:12-13, Paul writes: “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” This indicates that while God is at work within us, we are also called to actively respond to that work.

  4. God’s Perfect Plan: Your conclusion about God’s perfection is aligned with Scripture. In Isaiah 55:8-9, it states: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” This passage reminds us that God’s understanding and plans surpass our finite comprehension.

  5. Faith and Mystery: It is essential to embrace the mystery inherent in our faith. In 1 Corinthians 13:12, Paul writes: “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” This encourages us to recognize that our understanding is limited, but we can trust in God’s perfect character and His ultimate plan for salvation.

In summary, both the sovereignty of God in election and the universal call to salvation coexist within Scripture. While we may not fully grasp how these truths harmonize, we can rest in the assurance that God is both just and loving, and His ways are beyond our understanding.

As you continue to ponder this topic, how do you see the implications of these truths affecting your faith and evangelism? Let’s keep exploring this together!