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Mr. Ratliff is back too soon. And once again he's here, not to explain the Bible, but to explain Calvinism. As we've discussed before, that's what Calvinists do. They will never explain the Bible unless they can expound on the virtues of Calvinism. This is a constant reiteration of Calvinistic doctrine over and over, done in a manner strikingly similar to the way political Leftists argue for their ideas.
It's truly cultish behavior.
A favorite topic of Calvinists is the idea that God chose who would be saved long ago. This is the doctrine of predestination. Those who are chosen are "the Elect." So here Mr. Ratliff will yet again explain election, which he has done many times.
Since we have addressed these Scriptures many times before, so we shall try to not repeat ourselves except to spotlight the basic errors Mr. Ratliff makes.
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13 But we should always give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you as the first fruits for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. 14 It was for this He called you through our gospel, that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 (LSB)
So many Christians are afraid to use the term “election” or to refer to the Body of Christ as “the elect.” The Bible does not have this problem. To “elect” means to select or choose. The Bible clearly says that before creation God selected from the human race those whom he would redeem, justify, sanctify, and glorify in Jesus Christ (Romans 8:28-39; Ephesians 1:3-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14; 2 Timothy 1:9, 10). (These are some of the go-to Scriptures for Election, but none of them are about our predestination. A careful Bible student would want to examine the context surrounding these Scriptures to determine whom Paul was referring.
13 But we should always give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you as the first fruits for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. 14 It was for this He called you through our gospel, that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 (LSB)
So many Christians are afraid to use the term “election” or to refer to the Body of Christ as “the elect.” The Bible does not have this problem. To “elect” means to select or choose. The Bible clearly says that before creation God selected from the human race those whom he would redeem, justify, sanctify, and glorify in Jesus Christ (Romans 8:28-39; Ephesians 1:3-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14; 2 Timothy 1:9, 10). (These are some of the go-to Scriptures for Election, but none of them are about our predestination. A careful Bible student would want to examine the context surrounding these Scriptures to determine whom Paul was referring.
In each case, he was referring to the Jewish remnant [Romans 9:27, 11:5], the "firstfruits" of the Spirit [Romans 8:23]. These are the "children of the promise" [Romans 9:8]. Predestination is for Jews, and and a little bit later, the very earliest gentile believers [Ac. 13:48], part of the "firstfruits." That's not us. [Ephesians 1:13, Romans 11:28].)
The divine choice is an expression of free and sovereign grace. It is not merited by anything in those who are chosen. God owes sinners no mercy of any kind only condemnation; so it is a wonder that he should choose to save anyone. (Why would Mr. Ratliff be mystified at God saving people? God loves His creation and want them saved. He sent His Son to die that we might live. There is no mystery that God, motivated by love, would do something loving.)
Like every truth about God, the doctrine of election involves mystery, and it sometimes stirs controversy. But in Sacred Scripture it is a pastoral doctrine, helping Christians to see how great is the grace that saves them, and moving them to respond with humility, confidence, and praise. We do not know what others God has chosen among those who do not yet believe, nor why he chose us in particular. (But we cannot know if we're chosen either. No one knows, because a person can be secure and yet fall [2Peter 3:17]. A little later Mr. Ratliff will contrarily assert that one cannot be certain, so we don't actually know what his position on this really is.)
We do know that we believe now only because we were chosen, and we know that as believers we can rely on God to finish the good work he has begun (1 Corinthians 1:8, 9; Philippians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 24; 2 Timothy 1:12; 4:18). For these reasons the knowledge of election is a source of gratitude and confidence.
10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and choosing sure; for in doing these things, you will never stumble; 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. 2 Peter 1:10-11 (LSB)
In 2 Peter 1:10 we read that we should “be all the more diligent to make your calling and choosing sure.” Peter is telling us to make sure that it is “certain to us” personally. (What??? This is a novel interpretation. However, even a casual reader would notice there in nothing about "personally" in this verse. In context, Peter was writing about sin [vs. 9] and its blinding effect, so he was counseling his readers to give their salvation solid ground to stand on [vs. 5-7].
10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and choosing sure; for in doing these things, you will never stumble; 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. 2 Peter 1:10-11 (LSB)
In 2 Peter 1:10 we read that we should “be all the more diligent to make your calling and choosing sure.” Peter is telling us to make sure that it is “certain to us” personally. (What??? This is a novel interpretation. However, even a casual reader would notice there in nothing about "personally" in this verse. In context, Peter was writing about sin [vs. 9] and its blinding effect, so he was counseling his readers to give their salvation solid ground to stand on [vs. 5-7].
The Greek word for "sure" is
bébaios (an adjective, derived from bainō, "to walk where it is solid") – properly, solid (sure) enough to walk on; hence, firm, unshakable; (figuratively) absolutely dependable, giving guaranteed support (security, surety).
949 /bébaios (literally, "what can be tread upon") then refers to what is fully dependable, i.e. worthy of confidence because on "solid footing." This describes what is fully secure (stable), and therefore can be trusted to give full support.
In context, Peter clearly wasn't telling us to convince ourselves of the truth of our election. He was telling us to live lives that would make secure our salvation.
Importantly, if our position is irrevocably sure because of election [as Mr. Ratliff believes], Peter's counsel in these verses would make no sense.)
Election is known by its fruits. (No, election is unknowable. Fruit is evidence, not proof of salvation.)
Paul knew that the Thessalonians had been chosen because he saw their faith, hope, and love, the transformation of their lives brought about by the gospel (1 Thessalonians 1:3-6). (They were among the firstfruits [2 Thessalonians 2:13]. We are not the firstfruits.)
Reprobation is the name given to God’s eternal decision regarding those sinners whom he has not chosen for life. In not choosing them for life, God has determined not to change them. They will continue in sin, and finally will be judged for what they have done. In some cases God may further remove the restraining influences that keep a person from extremes of disobedience. This abandonment, called “hardening,” is itself a penalty for sins (Romans 9:18; 11:25; cf. Psalm 81:12; Romans 1:24, 26, 28).
Reprobation is taught in the Bible (Romans 9:14-24; 1 Peter 2:8), but as a doctrine its bearing on Christian behavior is indirect. God’s decree of election is secret; which persons are elect and which are reprobate will not be revealed before the Judgment. (But, but... Mr. Ratliff previously wrote,
None of this makes sense.)
7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our transgressions, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He caused to abound to us in all wisdom and insight, 9 making known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Him 10 for an administration of the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth in Him. 11 In Him, we also have been made an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, 12 to the end that we who first have hoped in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:7-12 (LSB)
In these verses, we have the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the Cross. Our predestination is to be conformed to the image of the Son. Why? It is all to the praise of God’s glory. All in Christ are called to be submitted to God’s authority through the Son. We don’t “choose” this like we are shopping and must choose to be Christian or Hindu or whatever. No, we are elected and effectually called by God. However, in our religiosity, there is a form of Christianity that is not valid, which is all according to the designs and will of the men who are running it. That invalid form of Christianity has nothing to do with the true Church, which is made up of those elected and called by God. (How does Mr. Ratliff know that there are no elect among those he criticizes?)
We are Christians because of what God has done. Not one of us were chosen because of any merit or actions on our part (Ephesians 2:1-10). No, we are in Christ because He did all that is required to make sure that we would believe at the proper time and thus be justified and forgiven. He has sealed us and preserves us. What a blessing!
Soli Deo Gloria!
Until that time, God’s command is that the call to repent and believe be preached to everyone. (Tacit admission: Election is unknowable, so we need to engage in regular old non-Calvinistic behavior and preach the gospel.
The author would no doubt object at this point, in part because of the many great evangelism efforts accomplished by Calvinists. We honor them for this, but must point out that such efforts are oddly contrary to their doctrines. If God chooses the Elect and this is irrevocable, then it makes no difference to evangelize, for the chosen will inevitably be saved no matter what.)
Our ultimate authority is God. He is sovereign. God is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. All three members of the Godhead works (sic) together in our salvation, which the Apostle Paul lays out for us very clearly in Ephesians 1.
Our ultimate authority is God. He is sovereign. God is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. All three members of the Godhead works (sic) together in our salvation, which the Apostle Paul lays out for us very clearly in Ephesians 1.
The Work of the Father is expressed in our election in vv3-6, the Work of the Son is expressed in our redemption in vv7-12, and the Work of the Spirit in our protection in vv13,14. (Mr. Ratliff references these verses, but apparently has never read the first phrase of verse 13, which clearly tells us we were included when we believed.
Now Mr. Ratliff will go on to quote and explain Ephesians chapter one in some detail, but will completely miss this phrase yet again, even though he quotes it. Astonishing.)
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him in love, 5 by predestining us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved. Ephesians 1:3-6 (LSB)
The word “chose” in v4 above is the Greek word εξελεξατο, which means, “to choose for oneself.” The grammatical form of this verb usage here enforces this. It is in aorist tense, infinitive mood, and middle voice, which refers to a non-continuous action for or concerning oneself. In other words, God selected His children for Himself, for His glory. The doctrine of election is emphasized throughout Sacred Scripture
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him in love, 5 by predestining us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved. Ephesians 1:3-6 (LSB)
The word “chose” in v4 above is the Greek word εξελεξατο, which means, “to choose for oneself.” The grammatical form of this verb usage here enforces this. It is in aorist tense, infinitive mood, and middle voice, which refers to a non-continuous action for or concerning oneself. In other words, God selected His children for Himself, for His glory. The doctrine of election is emphasized throughout Sacred Scripture
(Deut. 7:6; (These are obviously Jews.)
Is. 45:4; (This is obviously Israel.)
John 6:44; (Drawing the lost is clearly not election, for Jesus also said He would draw all men [John 12:32]. "All men" are not "the Elect.")
Acts 13:48; (These early believers were among those who received the firstfruits of the Spirit [Romans 8:23]. This is not us.)
Rom 8:29; (Who did God foreknow? Those he predestined. Who did God predestine? The firstfruits of the Spirit [Romans 8:23]. Are we the firstfruits of the Spirit? No. Are we predestined? No.)
9:11; (Paul was discussing the lineage of the "children of the promise," which are the remnant Jews. This is not us.)
1 Thess. 1:3,4; ("Firstfruits," not us. See the next cited verse.)
2 Thess. 2:13; ("God chose you as his firstfruits...")
2 Tim 2:10). (How could the elect not obtain salvation?)
God chose His children by Himself and for Himself to the praise of His own glory (vv6, 12, 14). (Mr. Ratliff has now returned to Ephesians chapter one without telling us.)
However, for those who become incensed ("Incensed?" Is this truly the emotional state of Mr. Ratliff's theological opponents? He will continue to make these sorts of statements as he proceeds through the remainder of his presentation.)
at this clear and direct interpretation of these verses, this does not mean that this nullifies man’s responsibility to believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior (Matthew 3:1,2; 4:17; John 5:40). (Why doesn't it nullify man's responsibility to believe? Mr. Ratliff simply asserts it, but he needs to prove it in the light of his Calvinistic doctrines. If the elect are chosen, why do they have the responsibility to believe? Please explain.)
7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our transgressions, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He caused to abound to us in all wisdom and insight, 9 making known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Him 10 for an administration of the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth in Him. 11 In Him, we also have been made an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, 12 to the end that we who first have hoped in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:7-12 (LSB)
In these verses, we have the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the Cross. Our predestination is to be conformed to the image of the Son. Why? It is all to the praise of God’s glory. All in Christ are called to be submitted to God’s authority through the Son. We don’t “choose” this like we are shopping and must choose to be Christian or Hindu or whatever. No, we are elected and effectually called by God. However, in our religiosity, there is a form of Christianity that is not valid, which is all according to the designs and will of the men who are running it. That invalid form of Christianity has nothing to do with the true Church, which is made up of those elected and called by God. (How does Mr. Ratliff know that there are no elect among those he criticizes?)
These are reserved and preserved by God and will not bow the knee to these false forms of Jesus that are man-made.
13 In Him, you also, after listening to the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 (LSB)
Here we have the role of the Holy Spirit in our salvation. He seals us in Christ. He is the guarantee of our inheritance. All in Christ will persevere to the end because of this. Those who appear to be genuine, but fall away were not sealed nor did they receive this guarantee. (Wow. Again, it's like the first phrase of verse 13 isn't even there. He explains his doctrine carefully, verse by verse, but completely omits any mention or explanation of this particular part.
13 In Him, you also, after listening to the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 (LSB)
Here we have the role of the Holy Spirit in our salvation. He seals us in Christ. He is the guarantee of our inheritance. All in Christ will persevere to the end because of this. Those who appear to be genuine, but fall away were not sealed nor did they receive this guarantee. (Wow. Again, it's like the first phrase of verse 13 isn't even there. He explains his doctrine carefully, verse by verse, but completely omits any mention or explanation of this particular part.
This is the nature of spiritual deception, when a person cannot even see something plainly in front of him.
We were once in the same situation. We were cessationists and literally were unable to see Bible verses that contradicted our doctrine. Mr. Ratliff likewise is unable to see the plain Scriptures before him.)
In these passages from Ephesians 1 we have who we really are and how we got that way and why we will continue. We are blessed v3, chosen v4, predestined v5, adopted v5, accepted v6, redeemed v7, forgiven v7, enlightened vv8-9, given an inheritance v11, sealed v13, and assured v14. I find that the more I study the sovereignty of God that I am even more assured, more joyful, more firm in my convictions, and am filled with an overwhelming desire to bring Him glory and to shine the light of these truths into the hearts of all of His children that they may see who they really are in Him.
On the other hand, if we believe we are in Christ by our own efforts in our own form of religiosity (This is not the contrary perspective of a binary equation. There are several alternatives, none of which believe that we save ourselves.)
In these passages from Ephesians 1 we have who we really are and how we got that way and why we will continue. We are blessed v3, chosen v4, predestined v5, adopted v5, accepted v6, redeemed v7, forgiven v7, enlightened vv8-9, given an inheritance v11, sealed v13, and assured v14. I find that the more I study the sovereignty of God that I am even more assured, more joyful, more firm in my convictions, and am filled with an overwhelming desire to bring Him glory and to shine the light of these truths into the hearts of all of His children that they may see who they really are in Him.
On the other hand, if we believe we are in Christ by our own efforts in our own form of religiosity (This is not the contrary perspective of a binary equation. There are several alternatives, none of which believe that we save ourselves.)
how could any of that apply to us or be true? Of course it couldn’t. In fact, those who fit that bill are on the broad way not the narrow path that began through the narrow gate which is hard to find who is Christ. (We are not sure what this sentence means...)
Instead, they came in some other way and are strangers. Instead of having peace with Christ and having His joy they are overburdened with self-righteousness and their religiosity is marked by works-righteousness. (Once again Mr. Ratliff caricatures those who have a different opinion than him.)
I submit that these false believers are not blessed, not chosen, (But they are chosen, remember reprobation?)
not predestined, (But they are predestined, just not for salvation.)
not adopted, not accepted, not redeemed, not forgiven, not enlightened, not given an inheritance, not sealed, and definitely not assured. However, that does not keep them from attacking the doctrine of election every chance they get. (If you disagree with Mr. Ratliff's doctrine you are not saved. He seems to have some sort of twisted glee in the state of the non-elect. This is arrogance, a very unseemly trait in a supposed Christian.)
We are Christians because of what God has done. Not one of us were chosen because of any merit or actions on our part (Ephesians 2:1-10). No, we are in Christ because He did all that is required to make sure that we would believe at the proper time and thus be justified and forgiven. He has sealed us and preserves us. What a blessing!
Soli Deo Gloria!
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