Fundamental to the reservations I have regarding Reformed doctrine is the concept of unconditional election. Perhaps I’m deluding myself, but I think I can adequately refute the Calvinist’s notion of election. For instance, Eph 1:4 is a popular verse used by Calvinists.
“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will,”
The obvious question for me – what’s God’s purpose? Well, looking at the entire passage, several things “pop” out:
vs 4 (God determining that we would be holy and blameless in his sight)
vs 5 (God determining that we would be adopted as his sons through Christ)
vs 9 (the “mystery” of his will)
vs 10 (that will is to be pout into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment)
vs 11 (God accomplishing his plan and replaces the law with faith)
As I see it, then, Paul’s explanation of “the mystery” relates to God doing away with “the law” thereby enabling both Jews and Gentiles to be made holy through God’s own sacrifice of himself by faith. To which, I see nothing within this passage supporting Calvinistic fatalism as to God predestining or otherwise “choosing” (i.e. electing) a very select few for salvation.
On the contrary, I see God’s desire for everyone to come into fellowship with him. Through Christ. By faith. But, I suspect that other’s “mileage” may differ. Please feel free to comment.
Martin's Mercurial Musings 