As mentioned before, I think of a lot of things to blog about but don't take the time to do it. Well, one thing that is really heavy on my heart is the very controversial view of the Doctrines of Grace also known as Calvinism. Now, I personally don't like to say I am a Calvinist because Calvin was a mere man (a sinner) who did some terrible things in his life and when anyone wants to attack the view of the doctrines of grace, he is an easy target. The second reason I don't like the title is because Paul himself warned Christians not to say they are of Paul or Apollos. Believers are to say, "I am of the Lord Jesus Christ."
This is a widely debated topic across the globe and I will be the first to say I am no scholar or theological expert on it. However, I have been convinced in my heart that when I stand before my Savior on the Great Judgement Day, it will be confirmed that I did not place the cloak of righteousness on myself but that it was placed on me by the great mercy and grace of a loving Father. Not because of anything I've done to deserve it, but by His own good pleasure and will.
There is much, much, much to say on this matter and so many have said lots so as not to create a huge debate platform, I just want to share what's on my heart of late concerning this wonderful doctrine of grace.
I've been handed a lot of pamphlets and gotten into some very heated unexpected debates with family members on this topic. Let me stress unexpected. I don't look for the opportunity to discuss this topic and won't finish the conversation if there are underlying tones of anger. I will do my best to convey what I believe if it comes up. I can't help but want to defend my God and Savior. Here's an example. God did not crush His Son just to sit back and say to the world, "Okay, I've done my part now I'm just waiting on you." The Bible is clear that none seek after God and that we are at enmity with Him. So to say that we choose Him is wrong. Secondly and lastly for now, Christ will have His full reward for His sufferings.
Here are some great sermons that have helped me tremendously savor this doctrine:
Click on Session III John MacArthur
God's Particular Love for Election
Thursday, August 21, 2008
On my heart
Posted by Anonymous at 3:03 PM
Labels: About Me, Christian Living, Doctrines of Grace, Jesus Christ
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6 Shout Outs:
Janice,
Here's a link that has been incredibly helpful for me when I struggled through the Biblical understanding and defense of the doctrines that have been attacked both by those in opposition and distorted by those in favor.
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/articles/bydate/1985/1487_what_we_believe_about_the_five_points_of_calvinism/
I never understood the magnitude of my salvation until I understood the doctrines of grace. And my level of gratitude has increased a thousand fold.
It is a bit of a hot-button issue, isn't it?
"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see."
He made me to see, that's what makes His grace so amazing!
"No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day." Words of Christ John 6:44
Thanks for the link Joe but it didn't pull a specific article. Did you have one in mind or where you just leading me to Desiring God? I've listened to some great sermons by Piper on this very issue.
Lisa: Gratitude has definitely increased and humility has replaced arrogance. Still growing, of course.
Mike: Amazing it is. My chains are gone, I've been set free. Christ my Savior has ransomed me.
Glory to God!!
Very good post...heartfelt and genuine. Mark Dever has described some people like us that recently begin to understand the Doctrines of Grace as being in the "caged stage"...all we want to do is run around and hit people on the head with Calvinism or sovereign grace.
You are not in the caged stage.
I appreciate the evident humility which I think is symptomatic of a true understanding of God's sovereignty in salvation. What do we have to be proud of? That we finally apprehend the truth that God saved us for His own glory and that not one whit of our being was worthy or inclined towards Him? That only drives us to humility.
It's also wonderful to see, though, how this truth is woven through so much of our lives and church life. Our theology should drive our doxology. Our passion in worship is not emotionalism, but informed passion. Our evangelism is not guilt-ridden, pressure packed, gotta get saved now sales pitches, but a faithful proclamation of the gospel so that those whom the Father gives will be saved.
Be encouraged. I feel like God is doing a work in our generation, our families and our church.
Thanks, Tim for your commment. Interesting you bring up evangelism as a pressure packed sales pitch because that is one area where I see a huge change in my Christian walk. All too often I would walk away from an evangelistic moment beating myself up that I didn't do it right because they didn't pray the prayer. Now, I walk with confidence that all I'm to do is share the truth of the gospel with integrity, boldness and love and it really is left to the Holy Spirit. My head and heart are now in sync that it is the work of the Spirit and I'm not competing for "soul-winner of the month."
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