The Elect
I have a question about elected and chosen. “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.” – Ephesians 1:4
God knew us in the womb. He numbered the hairs on our heads. I have been explained to that we were given the gift of Faith. So, that is why we have the desire to believe, and we accept Jesus into our hearts and follow Him. We are given the Holy Spirit. This is also the reason why we are convicted when we know something is wrong. I asked this question to my previous Pastor from back home.
The Bible says to go out and make disciples and baptize them in the name of The Father. But, if only the elect is going to Heaven and will be saved why are we commanded to do this? (Matthew 28:19-20) I both understand and on the other hand I do not. We are supposed to win souls for Jesus. God, I know ultimately knows who will and who won't accept Him. I mean, we have The Great Commission. We are commanded to win souls for Jesus.
In Romans 10:14-17 it says that not all who are witnessed to will believe. I am just having a hard time with the elect part. If God "predestined" men for hell, then they would be denied the " choice" that all people have to accept Jesus Christ as the sacrifice for our sins. That would be a terrible thing. So, are the non-elected given a choice? We have free will. I know God is just and Sovereign.
I know that my ex-husband is not saved and Kyzic and I are praying hard and trying to be a light and live like Jesus FOR Moses. But, if he is living in his sin and he knows it, he is happy in his sin and does not want to give it up...even though he has been to church enough to know exactly what he should be doing...will he have the chance to be saved? Will he be given the gift of faith? Will God eventually stop dealing with his heart or has he even started? Is he part of the elect because he doesn't have the gift of faith? I know God ultimately knows everything and has authority over everything and everyone. I believe in His plan. I am just seeking knowledge. I probably just thoroughly embarrassed myself.
Alicia,
It takes courage to speak out and ask questions! So please don't be embarrassed. Pastor Bob has taught on this in a previous study on Wednesday night. He is very good at explaining it and I agree with what he says. Bottom line ANYONE who calls on the Name of Jesus will be saved. He can explain all the scripture references you mentioned. Blessings to you.