To understand this discussion between Jesse and I, one must understand that Jesse is trying to refute Calvinism with Protestant doctrine. Unfortunately for Jesse, he doesn't realize that Protestant doctrine logically leads to Calvinist thinking. Calvin did not come up with these things in a vaccuum. The groundwork was already laid down by Luther. If good works have nothing to do with salvation, then double predestination must be true. Double predestination is the idea that God creates some people for hell and some for heaven. And, according to that Protestant teaching, there's nothing people can do to change what God has ordained. Ever heard of "irresistible grace"? Note that both Calvin and Luther, deny free will.
But, I digress. Let's move on to the ongoing discussion.
Hi Jesse,
In a recent discussion, on your blog you said to me.
June 26, 2018 at 8:07 PM
De Maria,
I'd love to respond thoroughly, but cannot. It is far beyond the scope of this article to refute your misinterpretations of Scripture. Also, much of what I
would have to say would be repetition from previous discussions. In short, the "doers" of the law are "justified" because their hearts have been changed (Romans 2:14-15). God looks at our works in judgement because they are the evidence of our faithfulness to Him. The conclusion of Paul's entire argument is that works cannot save us (Romans 3:27-28). So it is evident that you have misapplied Scripture.
To which I say:
I'd love to respond thoroughly, but cannot.
I know. Because Scripture refutes you.
It is far beyond the scope of this article
No, it isn't. Calvinists agree with you and their conclusion is a logical deduction of their false teachings. They believe in double predestination. Therefore, there is neither merit, nor value nor necessity of works.
Your conclusion that salvation is not merit based is illogical since you believe that one must have faith in order to be saved. Faith is a meritorious work in God's eyes.
to refute your misinterpretations of Scripture.
It is you who misunderstands and misinterprets Scripture.
Also, much of what I would have to say would be repetition from previous discussions.
Which previous discussions? Provide a link so I can see what you said.
In short, the "doers" of the law are "justified" because their hearts have been changed (Romans 2:14-15).
They were justified BY GOD because they did good deeds. Look at the previous 12 verses.
God looks at our works in judgement because they are the evidence of our faithfulness to Him.
Exactly! God looks at our works in judgment in order to determine if they are meritorious. Look at what He says to Abraham.
Genesis 22:16 And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:
17 That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;
BECAUSE YOU HAVE DONE THIS THING.
The conclusion of Paul's entire argument is that works cannot save us (Romans 3:27-28).
Only if you take the verse out of context. Do you really think that Scripture contradicts itself? Do you really believe that St. Paul, who was inspired by the Holy Spirit, would say one thing in one verse and contradict himself a few paragraphs later?
Here is what St. Paul says over and over again:
Galatians 6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
1 Corinthians 6:8 Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. 9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
So it is evident that you have misapplied Scripture.
