The debate surrounding the concept of circumcision of the heart in the Calvinist view raises questions about its timing and implications for belief and repentance.
The claim that the number of elect is fewer than the number of reprobate within Calvinism contradicts the biblical understanding of God's love and raises concerns about the character of a God who would predestine the majority of humanity to damnation.
Responding to troubling views of God, such as Calvinism, requires thoughtful explanations and respectful dialogue instead of gaslighting or dismissing valid questions.
The biblical concept of circumcising the heart is linked to personal responsibility and the need for individuals to humbly repent and align their hearts with God's will, challenging the notion that regeneration of the heart occurs solely through God's work before belief.
Deep dives
Circumcision of the Heart: The Calvinist Perspective
A debate arises surrounding the concept of circumcision of the heart in the Calvinist view. Some argue that it happens before belief and causes belief, while others believe it occurs after repentance and humbling oneself. The discussion delves into the implications of this doctrine, with the main focus being on how it aligns with the biblical understanding of God's love for all people, even his enemies. The participants highlight the need for a respectful and open dialogue that addresses the concerns raised from both sides, rather than dismissing them as a lack of understanding.
God's Love and the Number of Elect
The debate expands to discuss the logical implications of the Calvinist claim that the number of elect is fewer than the number of reprobate. The participants argue that this contradicts the biblical understanding of God's love and provision for all people. They question the trustworthiness and character of a God who would reprobate the majority of humanity before their birth, leading to doubts about entrusting children's salvation to such a deity. The discussion underscores the importance of addressing these concerns and finding satisfactory answers to maintain a coherent view of God's love and justice.
Responding to Gaslighting and Misunderstanding
The podcast participants point out the need to respond to questions about troubling views of God, such as those presented by Calvinism, with more than gaslighting or blanket accusations of misrepresentation. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging that these questions are valid and responding with thoughtful explanations or at least admitting that there may not be a clear answer. Gaslighting, dismissing, or attacking the questioner only undermines the opportunity for respectful dialogue and understanding.
Circumcising the Heart and Personal Responsibility
The dialogue explores the biblical concept of circumcising the heart and its relationship to personal responsibility. Participants provide examples from Jeremiah and Ezekiel, where individuals are called to humbly repent and make a new heart for themselves. This challenges the idea of the regeneration of the heart happening solely through the work of God before belief. They argue that personal responsibility, humbling oneself, and repentance are necessary components of aligning one's heart with God's will.
The Divine Act of Circumcision and Regeneration
In this podcast episode, the speaker discusses the divine act of circumcision and its connection to the process of regeneration. The speaker emphasizes that circumcision is not something that individuals do to themselves or something they allow to be done to themselves. Instead, it is a description of what God does for believers. Circumcision is a spiritual blessing bestowed upon those who are in Christ, and it signifies the removal of the corrupt nature, referred to as the body of the flesh. The speaker argues that the circumcision of the heart, identified as regeneration, precedes faith in the Calvinist perspective. However, the speaker counters this view, highlighting that circumcision is for those who already believe and are described as being in Christ.
The Importance of 'In Him' and its Significance
In this episode, the concept of being 'in Him' is explored, referring to believers' intimate connection to Christ. The speaker discusses how being 'in Him' implies a relationship and union with Jesus. The act of circumcision, along with other spiritual blessings, takes place within the context of being 'in Him.' The speaker questions the implications of this understanding, specifically in relation to the timing of regeneration. The speaker wonders if regeneration and being in Christ both occur before faith or if there is an inconsistency in the Calvinist perspective. The importance of understanding the phrase 'in Him' pertaining to the order of salvation is emphasized.
The Order of Salvation and its Inconsistencies
This podcast delves into the order of salvation, particularly in regard to the relationship between faith, regeneration, and the act of circumcision. The speaker points out a potential inconsistency within Calvinism, where regeneration is believed to precede faith, while baptism is seen as following faith. The speaker highlights the significance of the phrase 'in Him,' questioning whether being in Christ occurs before regeneration and faith. The discussion delves into the challenges of interpreting various passages and resolving inconsistencies within the Calvinist perspective. The aim is to present a clearer understanding of the order of salvation and the relationship between faith, regeneration, and being 'in Him.'
Jordan Hatfield, of Great Light Studios, joins Dr. Leighton Flowers to discuss why they reject Calvinism. Then they take some time to respond to Dr. James White's most recent critique of Flowers regarding Colossians 2 and the "circumcision of the heart." (seen here: https://youtu.be/EeHIoTnykrA)
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