John for JESUS wrote: IF I MAY ASK...The help comes from the gospel message being preached. If the sinner repents of their sins and believes, then they will be saved by God. Nobody can earn their salvation. They are only saved when God has mercy on them and they are indwelt with the Holy Spirit who cloths them in the righteousness of Christ. I don't believe anybody is free from our body of sin until the Ressurection or death.
The gospel preached without the Holy Spirit is mere words!!
And although you say that no one can earn their salvation, apparently in your theology sinners can repent and believe without any help. In other words friend, you have a very optimistic view of depravity!
The contrast between what the bible teaches about how helpless we are, so that we throw ourselves only on the mercy of God, and what you are telling sinners about how much they can actually do, could not be more stark!
John for JESUS wrote: KNOWING THE KNOW...Thanks for the post, I think it is well said. I believe nonbelievers know there is a God. I also believe they know the ordinance of God and they have a conscience. So they know there is a God and He is to be honored and obeyed. JOHN UK...Do you consider the Apostles Creed or Nicene Creed doctrinal statements? How about before the Reformation, was it Christian? Or do you believe the Church took a hiatus between the time of the apostles and the Reformation? Also, do you believe in fatalism?
What sort of help do you suppose is needed by a sinner in bondage to sin, his understanding darkened, his will ruled by his passions etc. to come to the Saviour for salvation? Can he do so unaided? If not, precisely what help is required?
Your answer to the above question will basically determine your outlook and take on the bible's teaching.
2/5/13 5:28 AM
