Charles H. Spurgeon on Particular Redemption
It is oftened charged that Calvinism is wicked doctrinal system because it limits the scope of the atonement of Christ. The problem with this charge is that both Arminianism and Calvinism limits the Atonement, they just do it differently. Consider:
We are often told that we limit the atonement of Christ, because we say that Christ has not made a satisfaction for all men, or all men would be saved. Now, our reply to this is, that, on the other hand, our opponents limit it: we do not.
The Arminians say, Christ died for all men. Ask them what they mean by it. Did Christ die so as to secure the salvation of all men? They say, "No, certainly not." We ask them the next question—Did Christ die so as to secure the salvation of any man in particular? They answer "No." They are obliged to admit this, if they are consistent. They say, "No; Christ has died that any man may be saved if"—and then follow certain conditions of salvation. We say, then, we will go back to the old statement—Christ did not die so as beyond a doubt to secure the salvation of anybody, did He? You must say "No;" you are obliged to say so, for you believe that even after a man has been pardoned, he may yet fall from grace, and perish. Now, who is it that limits the death of Christ? Why, you.
You say that Christ did not die so as to infallibly secure the salvation of anybody. We beg your pardon, when you say we limit Christ's death; we say, "No, my dear sir, it is you that do it." We say Christ so died that He infallibly secured the salvation of a multitude that no man can number, who through Christ's death not only may be saved but are saved, must be saved, and cannot by any possibility run the hazard of being anything but saved. You are welcome to your atonement; you may keep it. We will never renounce ours for the sake of it.
(Charles Spurgeon, Particular Redemption, Sermon 181)
The Arminian limits the Atonement by placing faith as a prerequisite; a cute doctrine, but nowhere in Scripture will you find this concept. The Calvinist limits the atonement to those whom God has chosen, His elect. What does the Bible say about that? Consider:
"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21)
"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." (John 10:11)
Rand
Labels: Calvinism, Doctrines of Grace, Election
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