Then define the doctrine of Sola Gratia...or do you disregard it?
Monergists & Synergists: Divide or Unify?
Discussion in 'Calvinism & Arminianism Debate' started by Reformed, Feb 14, 2015.
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Earth Wind and Fire Well-Known MemberSite Supporter
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This thread is not doing much to promote the unity of Monergists and Synergists; at least on an online message board. I am still of the opinion that we would not act this way in life outside of this board. And no - I do not believe any of us would choose to belong to a church that teaches differently unless providence dictates.
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I do not hate or even dislike my Synergist brethren (and I have no problem calling them "brethren). I strongly disagree with them, but I have have no animus towards them. It is just that the theology I hold to permeates everything I believe and do. It is not that I seek, or even wish, for division. The division comes naturally because of deeply held convictions. -
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Earth Wind and Fire Well-Known MemberSite Supporter
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Earth Wind and Fire Well-Known MemberSite Supporter
In short, you could never sit under a synergistic pastor as your spiritual leader. Now you are in my tell of thinking. I had a similar epiphany "if you will " ....I not only left the past theological life behind, I had a voratious appetite for DoG doctrine so I started reading and studying on my own because there really are no genuine DoG theology churches in my community at large. -
I was also wondering about your statement of faith - "Because I have placed my faith in Christ alone for my salvation." Isn't this something a Synergist would say? It doesn't sound Calvinistic. -
1. Is it appropriate for Christians to divide over this issue?
2. Does the debate effect one's view of the Gospel and salvation?
3. If so, is that a minor or major issue?
4. If someone belongs to a church that holds to a different view, should that person advocate for their view and cause dissension in the church?
5. If the issue does come up in real life, should we be charitable in our behavior even if we disagree?
1. No, as the Holy Spirit Humself desires us to all keep the unity that Jesus purchased for us to have towards each other being now fellow members of the Body, so we can have heated discussions and disagreements, but as long as we reason from ther scriptures ALONE, and no off our group distinctive beliefs and other sources...
2. yes, but that would be mainly in the issues regarding free will and how much the fall affected all of us..
3. major, IF one decides to deny either the effects of the Fall, or allowing us to till have free will same as adam omce held... Or if we think no meed to witness or evagelise, as God will save his own, or that somehow they are already right with him...
4.No, rather that person should either agree with his pastor snad elders, or else discuss it freely, but without urge to somehow convert all on it..
5.Yes -
How do I invite the lost to follow Jesus? I preach the same gospel that Spurgeon preached (although I am not a Spurgeon). I declare to sinners that they are facing the impending wrath of God and that God calls on them to repent of their sins, and turn to Christ by faith alone. We invite people to talk with our elders after the worship service, and our church members go out of their way to engage with visitors after worship is concluded. The command is to believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31). The command is not raise a hand or walk down the aisle.
Yes. A Synergist would make that statement. This is why I often say that Monergism is misunderstood. Sinners must place their faith in Christ. It makes no difference if they are elect. God ordains the means of salvation; the means being the preaching of the Gospel. I believe the Holy Spirit first regenerates the sinner and then the sinner responds in faith. Synergists disagree with regeneration preceding faith. That is one of the things that divides the two camps. -
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Iconoclast Well-Known MemberSite Supporter
All true believers are Calvinists even if they do not realize it yet. They realize it when they pray and asks God to save a person.
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Reformed said: ↑You assume correctly.
How do I invite the lost to follow Jesus? I preach the same gospel that Spurgeon preached (although I am not a Spurgeon). I declare to sinners that they are facing the impending wrath of God and that God calls on them to repent of their sins, and turn to Christ by faith alone. We invite people to talk with our elders after the worship service, and our church members go out of their way to engage with visitors after worship is concluded. The command is to believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31). The command is not raise a hand or walk down the aisle.Click to expand...
Yes. A Synergist would make that statement. This is why I often say that Monergism is misunderstood. Sinners must place their faith in Christ. It makes no difference if they are elect. God ordains the means of salvation; the means being the preaching of the Gospel. I believe the Holy Spirit first regenerates the sinner and then the sinner responds in faith. Synergists disagree with regeneration preceding faith. That is one of the things that divides the two campsClick to expand... -
Iconoclast said: ↑Disobedience on the part of the sheep, a proud spirit, self will can hinder the reception of the truth in the same way a husband who does not dwell with his wife according to knowledge has his prayers hinderedClick to expand...
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steaver said: ↑This sounds a bit different than what I usually hear from Calvinist. Usually they insist there is no placing of faith but that the faith is given by God, so it just happens because God made it happen.Click to expand...
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Grace, faith, and salvation are all part of the gift of God. That said, yes, the sinner must exercise faith; he must believe. No Monergist denies that. If they do they are wrong. -
Reformed said: ↑Well, faith is a gift from God. Sinners do not possess saving faith in and of themselves. The very faith they need to exercise in order to believe is given by God.
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Grace, faith, and salvation are all part of the gift of God. That said, yes, the sinner must exercise faith; he must believe. No Monergist denies that. If they do they are wrong.Click to expand...
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