Repent and believe

[Reformingstudent]

Was the command to repent and believe the gospel given to the elect only or to all? Dumb question I know but I had to ask.

 

[WrittenFromUtopia]

Originally posted by Reformingstudent
Was the command to repent and believe the gospel given to the elect only or to all? Dumb question I know but I had to ask.

The command is given to all, indiscriminately.

 

[Pilgrim]

Originally posted by Reformingstudent
Was the command to repent and believe the gospel given to the elect only or to all? Dumb question I know but I had to ask.

Acts 17:30-31

Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.

 

[Reformingstudent]

If God knows only those He gives repentance to will turn to Him any way why command from others what He knows they can not or will not do? Is it because they Can if they would? Just wondering.

Thanks

 

[BobVigneault]

It marks the obedient (did according to the Word of the Lord) from the disobedient rebels. Man is held accountable for his actions. Righteousness is declared and imputed but then we look to see if righteous action follows. A man can repent if he wills but he will not unless God changes his nature. Man is still responsible.

 

[Semper Fidelis]

Originally posted by Reformingstudent
If God knows only those He gives repentance to will turn to Him any way why command from others what He knows they can not or will not do? Is it because they Can if they would? Just wondering.

Thanks

One reason is that the command of the Gospel always cuts to the heart - to some for salvation and to others to convict them even more of their rejection of God. To those who embrace the Gospel it is the fragrance of life, to those who reject it, the Gospel is the stench of death.

 

[alwaysreforming]

Originally posted by Reformingstudent
If God knows only those He gives repentance to will turn to Him any way why command from others what He knows they can not or will not do? Is it because they Can if they would? Just wondering.

Thanks

The following Scripture came to mind when I read your question:

"Be ye perfect, as your Father in Heaven is perfect."

I know God commands this, but I cannot and will not do it. What a wretched man I am!

 

[~~Susita~~]

I believe it has to do with the general and specific call, does it not?