{"id":5542,"date":"2023-10-27T11:38:25","date_gmt":"2023-10-27T18:38:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/?page_id=5542"},"modified":"2023-12-20T13:36:48","modified_gmt":"2023-12-20T21:36:48","slug":"what-is-unconditional-election","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Unconditional Election? The 2nd Doctrine in TULIP"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-center is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-1 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/person-emoji.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4479\" style=\"width:28px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-popcorn-font-b-font-size\">By <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/about\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/author\/drjohnjackson\/\" target=\"_blank\">Dr. John Jackson<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/file-emoji.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4480\" style=\"width:28px;height:auto\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"taxonomy-category wp-block-post-terms has-popcorn-font-b-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/category\/grace\/\" rel=\"tag\">Grace<\/a><span class=\"wp-block-post-terms__separator\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/category\/grace\/types\/irresistible-grace\/\" rel=\"tag\">Irresistible Grace<\/a><span class=\"wp-block-post-terms__separator\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/category\/grace\/types\/\" rel=\"tag\">Types of Grace<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-popcorn-secondary-color-border-color is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:5px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-popcorn-font-m-font-size is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700\"><summary>What You&#8217;ll Learn<\/summary>\n<nav class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents has-popcorn-font-b-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:400\"><ol><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#understanding-unconditional-election\">Understanding Unconditional Election<\/a><ol><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#unconditional-election-and-calvinism\">Unconditional Election and Calvinism<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#origin-and-history-of-the-doctrine\">Origin and History of the Doctrine<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#key-scriptures-supporting-unconditional-election\">Key Scriptures Supporting Unconditional Election<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#unpacking-the-doctrine-of-unconditional-election\">Unpacking the Doctrine of Unconditional Election<\/a><ol><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#the-role-of-calvinism-in-unconditional-election\">The Role of Calvinism in Unconditional Election<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#exploring-romans-9-and-ephesians\">Exploring Romans 9 and Ephesians<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#relationship-between-unconditional-election-and-the-doctrine-of-total-depravity\">Relationship between Unconditional Election and the Doctrine of Total Depravity<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#critical-perspectives-and-objections-to-unconditional-election\">Critical Perspectives and Objections to Unconditional Election<\/a><ol><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#challenges-to-god-s-fairness-and-justice\">Challenges to God&#8217;s Fairness and Justice<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#addressing-concerns-of-predestination-and-determinism\">Addressing Concerns of Predestination and Determinism<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#reformed-theology-and-the-defense-of-unconditional-election\">Reformed Theology and the Defense of Unconditional Election<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a class=\"wp-block-table-of-contents__entry\" href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/#grace-ambassador-bringing-heaven-to-earth\">Grace Ambassador: Bringing Heaven To Earth<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/nav>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-popcorn-success-text-border-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-5 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:5px;background-color:#dddddd\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-3 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\">\n<p class=\"has-popcorn-quinary-color-color has-popcorn-success-text-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Foundational to Calvinism<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-unconditional-election\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Unconditional election<\/span><\/a> is a core doctrine in Calvinism, emphasizing God\u2019s sovereign choice in salvation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>God\u2019s Sovereignty and Grace<\/strong>: Salvation is a result of God\u2019s grace alone, not dependent on human merit or actions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scriptural Roots<\/strong>: Key scriptures like Romans 9 and Ephesians 1 provide the biblical foundation for this doctrine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Critiques and Fairness<\/strong>: The doctrine faces critiques about God\u2019s fairness and the role of human free will.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reformed Theology\u2019s Defense<\/strong>: Proponents defend unconditional election, highlighting its role in upholding God&#8217;s sovereignty and eliminating human boasting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Historical and Theological Depth<\/strong>: Understanding unconditional election requires exploring its historical origins, biblical basis, and engaging with its critiques and defenses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"understanding-unconditional-election\">Understanding Unconditional Election<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is Unconditional Election?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-popcorn-info-text-color has-popcorn-info-background-background-color has-text-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:5px;border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--popcorn-info-text);border-left-width:8px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<p class=\"popcorn-alert-text-info\"><strong>Unconditional Election<\/strong> refers to the belief in Calvinism that God selects certain people for salvation solely out of His grace and mercy, not based on their actions, merits, or faith. This choice is made by God alone, highlighting His sovereign nature in the process of salvation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"unconditional-election-and-calvinism\">Unconditional Election and Calvinism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unconditional election is a pivotal doctrine in Calvinism, asserting that God chooses certain individuals for salvation based entirely on His grace, irrespective of their actions or choices. This decision reflects God\u2019s sovereign will, established before the creation of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sovereign Choice<\/strong>: God\u2019s election is a demonstration of His supreme authority, illustrating His control over all aspects of creation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Not Based on Merit<\/strong>: The chosen ones are not selected because of their deeds, faith, or potential; it is purely a gift from <a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/grace\/what-is-grace\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">God\u2019s grace<\/span><\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"origin-and-history-of-the-doctrine\">Origin and History of the Doctrine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The doctrine of unconditional election has its roots in history, initially formed by Augustine and later refined by John Calvin in the 16th century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Augustinian Foundations<\/strong>: Augustine laid the groundwork with his focus on predestination and God\u2019s sovereign choice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Calvin\u2019s Development<\/strong>: John Calvin expanded these ideas, embedding them into a comprehensive theological system known as Calvinism.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Theologian<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Contribution to Unconditional Election<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Augustine<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Emphasized predestination and God\u2019s sovereign choice<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">John Calvin<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Developed and popularized the doctrine within Calvinism<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-scriptures-supporting-unconditional-election\">Key Scriptures Supporting Unconditional Election<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Various passages in the Bible are interpreted by Calvinists to support unconditional election, highlighting God\u2019s sovereign role in the process of salvation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Romans 9<\/strong>: Paul addresses God\u2019s choice of Jacob over Esau, emphasizing that their actions prior to birth did not influence God\u2019s decision. This underlines that God\u2019s election is rooted in His purpose and will.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ephesians 1<\/strong>: Paul talks about predestination and adoption, attributing these processes to God\u2019s will and grace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These scriptures reinforce the central tenets of unconditional election, highlighting God\u2019s sovereignty, the non-reliance on human merit for salvation, and grounding God\u2019s choice in His purpose and pleasure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"unpacking-the-doctrine-of-unconditional-election\">Unpacking the Doctrine of Unconditional Election<\/h2>\n\n\n<!-- This site is converting visitors into subscribers and customers with OptinMonster - https:\/\/optinmonster.com :: Campaign Title: Main Inline -->\n<div id=\"om-aq5yba3rbk7w2qoskykr-holder\"><\/div>\n<script>(function(d,u,ac){var s=d.createElement('script');s.type='text\/javascript';s.src='https:\/\/a.omappapi.com\/app\/js\/api.min.js';s.async=true;s.dataset.user=u;s.dataset.campaign=ac;d.getElementsByTagName('head')[0].appendChild(s);})(document,301708,'aq5yba3rbk7w2qoskykr');<\/script>\n<!-- \/ OptinMonster -->\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-role-of-calvinism-in-unconditional-election\">The Role of Calvinism in Unconditional Election<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Calvinism plays a crucial role in shaping the doctrine of unconditional election, offering a systematic theological framework that emphasizes God&#8217;s sovereign choice in salvation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Foundation in Sovereignty<\/strong>: Calvinism holds that God&#8217;s sovereignty is the basis for His ability to choose individuals for salvation without any conditions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>TULIP<\/strong>: Unconditional election is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/five-points-of-calvinism\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">five points of Calvinism<\/span><\/a>, represented by the &#8220;U&#8221; in the acronym TULIP.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Table: The Five Points of Calvinism (TULIP)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Point<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Meaning<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">T<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Total Depravity<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">U<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Unconditional Election<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">L<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/limited-atonement\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Limited Atonement<\/span><\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">I<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/what-is-irresistible-grace\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Irresistible Grace<\/span><\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">P<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/perseverance-of-the-saints\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Perseverance of the Saints<\/span><\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>John Calvin&#8217;s Influence<\/strong>: John Calvin, the founder of Calvinism, was instrumental in articulating and spreading the doctrine of unconditional election.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"exploring-romans-9-and-ephesians\">Exploring Romans 9 and Ephesians<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Romans 9 and Ephesians are pivotal chapters in the Bible that provide deep insights into the concept of unconditional election.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Romans 9<\/strong>: Paul discusses God\u2019s sovereignty and the nature of His choice, using the example of Jacob and Esau to illustrate that God&#8217;s election is not based on human actions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ephesians 1<\/strong>: This chapter highlights predestination and God&#8217;s eternal purpose, underscoring that individuals are chosen for salvation according to God&#8217;s will and grace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key Verses from Romans 9 and Ephesians<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Book<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Verse<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Content<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Romans 9<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">11-13<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">&#8220;Though they were not yet born, and had done nothing either good or bad\u2014in order that God&#8217;s purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls\u2014 she was told, \u201cThe older will serve the younger.\u201d As it is written, \u201cJacob I loved, but Esau I hated.\u201d&#8221;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Ephesians 1<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">4-5<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">&#8220;Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will.&#8221;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Doctrine of Election<\/strong>: These chapters collectively contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the doctrine of election, underscoring the Calvinist view of God\u2019s unconditional choice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"relationship-between-unconditional-election-and-the-doctrine-of-total-depravity\">Relationship between Unconditional Election and the Doctrine of Total Depravity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The doctrine of unconditional election is intricately connected to the doctrine of total depravity, another key tenet of Calvinism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Human Inability<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/total-depravity\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Total depravity<\/span><\/a> teaches that humanity is so fallen and sinful that no one is able to come to God or choose salvation on their own.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>God\u2019s Grace<\/strong>: Unconditional election highlights that it is solely God&#8217;s grace and choice that brings individuals to salvation, not their own efforts or decisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Complementary Doctrines<\/strong>: Together, these doctrines underscore the Calvinist view of salvation, emphasizing God&#8217;s sovereign role and the helplessness of humanity without His grace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These elements collectively provide a comprehensive understanding of the doctrine of unconditional election, showcasing its roots in Calvinism, its biblical foundations, and its relationship with other key Calvinist doctrines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\" id=\"critical-perspectives-and-objections-to-unconditional-election\">Critical Perspectives and Objections to Unconditional Election<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide popcorn-box-shadow has-popcorn-tertiary-color-color has-popcorn-secondary-color-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-41e4ab35378aac627428a809da7c9204 is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:5px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-right:0;padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:0\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-popcorn-tertiary-color-color has-text-color has-popcorn-font-m-font-size\" style=\"line-height:1\">If You Want Results-Focused Consulting or an Unforgettable Speaker, Inquire About Booking Dr. Jackson Today.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-75 is-style-fill\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-popcorn-quinary-color-color has-popcorn-tertiary-color-background-color has-text-color has-background has-border-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/mgyb.co\/s\/iDdok\" style=\"border-color:#3b84b6;border-radius:10px\">Speaking \/ Consulting<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"challenges-to-god-s-fairness-and-justice\">Challenges to God&#8217;s Fairness and Justice<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Critics of unconditional election often raise concerns about the implications of the doctrine on God\u2019s fairness and justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Perceived Inequality<\/strong>: Some argue that unconditional election creates a scenario where God appears to favor some individuals over others without any clear or just reason.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Questions of Free Will<\/strong>: Critics also question how human free will can exist alongside a doctrine that asserts God unconditionally elects some for salvation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Common Objections and Responses<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Objection<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Response<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">It\u2019s unfair for God to choose some and not others<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">God\u2019s choices are grounded in His sovereign will and grace, not human merit<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Unconditional election negates free will<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Calvinists argue that human free will is compatible with God\u2019s sovereign election, as humans willingly follow their own desires, which are ultimately shaped by God\u2019s sovereign will<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"addressing-concerns-of-predestination-and-determinism\">Addressing Concerns of Predestination and Determinism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unconditional election is closely tied to the concepts of predestination and determinism, leading to various debates and discussions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Predestination<\/strong>: This is the belief that all events, including salvation, are predetermined by God.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Determinism<\/strong>: A broader philosophical concept where all events, including human actions, are determined completely by previously existing causes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/irresistible-grace\/calvinism-vs-arminianism\/\" class=\"ek-link\"><strong>Calvinist Perspective<\/strong><\/a>: Calvinists hold that while God predestines individuals for salvation, this does not negate human responsibility or the genuine offer of salvation to all.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"reformed-theology-and-the-defense-of-unconditional-election\">Reformed Theology and the Defense of Unconditional Election<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Reformed theology robustly defends the doctrine of unconditional election, providing scriptural and theological arguments in its favor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Biblical Foundation<\/strong>: Proponents point to various scriptures, such as Romans 9 and Ephesians 1, as clear evidence of unconditional election.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>God\u2019s Sovereignty<\/strong>: The doctrine is seen as upholding God\u2019s sovereignty, emphasizing that He is in complete control of salvation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Not Based on Human Merit<\/strong>: Supporters argue that unconditional election rightly removes any grounds for human boasting, placing the focus solely on God\u2019s grace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reformed Theology and Unconditional Election<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Aspect<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Description<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Scriptural Support<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Cites specific passages that highlight God\u2019s sovereign choice in salvation<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Upholding Sovereignty<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Emphasizes God\u2019s absolute authority and control in the process of salvation<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Removing Human Boasting<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Ensures that salvation is seen as a gift of grace, not something earned or deserved<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>These discussions and defenses collectively provide a rounded view of the challenges and perspectives surrounding unconditional election, showcasing the debates, the scriptural foundations, and the theological arguments that surround this complex doctrine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group popcorn-box-shadow has-border-color has-popcorn-secondary-color-border-color has-popcorn-tertiary-color-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-width:3px;border-radius:10px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-2 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:35%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized has-custom-border\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mgyb.co\/s\/Eafgm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"grace ambassador book\" class=\"has-border-color has-popcorn-tertiary-color-border-color wp-image-2720\" style=\"border-radius:20px;width:307px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-370x370.jpg 370w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-210x210.jpg 210w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-770x770.jpg 770w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-940x940.jpg 940w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Grace-Ambassador-Mockup.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);flex-basis:65%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-popcorn-quinary-color-color has-text-color has-link-color has-popcorn-font-l-font-size wp-elements-87d3a12c0381a310c0553d82d3b5085c\" id=\"grace-ambassador-bringing-heaven-to-earth\">Grace Ambassador: Bringing Heaven To Earth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-popcorn-quinary-color-color has-text-color has-link-color has-popcorn-font-b-font-size wp-elements-95ef2c312c2fa6868eec8a8913084bb2\">As believers, we have received unimaginable grace from the Father. Unfortunately, we often separate our spiritual life from our everyday lives. We fail to value the grace given to us, and we miss the opportunity to bring heaven to earth. Then we wonder what light we can bring to a world in deep darkness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-2 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-width wp-block-button__width-75 has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-popcorn-font-b-font-size\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-popcorn-tertiary-color-color has-popcorn-secondary-color-background-color has-text-color has-background has-border-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/mgyb.co\/s\/Eafgm\" style=\"border-color:#00253d;border-width:3px;border-radius:10px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Get Your Copy Now <\/em><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Dr. John Jackson Key Takeaways Understanding Unconditional Election What is Unconditional Election? Unconditional Election refers to the belief in Calvinism that God selects certain people for salvation solely out of His grace and mercy, not based on their actions, merits, or faith. This choice is made by God alone, highlighting His sovereign nature in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5546,"parent":5457,"menu_order":4,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"wp-custom-template-blog-pages","meta":{"_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[123,270,265],"tags":[],"featured_image_urls":{"full":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election.jpg",960,550,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-300x172.jpg",300,172,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-768x440.jpg",768,440,true],"large":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election.jpg",960,550,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election.jpg",960,550,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election.jpg",960,550,false],"woocommerce_thumbnail":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-740x550.jpg",740,550,true],"woocommerce_single":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-940x539.jpg",940,539,true],"woocommerce_gallery_thumbnail":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-100x100.jpg",100,100,true],"yarpp-thumbnail":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-120x120.jpg",120,120,true],"trx_addons-thumb-huge":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election.jpg",960,550,false],"trx_addons-thumb-big":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-770x433.jpg",770,433,true],"trx_addons-thumb-medium":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-370x208.jpg",370,208,true],"trx_addons-thumb-small":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-270x152.jpg",270,152,true],"trx_addons-thumb-portrait":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-370x493.jpg",370,493,true],"trx_addons-thumb-avatar":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-370x370.jpg",370,370,true],"trx_addons-thumb-tiny":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-75x75.jpg",75,75,true],"trx_addons-thumb-masonry-big":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-770x441.jpg",770,441,true],"trx_addons-thumb-masonry":["https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/unconditional-election-370x212.jpg",370,212,true]},"post_excerpt_stackable":"<p>By Dr. John Jackson Grace, Irresistible Grace, Types of Grace What You&#8217;ll Learn Understanding Unconditional ElectionUnconditional Election and CalvinismOrigin and History of the DoctrineKey Scriptures Supporting Unconditional ElectionUnpacking the Doctrine of Unconditional ElectionThe Role of Calvinism in Unconditional ElectionExploring Romans 9 and EphesiansRelationship between Unconditional Election and the Doctrine of Total DepravityCritical Perspectives and Objections to Unconditional ElectionChallenges to God&#8217;s Fairness and JusticeAddressing Concerns of Predestination and DeterminismReformed Theology and the Defense of Unconditional ElectionGrace Ambassador: Bringing Heaven To Earth Key Takeaways Foundational to Calvinism: Unconditional election is a core doctrine in Calvinism, emphasizing God\u2019s sovereign choice in salvation. God\u2019s&hellip;<\/p>\n","category_list":"<a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/category\/grace\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Grace<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/category\/grace\/types\/irresistible-grace\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Irresistible Grace<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/category\/grace\/types\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Types of Grace<\/a>","author_info":{"name":"Dr. John Jackson","url":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/author\/drjohnjackson\/"},"comments_num":"0 comments","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5542"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5542"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5542\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5815,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5542\/revisions\/5815"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5457"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5546"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5542"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5542"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drjohnjackson.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5542"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}