Are We Handpicked or Invited? Exploring Biblical Tensions on Salvation
In this article, you will learn how Acts 13:48 contradicts 2 Peter 3:9, 1 Timothy 2:4, Matthew 23:37, John 3:16 and Ezekiel 18:32. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The debate on whether salvation is exclusive to certain individuals or accessible to everyone is a theological puzzle that many ponder. At the heart of this discussion is Acts 13:48, where it appears that belief in Jesus and eternal life is reserved for those already "ordained," akin to being handed an exclusive invitation to a grand feast.
Contrasted with this notion are several other biblical verses that suggest a more inclusive invitation open to all. For instance, 2 Peter 3:9 highlights a God who is not willing for "any to perish" but desires repentance universally—comparable to a host hoping that all guests, not just a select few, attend their gathering. In a similar vein, 1 Timothy 2:4 speaks of God's desire for all people to be saved, suggesting a buffet where everyone has a chance at the spread, not just those with special reservations.
The imagery in Matthew 23:37 presents Jesus as a nurturing figure, longing to gather all of Jerusalem's children, much like a shepherd wishing to unite an entire flock rather than just the chosen sheep. John 3:16 emphasizes that salvation is available to "whosoever" believes, portraying a universal door unlocked for everyone willing to enter. Lastly, Ezekiel 18:32 underscores God’s call for all to repent, portraying a beacon of hope for all travelers in darkness, not just a few.
This apparent discord raises questions about divine love and justice. Is the message of salvation a select invitation or an open call? These opposing perspectives continue to fuel rich discussions among theologians and believers alike, each exploring how these verses harmonize the concepts of divine sovereignty and human responsibility in the journey of faith.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Acts 13:48 | And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. |
| 2. | 2 Peter 3:9 | The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. |
| 3. | 1 Timothy 2:4 | Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. |
| 4. | Matthew 23:37 | O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, [thou] that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under [her] wings, and ye would not! |
| 5. | John 3:16 | For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. |
| 6. | Ezekiel 18:32 | For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others] |