Many people have stumbled over this question through the centuries. Do we have to choose a side?
Talking Points:
- God is sovereign and knows all things, and he draws people to himself. But anyone who seeks God will find him, and he finds no pleasure in the judgement and death of the wicked. Ephesians 1:4-5, Romans 8:28-30, 2 Peter 3:9, Romans 10:9-10
- It’s a divine mystery that two opposing thoughts can actually both be true. We may not be able to harmonize these thoughts but we also can’t deny that both are found in Scripture.
- Almost every major doctrine in the Bible has a paradox that can’t be resolved. It’s our job to humbly seek God’s truth, not be the judge of it.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What has your understanding of this debate been up to this point?
- Do you know someone who is firmly in one camp or the other? How has their viewpoint influenced you or turned you off?
- Read Ephesians 1:4-5 and Romans 8:28-30. What do these verses say about God?
- Read Romans 10:9-10. What do these verses say about us?
- In your opinion, how do you resolve the paradox? What are the benefits to the calvinist view? What are the benefits to the Arminian view?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
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