Highlighting an Important Series Critiquing The Calvinist Interpretation of Romans 9

Back in 2010 J.C. Thibodaux started what would eventually become a four part series on Romans 9, with special focus on the problems inherent in the typical Calvinist interpretation of Romans 9. This short series was slow going as it did not conclude until 2012.  For that reason it can be hard to follow the …

Where Calvinism Gets Romans 9 Wrong: Proof-Texting From a Translation Choice

So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. (Romans 9:16 ESV) Romans 9:16 is often cited by Calvinists to prove that who is saved is in no way connected with free will or any kind of "human effort." The problem with this claim is that the wording …

Where Calvinism Gets Romans 9 Wrong: “Not of Works” means “No Conditions”

10 And not only this, but when Rebecca also had conceived by one man, even by our father Isaac 11 (for the children not yet being born, nor having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works but of Him who calls), 12 it was …

Where Calvinism Gets Romans 9 Wrong: Prerogative Equals Unconditionality

Continuing with the series on Romans 9, we'll now address the issue of God's prerogative in saving who He wishes and how Calvinists often misinterpret its implications. God's Prerogative Reaffirmed When speaking to zealous Calvinists, especially those who are very young and/or "educated" by internet echo chambers, the strawmen abound. It's not uncommon to hear …

Where Calvinism Gets Romans 9 Wrong: Who do Jacob and Esau Represent?

After posting my exegesis of Romans 9, I deemed a follow-up series of posts necessary to show why the observations made therein are relevant to the debate on the conditionality of election. Interestingly, I've had a few comments that my exegesis sounds "Calvinistic;" this is quite far from the truth. Said post was actually foundational …

Romans 9 in Context: God’s Just Prerogative in Confounding All Confidence in the Law of Works

Introduction Romans 9 is one of the most controversial and often-misinterpreted passages of scripture among evangelicals. Controversy, however, should not make us timid when it comes to the things of God. This inspired chapter is valuable for teaching doctrine, and should not be ignored or glossed over. At the same time, it should not be …