TULIPites and Romans 8

The Apostle Paul is not teaching a doctrine of individual election to salvation in these verses. The verses are often used as proof text for this doctrine but they can only be used as support if taken out of context. These verses must be taken in their context from Chapters 7 to 11.

The People he wrote were struggling with law and grace. They were bound by tradition. Paul explained to them that they had been set free, they were saved by faith.
They did not understand that, if they were set free, why did they still deal with the inclination of the flesh. They knew that the law condemns and that the desire and actions of the flesh brought forth this just condemnation.
Paul explained to them that while they were saved now through faith, the body would be redeemed at a future time. Till that time came, they would have to “…mortify the deeds of the body…” Romans 8:13. They would be enabled to do this through the Spirit which dwelt in them. Romans 8:14.
Paul told them that God’s plan was in place before the creation and that He would complete His plan in them – once saved they would be glorified. They could have confidence in their salvation, even though they struggled with their flesh. Romans 8:30.
Paul is not presenting a doctrine of individual election to salvation. Elect and predestinated speaks of the individual, because salvation is personal.  Elect and predestination does not speak of individual being chosen to salvation and others chosen to damnation.  Elect and predestination speaks of ‘the saved’ just as the same elect and predestination speaks of ‘the Nation of Israel’.  A believer is elected and predestinated to be in Christ at the time of salvation.

He was setting forth the differences in death and life, Law and Grace, Flesh and Spirit.

About sjbjburke

I am an evangelist that enjoys Bible study and I look forward to posting outlines and receiving helpful comments. My wife and I celebrated our 52nd wedding anniversary in 2022 and we enjoy serving the Lord together.
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1 Response to TULIPites and Romans 8

  1. pastorjburke says:

    Very clear explanation of the context for these often mis-used verses.

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