My view on Eternal Security / Perseverance of the Saints

My view on Eternal Security / Perseverance of the Saints

1: God draws people to Jesus through the Gospel and Scriptures (John 6:44-47; Romans 10:14-17) All people are drawn at some point in their lives. (John 12:31-32)

2: The Holy Spirit enlightens and convicts those who are drawn (Hebrews 6:4-5; John 16:8-9)

3: Jesus grants each person a certain time limit to choose to repent or to reject Him. (Revelation 2:21)

4: If a drawn and enlightened person rejects Jesus and refuses to repent, they are doomed. There is no possibility of salvation left. (Hebrews 6:6; Hebrews 10:26-27; Revelation 2:21-23; Matthew 23:37-38)

5: Anyone who rejects Jesus after being enlightened, never truly was a Christian to begin with. (1 John 2:19)

6: If a drawn and enlightened person accepts Jesus and repents, they are then born again and saved. (John 3:3; Acts 16:31; Romans 10:9)

7: A person who has been truly born again cannot lose their salvation. (John 5:24; John 6:37; John 10:28)

Why I Reject Calvinism

These are the reasons I reject Calvinism's TULIP doctrines:

T-- "Total Depravity": I reject Total Depravity because I believe it to be unscriptural, after reading Romans 2:13-16; Acts 10:2-4; Acts 10:34-35; Acts 17:27-29.

U-- "Unconditional Election": I reject Unconditional Election because I believe it to be unscriptural, after reading John 12:31-32; 1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9.

L-- "Limited Atonement": I reject Limited Atonement because I believe it to be unscriptural, after reading 1 John 2:2; Hebrews 2:9; 1 Timothy 2:6.

I-- "Irresistible Grace": I reject Irresistible Grace because I believe it to be unscriptural, after reading Acts 7:51; Matthew 23:37; Romans 2:4-5; Ezekiel chapter 18.

I do accept the "P"-- Perseverance of the Saints. I do believe this is Biblical. 

I also reject Calvinism's claim that God ordains or takes pleasure in evil, after reading James 1:13 and Ezekiel 33:11.

"Majestic and Beautiful" -- My Review of the New MEV Bible Translation

While reading the new "Modern English Version" (MEV) Bible and writing this review of it, two words kept coming into my mind -- "Majestic" and "Beautiful."

I own several English Bible versions, and I always love delving into new translations and versions, to see if they give me a new, deeper insight into God's inspired Holy Scriptures. Sometimes though, I've gotten a little cynical about whether we actually need 20+ different English translations, and what the benefit actually is on a few of the ones out there.

I thought I was aware of (and owned) every English translation which had been made, however, about 5 weeks ago, I was shopping in my local Walmart, and as I walked past the book aisle, I noticed some Bibles on the shelf. First I saw the usual NIV and NKJV editions, but then my eye caught sight of a different one. My first thought was "What in the world is this 'MEV' Bible, and why do we need another new version?"

Well, a week went by, and then I could no longer resist, I had to go back to Walmart and purchase this "MEV" Bible and find out just what it had to offer, and if it was different or better than any of the other dozens of English Bibles I possessed.

Textual Base of the New Testament

The first thing I noticed was that this was a translation of the Textus Receptus ("Received Text"), the traditional Greek manuscripts of the New Testament, from which the 1611 King James Version and 1982 New King James Version were translated. Almost every other modern major Bible translation is rendered from the Critical Text, also known as the "Alexandrian Text" or the "Eclectic Text" (other names for it include: "Westcott & Hort Text" and "United Bible Societies' Text.") My personal view, based on my research into the topic, is that the Critical Text is more accurate than the Textus Receptus, however, I do prefer and enjoy having the additional verses and words from the Textus Receptus available in my Bible, instead of having them completely deleted out of the text. (For further reading on this topic, visit these Wikipedia pages: Textus Receptus and Alexandrian Text-type.)

Normally I prefer my main Bible to be based on the Critical Text, but the MEV is so good in the other areas (which I will describe below), that I actually want to make the MEV the main Bible I use now, even over the ESV, NASB, and NIV.

 

The Beauty of the Poetry and Traditional Words

I am simply mesmerized and astonished at both the beauty and majestic reverence I see and feel when I read the Psalms and the book of Job in the MEV Bible. It retains (and even improves!) the beautiful wording found in the old King James Version. This is probably because the translators used the King James Version as the English base text while they were making their new translation from the Hebrew and Greek. One of their goals was to make sure the beautiful English wording stayed in this new translation, even while making it much clearer for the modern English reader.

I was happy to see that the MEV kept the reference to God's "son" at Psalm 2:12 (and at Proverbs 30:4), which some new translations have removed.

I also liked how the MEV is one of the very rare modern Bibles to retain the name "Lucifer" in Isaiah 14:12.

I am impressed that this version does not try to hide the fact that God "changes His mind" at Jonah 3:10 like some Bibles do.

As far as I can tell, the MEV doesn't seem to have too much of a theological bias in its translation choices. In other words, it's not overly Calvinistic or Armenian, and it's not overly Trinitarian or non-Trinitarian.

The MEV has chosen to keep many of the traditional words from the King James Version, including "propitiation," "sanctification," "justification," "grace," and "saints," which I appreciate, although, a small "Bible-Words-Dictionary" in the back of the Bible would probably be very helpful to a lot of new Bible readers.

 

Harmonizing the Old Testament with the Septuagint Quotes in the New Testament

I enjoyed seeing the MEV's Psalms conform to the way the New Testament writers quoted those verses from the Septuagint. For example, Psalm 16:10 having the word "corruption" instead of "the pit" (Compare Acts 2:25-28) and the translation, "Your throne, O God" in Psalm 45:6 (Compare Hebrews 1:8). This is showing great reverence and respect for the Apostles and the other inspired writers of the New Testament.

Capitalizing the Pronouns that Refer to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit

 

In my opinion, it shows a lot of respect and reverent honor to capitalize the pronouns referring to God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Not only that, but it also makes many verses much clearer, being able to easily see if God is being spoken of/to or if someone else is.

This isn't a dealbreaker for me in choosing a Bible, but it certainly is an added benefit.

Clarity of the Text while Still Not Speaking Down To Us

 

I absolutely love the way verses are worded. It gives you the impression that the scholars and translators working on the MEV worked extra hard to provide clarity, yet, at the same time, to keep the elevated phrasing found in the King James Version, and not to over-simplify or "dumb-down" the Scriptures in such a way where it feels they are speaking down to you. 

Some Bible versions out there almost seem like they think they need to re-word everything into a kindergarten reading level. Thankfully the MEV does not do this. While reading Job, I was very happy to see a few challenging words that I had to google the definitions of.

Just wait until you read Romans in the MEV-- wow! I was blown away by the incredible way it was worded. It just pops out at you, and grips you, and you don't want to put it down.

 

The Helpful Headings

This is a very helpful feature found in most modern Bible translations. Bolded headings either summarizing what follows or telling you who the speaker is in the following passage. I am very glad to see these headings in the MEV, which were lacking in the KJV.

Two good examples of extremely helpful headings are in Song of Solomon and Job, letting the reader know who is speaking in each passage, which can, at times, be very hard to discern.

Additional Features

I was impressed by the cross-reference system found in the middle column on each page of the MEV. Very helpful in studying all the passages related to a certain topic.

I enjoy the words of Christ being in red, although I know some Christians do not. I like it because it puts the utmost emphasis where it belongs-- the teachings of Jesus. (See Hebrews 1:1-2; 2:1-4)

The mini-concordance in the back of the Bible is helpful, but not very many passages are included for each word. I would love to see a larger concordance for the MEV.

The colorful maps in the back were actually quite impressive.

Some words which have been supplied by the translators that were not in the Hebrew or Greek manuscripts, are in italics in the MEV. I commend and applaud translation team for choosing to notify readers when they've added words in to finish the thought in English, just as the original King James Version did.

 

In summary

If I could only choose one Bible translation to have, then I would choose the MEV ("Modern English Version"). It truly is that good. 

One final thing worth noting and applauding, is that Passio started this Bible translation project for our troops, so that they would have a new, clear, modern Bible to read as they defend our nation.

My Suggestions and Hopes for the MEV

I highly recommend that Passio (the organization behind the MEV), in future editions of the MEV, add a page or two at the beginning or end of the Bible, explaining more about the history of the Textus Receptus, and why you chose it over the Alexandrian Text.

I also suggest adding footnotes to each verse or phrase which is present in the Textus Receptus, but that is not found in the Alexandrian Text, just to keep the reader informed.

Consider adding footnotes to certain verses where there are big disagreements among scholars in the way it should be translated, such as Jude 1:4-5, John 1:18, and 1 Timothy 3:16.

I would love to see the MEV Translation available in a Chronological Bible, a Study Bible, and in the "Names of God" Bible, which uses the Divine Name, "Yahweh" or "Jehovah."

I would also be extremely happy to see a separate MEV edition with the Old Testament based on the Septuagint Greek instead of the Hebrew. There currently isn't very many good or easily accessible modern Septuagint translations available at the average bookstore.

It is time for Christians to accept evolution

There are many reasons why I think it is long overdue for all Christians to finally accept what science says about evolution. Below I will show these reasons.

1: The Bible tells people to pay attention to nature to see the glory of God (Psalm 19; Romans 1:19-20). No one pays closer attention to nature than scientists. Scientists know far more about nature than the average Christian does. Christians shouldn't bury their heads in the sand. Therefore, the humble, honest Christian should defer to the experts on nature.

2: There is no contradiction between what science shows regarding evolution, and what Genesis reveals about God's creation of the universe. For example, see my other blog post, "You can believe in Adam & Eve and Evolution." Also you can google to research other interpretations of Genesis. You should especially visit BioLogos. (For additional reading, please see Allegorical Interpretations of Genesis)

3: Christians are commanded by the New Testament to be in subjection to the government leaders and officials (Romans 13:1-4), and since they are promoting evolution as scientific fact, we should accept this without fighting, as long as no essential doctrine is at stake.

4: There is no contradiction between accepting evolution and believing in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There is no reason you can't believe in both Jesus saving us from sin and that evolution was the natural process God used to create life on earth.

5: Publicly opposing or condemning evolution or the scientists who teach it, makes Christianity look very bad and ignorant in the eyes of the world. If we want the world to take us seriously about anything we teach about God or Jesus, then we need to stop making ourselves look like fools when it comes to science.

6: We don't want our children or grandchildren falling behind in having the latest scientific knowledge or breakthroughs due to denying the fundamental theories of science, such as evolution.

The Living Word in the Psalms

Many people see a contradiction when they read Psalm 19 or 119, which seem to say that God's "Law" is eternal, and then compare that to Hebrews chapter 8 or the epistle of Galatians in the New Testament, which says that God's Law from the Old Testament has expired. Upon closer examination, this is not a contradiction at all.

There is a misunderstanding in too many churches today, where they teach that the "Word of God" refers just to the written Scriptures or the Law of Moses.

Let's look at what the Holy Bible actually has to say about what "God's Word" really is:

The Living Word of God

* The Apostle Peter wrote that the "Word of God" created the world, brought the Great Flood, and will one day bring about the Great Tribulation. (2 Peter 3:5-7) The epistle to the Hebrews also says that God's Word created the universe and that the powerful Word of Jesus sustains the universe. (Hebrews 11:3; Hebrews 1:3)

* The Psalms in the Old Testament proclaim the same thing: The universe was created by "The Word of God." (Psalm 33:6)

* In addition, according to John the Apostle, Jesus Christ's name in heaven was "The Word of God." (John 1:1-3; Revelation 19:13)

* Hebrews 4:12-13 declares that "the Word of God" is alive and powerful, and that we will stand before Him to explain our actions.

So we can see that the phrase "Word of God" or "God's Word" can have different meanings in different contexts. 

 

In some contexts, "The Word of God" means God's creative power or dynamic energy to accomplish His purpose, or to His principles and commands He gives us in our consciences. Sometimes it is the intuition or leading of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. In other contexts, the phrase refers to Jesus Christ. In still other places, "the Word" does refer to the written Bible. But none of the verses above make any sense if they are referring only to the written Scriptures or to the Law of Moses. This is why "context is king."

Now we'll check out Psalm 19 and 119 to determine what is meant by "the Word of God" in those contexts:

Psalm 19:1-4 (NET): "The heavens declare the glory of God; the sky displays his handiwork. Day after day it speaks out; night after night it reveals his greatness. There is no actual speech or word, nor is its voice literally heard. Yet its voice echoes throughout the earth; its words carry to the distant horizon."

MY COMMENTS: Here is a beautiful and poetical way of expressing the idea that God's creation reveals His glory. In this context, God's "Word" is being "spoken" without actual audible words by nature itself. This is not speaking of the written Scriptures. So "God's Word" can refer to God's created universe revealing His majesty and power to us.

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Psalm 19:4-7 (NET): "In the sky he has pitched a tent for the sun. Like a bridegroom it emerges from its chamber; like a strong man it enjoys running its course. It emerges from the distant horizon, and goes from one end of the sky to the other; nothing can escape its heat. The law of the Lord is perfect and preserves one’s life. The rules set down by the Lord are reliable  and impart wisdom to the inexperienced."

MY COMMENTS: But now the imagery shifts and "God's Word" or "law" is referring to the laws of nature God established by His Holy Spirit. These natural laws control the rotation of the earth, bringing about the rising and setting of the sun. This same "law" of God's Spirit also breathes life and imparts wisdom into human beings. This is not speaking of the written Scriptures. So "God's Word" can refer to the power of the Holy Spirit in establishing the natural laws, giving life to humans, or imparting wisdom to us (for example, through our consciences).
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Psalm 19:8-11 (NET): "The Lord’s precepts are fair and make one joyful. The Lord’s commands are pure and give insight for life. The commands to fear the Lord are right and endure forever. The judgments given by the Lord are trustworthy and absolutely just. They are of greater value than gold, than even a great amount of pure gold; they bring greater delight than honey, than even the sweetest honey from a honeycomb. Yes, your servant finds moral guidance there; those who obey them receive a rich reward."

MY COMMENTS: The meaning of "God's Word" shifts again here. Now the discussion changes to focus on the "Word of God" speaking moral guidance into your conscience through the Holy Spirit. This can refer to God's written Scriptures, but more likely, in this context, is speaking of the human conscience being enlightened by the Holy Spirit (compare also Psalm 19:12-14).
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Psalm 119:89-96 (NET): "O Lord, your instructions endure; they stand secure in heaven. You demonstrate your faithfulness to all generations. You established the earth and it stood firm. Today they stand firm by your decrees, for all things are your servants. If I had not found encouragement in your law, I would have died in my sorrow. I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have revived me. I belong to you. Deliver me! For I seek your precepts. The wicked prepare to kill me, yet I concentrate on your rules. I realize that everything has its limits, but your commands are beyond full comprehension."

MY COMMENTS: In this context, "God's Word" or "Instruction," is speaking of the natural laws which govern the universe and by which God formed the earth. God established these natural laws by His command. The psalmist here expresses his desire to follow and obey the commands of God, which, as we will see below, include God giving a special message and promise to the psalmist.
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Psalm 119:114-117 (NET): "You are my hiding place and my shield. I find hope in your word. Turn away from me, you evil men, so that I can observe the commands of my God. Sustain me as you promised, so that I will live. Do not disappoint me! Support me, so that I will be delivered. Then I will focus on your statutes continually."

MY COMMENTS: Here, "God's Word" refers to a special promise which God made to this psalmist, to save his life. So the "Word," "law," "statutes," and "commands" in this passage are God's messages and promises given directly to this psalmist. This is not speaking of the written Scriptures.

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Psalm 119:122-123 (NET): "Guarantee the welfare of your servant! Do not let the arrogant oppress me! My eyes grow tired as I wait for your deliverance, for your reliable promise to be fulfilled."

MY COMMENTS: Again, in this passage, "God's Word" is a special promise of deliverance given to this psalmist. This is not referring to the written Scriptures.

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In summary:

Don't assume that the expression "Word of God" or "God's Word" refers to the written Scriptures. Instead, examine the context to see what it actually means.