Confused by Calvin Doctrine

From: Jennifer
To: The Path of Truth
Sent: Sunday, October 16, 2016 10:19 PM
Subject: Fw: John MacArthur, Calvinism

Hello,

My name is Jennifer and I am reaching out for some help because I am confused. Last February I came across a man on youtube talking about Christianity and the word-faith movement. I started watching his videos and I contacted him for some more information. I just felt a peace when listening to him speak. His name is Justin Peters and he runs a small ministry called the Justin Peter’s Ministry. He responded and we discussed election and the area of pre-destination. I became very upset because I was under the impression that there is no biblical proof of pre destination and if there is, according to Justin Peter’s,  why should anyone bother if their not in the selected group? He told me as for election, it is a very deep subject but it is thoroughly biblical.

He said, “It need not be anything to fear, though. Take a deep breath, it’s ok.” He said there is an excellent DVD on this topic entitled, Amazing Grace: A History and Theology of Calvinism. He suggested the websites of John MacArthur and Susan Heck, and for me to get a John MacArthur Bible as soon as possible. He says he has this Bible himself. He kindly recommended a doctrinally sound church in my area of Texas. I was so relieved because I felt he intercepted just in time and I didn’t see John MacArthur’s name on any list for false prophets of today. Then one day I saw his name thrown in on a web page and then this evening I see you also are saying he is basically a false prophet and that Calvinism stems from a really bad guy.

I would like to forward where he talks to be and gives me scripture regarding election. It is too long to re type!

I was not reared in a Christian home but as a young pre teen I started attending a Baptist church down the street. I accepted Jesus and was baptized at 13. I even said the “sinner’s” prayer, which I see listed on your page. Now Justin Peter’s also says there is no such thing as a sinner’s prayer. I eventually started going to another church when I started high school because I had friends going there and I began dating a guy who attended.  Eventually I stopped going all together and got caught up in trying to be popular and being on the drill team, shopping, hair, etc. I later would go to church now and again, but not faithfully; nor did I bring my children up in a faith based home, I am ashamed to say.,.Instead, I would find reasons not to go at all for many years. I realized I was attending non denominational, happy, feel good churches with all the pretty lights, music and show affects the few times I did go.

Honestly, I am so confused now. I don’t know who is a false prophet or not. I want to find and search the truth and a relationship with Christ. I also have children and a 5 year old grandson, husband and mom that I need to minister to. How can I do that when I am confused myself and cannot properly witness to them?

I just turned 51 yesterday, and over the last few years I have become more and more concerned about salvation for my loved ones and everyone else as well. I guess as I reach this stage of my life, I think more about the meaning of my life while on this earth, my examples to my loved ones and others. I think about things I didn’t years ago. Maybe I’m rambling, and if so, I apologize. My husband and I have been married 20 years and we have a daughter who just turned 20. My youngest daughter, whom I am referring to, does want a relationship with Christ and she wants to find a church home with me. I believe my husband will attend with us some, and I pray his heart will be open to receiving Christ. I want this for all my immediate family, and for everyone else as well; friends, acquaintances, enemies too!

I would appreciate any direction or information on these subjects.

Sincerely,
Jennifer

From: Jennifer
To: The Path of Truth
Sent: Sunday, October 16, 2016 10:14 PM
Subject: forwarded email in regards to election and pre destination from Justin Peters

Justin recommended Duncaville Faith, and the pastor is Jason Hillard. The church’s website is Faith Baptist Church
Is this a church that believes in pre destination? I just feel lost at this point.

He suggested reading Grace to You and visiting Susan Heck’s website and John MacArthur’s as well.

Regarding election, the Bible teaches both the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man – both are true. We need not fear that someone will go to Hell because they are not elect. They will go to Hell because they have “suppressed the truth in unrighteousness” per Romans 1:18. No one will go to Hell who does not deserve to go there. Also, we can rest in the Attributes of God. God will never act in way that is contrary to His nature and His nature is that of absolute perfect righteousness and love. 

From: Paul Cohen and Victor Hafichuk
To: Jennifer
Sent: Saturday, October 22, 2016 7:35 AM
Subject: Re: John MacArthur, Calvinism/Justin Peters

Hi Jennifer,

We hear you and understand the reason for your confusion. You’re trying to find the appropriate building blocks to a proper relationship with God by looking to men who themselves don’t have the right foundation to lead you. Here is what Peter, filled with the Spirit of God, said to these religious pretenders: 

“This is the Stone [Jesus Christ] which you builders have counted worthless, and He has become the Head of the Corner. And there is salvation in no other One; for there is no other name under Heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:11-12 MKJV).

We preach the One True God and Lord Jesus Christ, Whom you’re reading about on our website, if you can receive it. 

Who wrote this part of your letter – are these your words? 

Regarding election, the Bible teaches both the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man – both are true. We need not fear that someone will go to Hell because they are not elect. They will go to Hell because they have “suppressed the truth in unrighteousness” per Romans 1:18. No one will go to Hell who does not deserve to go there. Also, we can rest in the Attributes of God. God will never act in way that is contrary to His nature and His nature is that of absolute perfect righteousness and love. 

At any rate, read True Hope for Reform Church Members and All Calvin Doctrine Victims, and let us know afterwards if you have any questions. Also read The Church.

Paul and Victor