Q. 61. Are all they saved who hear the gospel, and live in the church?

A.
All that hear the gospel, and live in the visible church, are not saved; but they only who are true members of the church invisible.[260]

[260]
John 12:38-40. That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.

Romans 9:6. Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel.

Matthew 22:14. For many are called, but few are chosen.

Matthew 7:21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Romans 11:7. What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded