I don't have time to read through this very old thread/discussion, so my reply is probably a repeat of what has already been voiced. grin

I basically agree with your description of "common grace", but my opposition is of the term itself; "common grace". Why? Because when I read Scripture, "grace" is not "common" but specifically grace is always salvific in nature. To whom God shows grace, the individual is infallibly saved. Again, what I read in Scripture is that God is "benevolent" universally to sinners in myriad ways, all of which are either to lead one to repentance (Rom 2:4) or in the case of the elect, to sanctify them and evoke true worship toward Him. And lastly, as you intimate, and I simply describe in different terms, the providence of God which directs all things, also has a restraining aspect to it in that He prevents the wickedness of men from destroying Christ's church.

Lastly, welcome to The Highway Discussion Board. And, I hope you will take advantage of the plethora of articles, books and sermons what are found on The Highway website.


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simul iustus et peccator

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