If I may respond.
What God is looking for in mankind is "relationship". There are many scriptures that support a `give and take' scenario. If WE confess our sins, then HE is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse. 1 John 1:9. But as many as RECEIVED him, to them gave HE power to become the sons of God..." John 1:12.
Undoubtedly, God is continually the one that initiates all of this. When a christian sins, it is the Holy Spirit that convicts with the desire to bring one back to Him. In the case of the Prodigal, the Father was always looking even before the son returned.
Before one is "saved", it is still God who begins the drawing: meaning He brings us to the point of repentance. Still, we do have a role and it is not automatic. If I do not repent when drawn, then I remain in active rebellion. I'll leave the debate of whether or not a christian can lose his salvation to someone else.
Bottomline, there is no "relationship" IF I do what I am only predestined to do. We do have a role. We must respond when drawn. The bible clearly says that God so loved the world (not just those predestined to accept Christ). He is not willing that ANY should perish. Still, we do have a free will in that we don't have to respond to His drawing.
The prodigal son turned around and then started back towards his father. Those not in Christ must be willing in their own words to ask God for forgiveness and understanding. He will not disappoint. But like in any true relationship or potential relationship God will not force his will on anyone. This is where predestination greatly errs. |
