I understand quite well that man does not come to God unless the Father draws him. At the same time, you ignore scriptures which unequivocally state "That God is not willing that ANY should perish but that all come to the knowledge of truth." and "You will seek me and find me when YOU seek for me with all you heart." Again, it is a give and take where God begins the process. Yes, He is the author and finisher of our faith, but we do have our place in between. It is RELATIONSHIP. Paul could have said, "No way, God" after he was knocked off his horse.
I think it's very easy for believers to say so and so was never a christian because he or she is now living a life that is so contrary to what they once claimed to believe. I disagree with a statement like that because it takes away the "free will" God gives man in sustaining his or her upright walk with Him. Does this mean I'm preaching legalism? No way. It's just that mankind has the ability to either accept God's voice or reject it when he hears it. If a believer is caught up in sin, he needs God's help to break the bondage. At the same time, it is up to the individual to repent. Again, the prodigal turned around and started back. What would of happened had he not done that?
Have you never read the parable of the sower and the seed? The seed fell everywhere. It wasn't God who prevented the seed from taking root. |
