Calvin believed that salvation is only possible through the grace of God. Even before creation, GOD CHOSE SOME PEOPLE TO BE SAVED. This is the bone most people choke on: NOT “WHO–SO–EVER WILL” but PREDESTINATION. In other words, SOME ARE PREDESTINED TO BE SAVED and, according to Calvin, SOME ARE NOT, IT’S NOT OUR CHOICE. Calvin stated this so forcefully that the teaching is forever identified with him. Calvin said IT WAS CLEARLY TAUGHT IN THE BIBLE.
As I was praying about this message the words “WHO–SO–EVER WILL” came to me very strongly. So, let us see what the Bible says about this. These are from the KJV so we can see the who–so–ever wills in the Bible. Matthew 16:25, “For who–so–ever will save his life shall lose it: and who–so–ever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25) Notice again, the responsibility is on us, we make the choice. You have a choice. Mark 8:34, “And when He had called the people unto Him with His disciples also, He said unto them, Who–so–ever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34)
Acts 2:21, “And it shall come to pass, that who–so–ever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Acts 2:21) Acts 10:43, “To him give all the prophets witness, that through His name who–so–ever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins.” (Acts 10:43) Romans 10:13, “For who–so–ever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13) Revelation 22 17, “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And who–so–ever will, let him take the water of life freely.” (Revelation 22:17) This is how the Bible ends. “LET HIM (who–so–ever) TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY.”
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham