Saved by Grace through Faith or Saved by Decree? by Geoffrey D. Robinson

Author:Geoffrey D. Robinson [Robinson, Geoffrey D.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781666728897
Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers
Published: 2022-04-08T19:51:41+00:00

Theological Issues Related to Limiting the Extent of the Atonement

Limiting the intent of the atonement in the redemptive purposes of God to only the elect raises not only biblical exegetical problems as discussed above but also serious theological problems. I shall begin by discussing the basic misconception Calvinism has regarding this aspect of salvation. Then I shall show why a limited atonement calls into question the extent of God’s love. I will go on to show how Calvinists reduce the scope of universals (whole world, all, whoever, anyone, etc.) to a restricted number, the elect.

We must also address a common Calvinist claim, namely, that the atonement actually saves and does not just make salvation possible. I shall explore why it is that Christ’s death that is universal in intent does not lead to the idea of a double payment for sins—at the cross and for the sinner in hell. Before concluding the chapter, I shall examine the validity or consistency of those who claim to be only “four-point” Calvinists as well as the attempt to find a middle ground through Amyraldism, and finally the rationale for evangelism within a Calvinistic soteriology.

a) The Basic Problem: The Failure to Distinguish between the Accomplishing of Redemption and Its Application

Calvinism does not separate the accomplishing of redemption at the cross from its application to the individual Christian. For Calvinism, the two go together, they are inextricably bound. This may be seen clearly, for example, in John Murray’s book titled Redemption Accomplished and Applied: “The doctrine of ‘limited atonement’ which we maintain is the doctrine which limits the atonement to those who are heirs of eternal life, to the elect. That limitation ensures its efficacy and conserves its essential character as efficient and effective redemption.”655 Note the unity: “efficient and effective.”656

Horton likewise connects the work of the cross inextricably to the actual salvation of the elect: “The ‘once for all’ accomplishment of Christ in his saving work at the cross leaves nothing for sinners to complete by their own actions, whether their decision or effort.”657 Here, again, the atonement is unconditionally applied to the elect only. Sproul also sees a unity between the atonement at the cross and its application: “[Salvation] is designed and ordained by the Father, accomplished by the Son, and applied by the Holy Spirit. All three persons of the Trinity are in eternal agreement on the plan of redemption and its execution.”658 The inability to separate Christ’s atoning work from its effective application to the elect is also seen in this quote from Sproul: “The atonement’s ultimate purpose is found in the ultimate purpose or will of God. This purpose or design does not include the entire human race. If it did, the entire human race would surely be redeemed.”659 For Sproul there is a watertight connection between the work of the cross and its effective application to the elect alone, an effective denial of the concept of appropriation.

A final example of the Calvinist’s inviolable linking of the death of Christ

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