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FAQs

GOD SEEKS RESTORATION

What do you mean by the idea that God seeks relationship and restoration?

The idea that God seeks relationship and restoration means that God’s actions toward humanity are consistently aimed at bringing people into a real, knowing relationship with Him, not merely placing them under His authority or securing outward compliance. Scripture presents God as complete in Himself and lacking nothing (Acts 17:24–25), yet choosing to create and redeem in a way that invites personal response.

From the beginning, humans are made in God’s image for fellowship with Him (Genesis 1:26–27). When that relationship is broken by sin, God moves toward restoration rather than abandonment, calling out to humanity even in rebellion (Genesis 3:9). Throughout the Old Testament, God enters covenants so that He may dwell with His people and be known by them (Exodus 6:7; Leviticus 26:12), and He repeatedly calls them to return, not simply to submit, but to live (Ezekiel 18:31–32; Hosea 11:1–4).

In the New Testament, this purpose becomes even clearer. Jesus defines eternal life not first as escape from judgment, but as knowing God (John 17:3). Salvation is described as reconciliation rather than mere acquittal, emphasizing restored relationship (2 Corinthians 5:18–20). God desires people to seek Him and find Him, because He is not far from any one of us (Acts 17:27).

God’s authority is real and unquestioned, yet Scripture consistently shows that His authority is exercised toward relationship. His commands are framed as invitations into love and life, not mechanisms of control (Deuteronomy 10:12–15; Matthew 11:28–30). In this sense, restoration is not only rescue from judgment, but the reestablishment of the relationship God intended from the beginning.

Why do you use illustrations when discussing Calvinism?

Illustrations help make complex theological systems visible. Calvinism is often discussed in abstract terms, and illustrations allow people to see how its ideas work together and what they imply when applied. The goal is not to mock, but to clarify. Scripture itself frequently uses illustrations to reveal truth and invite reflection, especially when ideas are difficult or easily misunderstood. Jesus regularly taught this way to expose assumptions and bring hidden implications into the open (Matthew 13:34–35; Luke 14:28–33). Illustrations can help people examine whether a system aligns with the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27).

Do you believe Calvinists are saved?

Absolutely! Salvation is found in Christ, not in having flawless theology. Many Calvinists genuinely trust in Jesus for salvation, and Scripture is clear that salvation rests on faith in Christ, not perfect doctrinal alignment (John 3:16; Romans 10:9–10). A believer can hold theological views that are incomplete or in tension with other biblical teachings and still belong to Christ. This site critiques ideas, not the salvation of individuals, remembering that the Lord knows those who are His (2 Timothy 2:19).

Have you served with Calvinists in ministry?

Yes, for many years! Many Calvinists love Scripture, serve faithfully, and desire to honor Christ in their lives and ministries. There is real shared ground in devotion to Christ, the authority of Scripture, and the call to make disciples (Matthew 28:19–20). Scripture encourages believers to recognize genuine faith and partnership in the gospel even when disagreements exist (Philippians 1:15–18; Romans 14:1). These discussions grow out of shared life and ministry, not distance or hostility.

Isn’t this kind of discussion stoking division in the body of Christ?

Division comes from pride, hostility, and refusal to listen, not from careful examination of doctrine. Scripture itself models serious theological disagreement because truth matters and shapes how we understand God and His ways (Galatians 2:11–14; Acts 15:1–11). Believers are called to speak the truth in love and to test teachings rather than avoid difficult questions (Ephesians 4:15; 1 Thessalonians 5:21). Thoughtful discussion, done humbly, can serve unity by encouraging clarity and faithfulness to Scripture.

Is this site only about Calvinism?

No. Calvinism is addressed because it raises important questions about God’s love, human responsibility, and the nature of salvation. But the broader focus is on God’s heart to restore people to Himself and to one another, and on the conviction that no image-bearer should be treated as expendable. Scripture consistently presents God as desiring relationship, repentance, and life for people rather than exclusion or destruction (Ezekiel 18:23; 2 Peter 3:9). Calvinism is discussed where it touches those concerns, as part of a larger effort to reflect the character of God revealed in Christ (John 1:14; Colossians 1:19–20).

What is the harm in believing in Calvinism?

The way we understand God’s character shapes our own hearts and attitudes over time. People tend to become like the God they worship. When God is understood as one who genuinely desires none to perish and who extends mercy to all who believe, that vision naturally encourages humility, patience, and compassion toward others. When God is understood as one who prepares some image bearers for destruction apart from any possible response, that vision can quietly harden the heart, even when the intent is to defend God’s sovereignty. This helps explain why the stereotype of the angry Calvinist exists. Theology does not remain abstract. It forms instincts, tone, and posture toward other people, especially those seen as outside the circle of salvation.