Quick Take:
QUICK TAKE: Why does God choose to hate so many image-bearers?
According to Calvinism, God does not hate people because they are less valuable or because they are not made in His image. Instead, Calvinists believe God chooses to save some people by His mercy while passing over others, leaving them in their sinful condition. Because all people are sinners, they believe God is not obligated to save anyone, but His choice to save some displays His grace.
Is it an accurate picture of Calvinism?
Full Analysis:
This illustration is meant to accurately represent the Calvinist understanding of God’s election. It is not saying Calvinists believe people are worthless or that they enjoy the idea of people being judged. Instead, it represents the belief that God has chosen some people for salvation while leaving others in their sinful condition. The difference between the two groups is not found in something better about one person, but in God’s sovereign choice.
Total Depravity. Calvinists believe that because of Adam’s sin, every person is born with a sinful nature and is unable to turn to God on their own. They often point to Romans 3:10–11: “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.” Because everyone is guilty, Calvinists believe God would be right to judge all people.
Unconditional Election. Calvinists believe God’s choice to save someone is not based on anything they do or anything God sees in them. It is based only on His will and purpose. Ephesians 1:4–5 is often used to support this view: “He chose us in him before the foundation of the world… he predestined us for adoption.” In this view, the difference between the two groups comes from God’s choice.
Limited Atonement and Irresistible Grace. Calvinists believe Christ’s death was intended to save the elect, and that God gives His chosen people a special grace that brings them to faith. Jesus says in John 6:37, “All that the Father gives me will come to me.” Calvinists understand this as showing that God’s saving purpose cannot fail.
But what if this picture wasn’t accurate? Scripture teaches that God loves the world and calls people to come to Him. The Bible does not describe God as taking pleasure in the death of the wicked. Psalm 145:9 says, “The LORD is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.” When Scripture speaks of God’s hatred, it often describes His hatred of sin and rebellion, especially toward those who continue to reject Him (Psalm 5:5). God has given His Word, His creation, and His truth as light so people can see His goodness and respond to Him. The question this illustration raises is how God’s love for the world fits with a view where He chooses to save some and not others.