Training and Resources

• A Journey in Grace, Richard Belcher
   
• By His Grace and For His Glory, Tom Nettles
   
• Southern Baptists and the Doctrine of Election, Robert Selph
   
• Southern Baptist Sermons on Sovereignty and Responsibility, Tom Nettles
   
• The Forgotten Spurgeon, Iain Murray
   
• Spurgeon Against Hyper-Calvinism, Iain Murray
   
• Amazing Grace, Timothy George
   
• Still Sovereign, Schreiner/Ware
   
• Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility, D.A. Carson
   
• The Sovereignty of God, A.W. Pink
   
• Chosen by God, R.C. Sproul
   
• The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination, Loraine Boettner
   
• The Cause of God and Truth, John Gill
   
• The Justification of God, John Piper
   
• Bondage of the Will, Martin Luther
   
• Freedom of the Will, Jonathan Edwards

The doctrine of God's sovereignty in salvation stands as a cornerstone of Reformed theology, asserting that God exercises supreme authority over all creation, including the redemption of humankind. This teaching is not only a theological assertion but a profound comfort to believers, assuring them that their salvation rests securely in the hands of an all-powerful and loving God. The works of Richard Belcher, Tom Nettles, and other theologians illuminate this truth, presenting a God who is intimately involved in the salvation process from beginning to end.

In "A Journey in Grace," Richard Belcher narrates a pastor’s journey toward understanding the doctrines of grace, revealing how God's sovereignty transforms our perception of His redemptive plan. Tom Nettles, in "By His Grace and For His Glory," explores how Southern Baptists have historically embraced this doctrine, arguing that God’s sovereign election is foundational to understanding His grace. These works, along with the teachings of Spurgeon, Edwards, and others, echo the biblical testimony that salvation is a divine initiative, rooted in God's eternal purposes and executed by His power.

Scriptural passages such as Romans 8:29-30 "For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son...; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified," highlight God's comprehensive role in salvation. This chain of redemption underscores that from eternity past to eternity future, God remains sovereign, ensuring that His will is accomplished.

Throughout history, theologians like Martin Luther in "Bondage of the Will" and Jonathan Edwards in "Freedom of the Will" have grappled with the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, ultimately affirming that human freedom operates within the framework of God's sovereign plan. In "The Sovereignty of God," A.W. Pink asserts that God's will is irresistible and effectual, drawing sinners to Himself in a manner consistent with His character and purposes.

As we explore the sovereignty of God in salvation, we are drawn into a deeper understanding of His majesty, grace, and love. This doctrine not only magnifies God’s glory but also offers profound assurance to believers, knowing that their salvation is secure in the hands of a sovereign and faithful God.

Salvation is a Divine Inititative

The doctrine that emphasizes God's supreme authority and control over the process of salvation is known as the Doctrine of Election or the Doctrine of Predestination.  

In Reformed theology, this doctrine asserts that God, in His sovereignty, chooses certain individuals for salvation according to His will and purpose, independent of any foreseen merit or decision on their part. Here are a few key aspects of this doctrine:

Unconditional Election: God’s choice of certain individuals for salvation is not based on any conditions they meet or actions they perform, but solely on His grace and purpose. (Ephesians 1:4-5; Romans 9:11-13)

Predestination: God has foreordained all events, including the eternal destiny of every human being. Predestination often encompasses both election to salvation and reprobation, which is the passing over of others, leaving them to their just condemnation. (Romans 8:29-30; Ephesians 1:11)

Irresistible Grace: Those whom God has elected will inevitably come to faith because God’s grace is effective and cannot be resisted when He wills to save someone. (John 6:37, 44; Acts 16:14)

Perseverance of the Saints: Those whom God has elected and brought to faith will persevere in faith and will not ultimately fall away, as their salvation is secured by God’s sovereign will. (John 10:28-29; Philippians 1:6)

This doctrine is closely associated with Calvinism and Reformed theology, as articulated by theologians like John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, and more contemporary scholars such as R.C. Sproul and John Piper. It is contrasted with Arminian views, which emphasize human free will in the acceptance of salvation.

The Story of Esau and Jacob

The story of Esau and Jacob has been the subject of much theological discussion and debate, particularly regarding Esau's spiritual state and whether or not he was ultimately saved. While the Bible does not explicitly state Esau's eternal destiny, various theologians and scholars have offered interpretations and insights into the possibility of Esau's salvation.

Here are some notable writers and theologians who have explored the topic of Esau and his potential salvation:

1. John Calvin

Interpretation of Romans 9:13: John Calvin, a prominent Reformed theologian, addressed the story of Jacob and Esau in his commentary on Romans. Calvin interpreted the statement "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated" (Romans 9:13) as referring to God's sovereign election and not necessarily Esau’s eternal damnation. He viewed the passage as illustrating God's sovereign choice rather than an absolute decree of reprobation for Esau.

Calvin’s View on Esau’s Life: Calvin recognized that Esau did receive temporal blessings from God, indicating that God’s favor was not entirely withdrawn from him. However, Calvin ultimately leaves the question of Esau's eternal state open, focusing instead on the broader theological implications of election.

2. Matthew Henry

Commentary on Genesis: Matthew Henry, a well-known Bible commentator, provided insights into Esau’s character and actions in his commentary on Genesis. Henry acknowledged Esau’s shortcomings and his disregard for spiritual matters, as demonstrated by selling his birthright. However, he also noted that Esau and Jacob eventually reconciled, suggesting that there might have been some degree of spiritual awakening or change in Esau.

Reconciliation with Jacob: Henry emphasizes the significance of the reconciliation between Esau and Jacob in Genesis 33, indicating that Esau’s forgiveness and amicable encounter with Jacob might reflect a softened heart and a possible turn towards repentance.

3. Charles Spurgeon

Sermons and Writings: Charles Spurgeon, a renowned Baptist preacher, addressed the story of Esau in several of his sermons. Spurgeon often highlighted the spiritual lessons from Esau’s life, warning against neglecting spiritual privileges and pursuing worldly desires. While Spurgeon acknowledged Esau's lack of spiritual discernment, he also left room for the possibility of Esau's eventual repentance.

Hope for Repentance: Spurgeon emphasized God's mercy and grace, suggesting that even those who have strayed, like Esau, have the opportunity for repentance and redemption. Spurgeon did not definitively state Esau's salvation but encouraged reflection on God’s willingness to forgive.

4. John Gill

Exposition of the Old and New Testaments: John Gill, a Reformed theologian known for his extensive biblical commentary, explored the story of Esau in his writings. Gill highlighted the distinction between temporal and eternal blessings, noting that Esau was blessed with material prosperity and temporal favors despite being passed over for the covenant blessings.

Gill’s Perspective on Esau’s Salvation: While Gill acknowledged the complexities of Esau’s spiritual state, he did not definitively declare Esau’s eternal destiny. Instead, Gill focused on the broader themes of God’s sovereignty and the importance of valuing spiritual over temporal blessings.

5. Contemporary Theologians and Writers

Various Interpretations: Contemporary theologians and scholars continue to explore the story of Esau, offering diverse perspectives on his spiritual state. Some argue that Esau’s reconciliation with Jacob and his subsequent blessings suggest a change of heart, while others maintain that Esau’s earlier actions reflect a persistent disregard for spiritual matters.

Theological Debates: The discussion of Esau's salvation often intersects with debates on the nature of election, reprobation, and the possibility of repentance. Some theologians emphasize God’s grace and the potential for Esau’s salvation, while others highlight the warnings against neglecting spiritual inheritance.

Conclusion

Esau’s decision to give up his birthright is a crucial aspect of understanding his spiritual condition. In Genesis 25:29-34, Esau despised his birthright, exchanging it for a mere meal, showing a lack of regard for the promises of God. This act demonstrated not just a physical hunger but a spiritual apathy that had eternal consequences. Hebrews 12:16-17 highlights Esau's immorality and godlessness, stating that he found no place for repentance, though he sought it with tears.

While the question of Esau’s eternal salvation remains open to debate to some, this act of despising his birthright underscores the gravity of rejecting God's promises. It shows the tension between human responsibility in disregarding spiritual matters and God's sovereign plan, as Romans 9:13 states, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated” (NASB 1995). This points to the deep and complex interaction of divine sovereignty and human decisions.

Ultimately, the story of Esau serves as a reminder of the importance of valuing spiritual inheritance and the possibility of reconciliation and repentance. It encourages believers to trust in God’s grace and mercy, recognizing that salvation is ultimately determined by God’s sovereign will.