Part 18 certainly opened up channels of thought, as I expected it would, and I’m glad because it makes the way clear to give sensible and truly Biblical answers to the various problems cited.
The biggest problem was this – and on the face of it, certainly demands an answer. I have received such words as “It’s not fair!” and “There’s no point in making a choice to believe if everyone’s going to heaven.” Such comments only tend to emphasise the lack of deeper teaching throughout the evangelical churches.
Yes, the Bible has adequate testimony to the fact that there is a clear distinction between the Elect of God and the rest of the world. But having said that, what is the future destination and purpose of God’s Elect? Rather than sitting in heavenly places enjoying ourselves, we are told that we shall become God’s ambassadors to teach the world. “When thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.” (Isa.26:9) We are saved to serve. The ten references I quoted, which contained the word ALL, shows that God has a purpose for the rest of humanity, a good and saving purpose, and not “everlasting hellfire”.
We are told that the Elect of God have their names “written in heaven”. “The general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven”. (Heb.12:23) “They shall be equal to the angels.” (Luke 20:36) But the destination of the rest of humanity is the earth. “All that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters”. (Jer.17:13) But to live on a renewed earth, and have all the benefits that Adam and Eve once enjoyed is no small blessing.
The truth of this is encapsulated in the story of Joseph in the O.T. Joseph is the type of God’s Elect. His brethren represent the rest of the world. Joseph’s sufferings bespeak the sufferings of the Elect. Pharaoh is a type of the Lord who calls Joseph to a royal position after proposing to Pharaoh the plan of salvation. Henceforth Joseph saves the rest of his brethren from death, but also gives them a strong lesson in right judgment. Joseph henceforth lives amongst his brethren, but is separated from them by virtue of his royal position.
I hope these comments have opened up a new way of thinking. Please continue to write to me. I value all the letters I receive, and promise to answer promptly. Thank you, and God bless you. Arthur