Question: .

My question is whether God chooses us or if we choose God. I'm not too good with Bible verses but I know there are a few that state that God chooses us. Jesus said, "No one can come to me unless the Father draws him to me." So are we lost without hope of our own? What's the use of talking to people about God if there is nothing we can do? I would appreciate any help you can send me. Thanks in advance.

God Bless.

-Marie

Answer:

Hello Marie,

You have asked about one of the most controversial teachings within Christianity. The Bible clearly speaks about predestination - that God has chosen and called us. However, the Bible is not so clear (at least most Christians believe it is not so clear) about how he has done this, or how he does it.

Most Christians believe that God has chosen us on the basis of his foreknowledge - that is, he is God and knows the end from the beginning. He exists outside of time, and knows the future. Therefore, God chooses those he knows will choose him. According to this view, there is "a use" in talking to others, and there is "a use" in seeking God.

On the other hand, some Christians argue that the final decision about salvation belongs with God, and not with humans. Therefore, they reason, God's decision to choose and call us is sovereign, over all, and beyond any and all of our human decisions and choices. According to this view, our choices may seem like independent choices to us, but they are in fact subject to the higher and sovereign will of God, and our decisions and actions flow from his pre-ordained will.

This teaching should not cause Christians to divide, it should not cause Christians to worry, and it should not frustrate us. We all agree that we will know all things when he glorifies us. "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:1-2).

In Christ's service,

Greg Albrecht