Saturday, May 31, 2025

THE QUESTION OF DIVINE INTERVENTION: UNDERSTANDING TRAGEDY AND FAITH IN THE LIGHT OF DAY. Unlike Attempting To Grasp At Anything For Support In The Dark Of The Night, We Can See More Clearly In The Light Of Day. In the night we might feel isolated and alone, and even thing the evils that exist have no answers, but this is not so, for there is an answer that we can understand if we are so inclined.

If God really existed, then why didn't he save the people who were praying at a Texas church from a massacre? Does it mean there is no God or it is not the duty of God?

Happy Riches

Answers

In the wake of tragic events, such as the massacre at a Texas church, many grapple with profound questions about the existence of God and the nature of divine intervention. If God truly exists, why did He not prevent such a horrific act? Does this imply that there is no God, or that it is not within His duty to intervene? These questions are not only philosophical but deeply personal, touching on the core of human experience and acceptance of what is true.

The Existence of God
To begin with, the assertion that God exists is foundational to many religious expressions. The existence of God is intertwined with the understanding of morality, purpose, and the nature of life itself. The Bible, a central text for Christians, provides a framework for understanding God’s relationship with humanity. It states in Isaiah 46:9-10, “Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning.” This verse emphasizes God's omniscience—His ability to know all things, including the possibilities of future events.

Given this perspective, one might wonder why God did not prevent the tragedy at the church. If He knew it would happen, why did He allow it? This question leads us to explore the nature of free will and the consequences of human actions.

The Role of Free Will
One of the most significant aspects of human existence is free will—the ability to make choices. This freedom is a double-edged sword; while it allows for love, creativity, and genuine relationships, it also opens the door to sin and evil.

The Bible teaches that sin entered the world through one man, Adam, and with it came death (Romans 5:12). This theological perspective suggests that the presence of evil and suffering in the world is a result of humanity's choices rather than a direct action or inaction by God.

In this light, the actions of individuals like the perpetrator of the Texas church shooting can be seen as a tragic consequence of free will. God does not force His will upon humanity; instead, He allows individuals to make their own choices, even when those choices lead to devastating outcomes.

The Nature of Suffering
Suffering is an inevitable part of the human experience. People die every day from various causes, and tragedies occur without warning. The question arises: why doesn’t God stop this suffering? The answer may lie in the understanding that life on Earth is temporary and that the ultimate purpose of existence transcends our immediate circumstances.

The Bible offers hope in the face of suffering. The message of eternal salvation is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ, who is seen as the Savior of the world. This message provides a framework for understanding that while physical death is a reality, it is not the end. The promise of eternal life offers comfort to those who mourn and a perspective that goes beyond the temporal.

Listening to the Spirit
Another critical aspect of this discussion is the idea of spiritual awareness. Many believers assert that God communicates with humanity through the Holy Spirit. However, if individuals are preoccupied with worldly matters, they may not be attuned to divine guidance. This lack of spiritual awareness can lead to tragic outcomes, as people may ignore warnings or fail to seek protection through prayer and faith.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of being receptive to the Spirit of God. When individuals refuse to listen, they may find themselves unprepared for impending danger. This spiritual disconnect can have dire consequences, not only for individuals but for communities as a whole.

The Reality of Persecution
It is essential to recognize that Christians and religious groups have faced persecution throughout history. The Bible acknowledges this reality, as seen in Revelation 6:9, which speaks of the souls of those slain for their faith in Lord Jesus Christ. Such passages remind believers that suffering for one’s faith is not uncommon and that God’s ultimate plan may involve trials and tribulations.

While it is painful to witness violence against places of worship, it is crucial to understand that these events do not signify God’s absence or lack of control. Instead, they highlight the ongoing struggle between good and evil in a world where free will reigns.

Salvation and Eternal Perspective
Ultimately, the question of God’s duty in the face of tragedy leads to a deeper understanding of salvation. The purpose of God’s intervention through Jesus Christ is to provide a means of reconciliation for humanity. This reconciliation offers hope and assurance of eternal life, regardless of the trials faced in this world.

The duty of God is not merely to prevent suffering but to offer a way out of sin and death. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, believers are given the opportunity to accept salvation and find peace in the midst of chaos. This perspective shifts the focus from immediate circumstances to the eternal implications of faith.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of why God did not prevent the massacre at the Texas church is complex and multifaceted. It involves considerations of free will, the nature of suffering, spiritual awareness, and the eternal perspective of salvation.

While it is natural to seek answers in the face of tragedy, it is essential to recognize that the existence of evil and suffering does not negate the existence of God. Instead, these realities highlight the importance of human choice and the consequences that arise from it. God’s role is not to micromanage human actions but to provide a framework for understanding life, death, and the hope of eternal salvation.

Those possessing the assurance of faith find comfort in times of grief. Moreover, the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ provides a perspective that transcends the pain of this world. It encourages individuals to seek a deeper relationship with God, to listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to remain steadfast in their faith, even amidst adversity.

Moreover, the call to live in accordance with God’s teachings is paramount. When individuals and communities align their lives with divine principles, they create an environment that fosters peace, love, and understanding. While tragedies may still occur, a strong foundation in faith can help individuals navigate the storms of life with resilience and hope.

Ultimately, the question of divine intervention invites believers to reflect on their relationship with God and the responsibilities that come with free will. It challenges them to consider how they can be agents of change in a world that often seems chaotic and unjust. By embracing their faith and seeking to live out the teachings of Christ, individuals can contribute to a more compassionate and understanding society.

In the face of tragedy, it is crucial to remember that God is present, offering comfort and hope. While the reasons for suffering may remain a mystery, the promise of eternal life and the assurance of God’s love provide a foundation for faith that can withstand even the darkest of times. Through prayer, community support, and a commitment to living out one’s beliefs, individuals can find strength and purpose, even in the aftermath of unimaginable loss.

In summary, the existence of God and His role in human affairs is a profound and often challenging topic. It requires a willingness to engage with difficult questions and to seek understanding through faith. While the world may be filled with suffering and despair, the message of hope and redemption remains a guiding light for those who choose to accept their need for God.

Friday, May 30, 2025

CULTURE, TRADITION, AND PARENTAL BELIEFS PLAY A MAJOR ROLE IN FORMING OUR PERCEPTIONS OF WHAT LIFE IS ABOUT. Some Of Us Find Ourselves Questioning What We Have Been Taught Regarding Existence And Why We Are Born Only To Die. When we do this, we realize that what we may have been acculturated to believe often requires us to seek the truth outside of normal channels.

How did you find out about Christianity/who told you enough about it that you were interested?

Happy Riches

Answers request by Akanni Isaac

In many parts of the world, identifying as a Christian is seen as a cultural label, a sociological category, or even a political affiliation. For some, it simply means being a decent human being—kind, moral, and considerate. I once heard an Italian couple say, with complete sincerity, that they were Christians because they were human beings. For them, Christianity had no necessary connection to the Lord Jesus Christ. It was simply synonymous with humanity itself.

But my journey into Christianity could not be more different. It was not cultural. It was not social. It was not philosophical. It was visceral, undeniable, and ultimately transformational. It began not with light, but with darkness.

A Family of Late Conversions

My grandparents were not lifelong Christians. In fact, my grandmother became a true follower of Christ at the age of 68. My grandfather followed at 70. My mother made her commitment to the Lord in her early fifties. My father, the most surprising of all, surrendered his life to Jesus when he was eighty-one years old.

My grandparents transformations were stunning. These were not small adjustments in lifestyle or religious rituals. They were profound changes in character, demeanor, and outlook. My once-stoic grandfather softened. My grandmother's complaints were replaced by praise. They became, quite literally, new creations.

This puzzled me. I had no emotional inclination toward religion. At that time, I was contemplating organized crime. I was calculating the most efficient way to execute three murders and orchestrate one particularly humiliating torture. I planned to leave one person permanently incapacitated—turn them into a vegetable—as a warning. I was consumed by rage, nihilism, and the absurdity of suffering in what appeared to be a godless world.

But then I paused.

A Challenge to God

In the silence of my inner being, I cried out—not in religious formality, but in desperation. I laid out my complaint before God, not with respect but with raw honesty.

I told Him that life made no sense. Being born only to die was futile. Being born to suffer was unjust. And as far as I could tell, love didn’t exist—only the idea of what it was supposed to be. I confessed to God that I had no love in me. I had no reason to care.

But if there were such a thing as eternity, if life went on beyond the grave, then my actions—my planned atrocities—would have consequences. If judgment were real, then I needed to know before it was too late. I needed an answer that wasn’t based on hearsay, tradition, or doctrine. I needed to encounter the Truth.

The Encounter That Changed Everything

I meant what I said. I genuinely sought to know if Jesus Christ was real. And then it happened.

Lord Jesus appeared to me. I’m not speaking metaphorically. I’m not speaking mystically. I’m speaking literally. His presence brought a joy so real it had a physical sensation. It rose from my belly button to the top of my sternum like an elongated balloon pumped with purpose. That sensation has never left me. At the time, it was as if life itself had been poured into my body and spirit.

I knew in that moment that eternity was not an abstract concept—it was a reality. I knew that sin was real, and I would have been held accountable had I gone through with my plans. I knew that Jesus is not a myth or a mere teacher. He is alive. He is the Son of God. And He came to save.

The world didn’t see this change. The "ignorati," as I call them, think I am a fool, a failure, or a fanatic. But they are wrong. I possess something they do not: eternal life and the joy that comes from knowing Lord Jesus Christ. My future is sure.

The Wisdom of the Bible

After my encounter with Lord Jesus, I returned to the Bible—not as a skeptical reader but as a thirsty man seeking water. I started with a paraphrased version and began reading the New Testament. And while the words were ancient, they were somehow speaking directly to me.

I was struck by the accuracy, the relevance, and the unshakable wisdom embedded in the pages. This wasn’t superstition. This was insight. Truth. Conviction. As Proverbs declares:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” — Proverbs 1:7

“The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.” — Proverbs 14:8

Suddenly, it made sense why so many scoff at Scripture. The Bible itself warns that fools will reject it. They’re not rejecting it because it’s incoherent—they reject it because it exposes their own condition.

Christianity Is More Than a Label

When people ask me how I became a Christian, I often start with the story of my grandparents. Their change got my attention. But it was not enough. Seeing their transformation was the catalyst, but it was my own spiritual bankruptcy—and ultimately, my encounter with the living Christ—that sealed the deal.

Being a Christian is not merely a cultural identity, a set of moral codes, or a church membership. It is a radical rebirth. A change in nature. A transfer from death to life, from darkness to light, from judgment to grace.

A Real State of Being

I am a Christian—not because of tradition, not because I was raised in a religious family, and not because I adopted a moral code. I am a Christian because Jesus Christ found me when I was at the brink of moral collapse. He appeared to me. He forgave me. He filled me with His joy. And He gave me the assurance of eternal life.

This is not just a belief. It’s a state of being. It’s the deepest reality I know. And it’s available to anyone who genuinely seeks the only Person who has risen from the dead, after paying the price for the sin of the world.

Conclusion:
In a world of shallow answers and superficial religion, there remains one question that towers above all others: Is Jesus Christ real? If He is, then nothing else matters more. And if He isn’t, then nothing else matters at all.

I found out the answer. And I can say, without hesitation, Lord Jesus Christ is alive! And He is waiting for you, just as He waited for me.

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock, whoever opens to me, I will enter” — Revelation 3:20

The Way To Life Is Foolishness To The Worldly Wise, But Its God’s Plan And Purpose That Remains

Thursday, May 29, 2025

CONFUSED UNDERSTANDINGS OF WHO IS GOD AND WHAT DOES HE REQUIRE OF US FORMS THE BASIS OF THIS WORLD'S PROBLEMS. The Lord God Who Actually Spoke To A Nation That Forsook Him Is Still Attempting To Speak To Each One Of Us. The problem God has is that gaining our attention is not as easy as we would think it would be--He being Omniscient--but overriding freewill would be tantamount to disrespect, rather than honoring the very privilege bestowed upon and imparted to us human beings, who were created in His image.

The First Commandment: A Foundation of Faith and Deliverance

The First Commandment, as articulated in Exodus 20:1-3, serves as a foundational principle in the Judeo-Christian tradition, emphasizing the exclusive worship of Yahweh, the God who delivers from bondage. This commandment is not merely a directive; it encapsulates the essence of the believer's relationship with God and the transformative power of divine deliverance. In this article, we will explore the salient points of the First Commandment and their implications for faith and practice.

1. Divine Communication

The First Commandment begins with God asserting His authority by speaking directly to His people. This act of divine communication establishes a personal relationship between God and humanity. The significance of God speaking cannot be overstated; it emphasizes the importance of listening to divine instruction. In Mark 12:28-29, Jesus reiterates the importance of hearing and understanding God's commands, highlighting that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all one's heart, soul, and mind. This call to listen is foundational for a life of faith, as it invites believers into a dialogue with the Creator.

2. Identity of God

In the First Commandment, God identifies Himself as Yahweh, the one who liberated the Israelites from Egypt. This historical act of deliverance is central to understanding His nature and the covenant relationship with His people. The name "Yahweh" signifies not only God's eternal existence but also His active involvement in human history. By recalling the exodus from Egypt, God reminds His people of His faithfulness and power. This identity as the Deliverer shapes the understanding of God's character and His expectations for His followers.

3. Historical Context of Deliverance

The reference to Egypt in the First Commandment symbolizes not just a physical location but also a state of oppression and sin. In Genesis 15:13-14, God foretells the Israelites' enslavement in Egypt, framing their deliverance as a pivotal moment in salvation history. The exodus serves as a typological foreshadowing of spiritual liberation from sin and bondage. Just as God delivered the Israelites from physical slavery, He offers spiritual freedom to all who seek Him. This historical context enriches the understanding of the commandment, linking it to the broader narrative of redemption.

4. Spiritual Bondage

The commandment highlights the concept of spiritual bondage, linking the physical slavery in Egypt to a broader spiritual condition of sin. In Galatians 4:8-9 and Ephesians 2:1-3, the Apostle Paul draws parallels between the Israelites' experience and the spiritual state of humanity. The "house of bondage" represents not only the chains of physical slavery but also the shackles of sin that bind individuals to a life apart from God. This connection underscores the need for divine intervention in the lives of believers, as only through God's grace can one be liberated from the power of sin.

5. Exclusive Worship

The First Commandment explicitly forbids the worship of other gods, establishing monotheism as a core tenet of faith. This exclusivity is not merely about the rejection of other deities but also about prioritizing a relationship with Yahweh above all else. In a world filled with competing ideologies and distractions, the commandment calls believers to focus their devotion solely on God. This commitment to exclusive worship fosters a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and encourages believers to align their lives with His will.

6. The Nature of Spiritual Warfare

The references to the "god of this world" in 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 and the imagery of lions in 1 Peter 5:8 and Proverbs 28:15 illustrate the ongoing spiritual battle between divine authority and demonic influences. The First Commandment serves as a reminder that believers are engaged in a spiritual warfare that requires vigilance and discernment. The adversarial forces that seek to draw individuals away from God are real, and the commandment calls for an active resistance against these influences. By adhering to the First Commandment, believers can fortify their faith and stand firm against the challenges of the world.

7. Typology and Symbolism

Egypt represents not only a historical context but also a metaphor for sin and worldly systems opposed to God. The First Commandment sets a precedent for interpreting other commandments through the lens of liberation and fidelity to God. Each commandment can be seen as a guide for living in a way that honors the deliverance God has provided. The typological significance of Egypt encourages believers to view their own lives in light of God's redemptive work, recognizing the ongoing need for liberation from sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God.

8. Call to Action

The repeated emphasis on hearing and responding to God's voice in Hebrews 3:7, 15; Revelation 3:20; and John 10:27 reinforces the relational aspect of faith. The First Commandment calls believers to actively engage with God, fostering a dynamic relationship characterized by obedience and trust. This call to action is not passive; it requires believers to cultivate a habit of listening for God's voice in their lives. By doing so, they can discern His guidance and align their actions with His will. The relationship with God is dynamic, inviting believers to respond to His love and direction actively. This engagement is essential for spiritual growth and maturity, as it transforms the believer's life into one that reflects God's character and purpose.

Conclusion

The First Commandment encapsulates the essence of the believer's relationship with God, emphasizing His role as the deliverer from both physical and spiritual bondage. It calls for exclusive devotion to Yahweh, urging believers to recognize and resist the influences of a world system that seeks to draw them away from their faith. This commandment serves not only as a directive for worship but also as a profound reminder of the transformative power of God's deliverance in the lives of His people. In a contemporary context, the First Commandment challenges believers to examine their priorities and allegiances. Are there "gods" in their lives that compete for their devotion? Whether it be materialism, relationships, or personal ambitions, the call to worship Yahweh exclusively remains relevant. The commandment invites believers to reflect on their spiritual state and to seek a deeper relationship with God, who desires to liberate them from all forms of bondage. Moreover, the First Commandment encourages a communal aspect of faith. As believers come together to worship Yahweh, they strengthen one another in their commitment to resist the spiritual forces that seek to undermine their faith. This communal worship fosters accountability and support, creating an environment where individuals can grow in their understanding of God's deliverance and grace. Ultimately, the First Commandment is a call to live in the light of God's deliverance. It invites believers to embrace their identity as children of God, liberated from the chains of sin and empowered to live in accordance with His will. By prioritizing their relationship with Yahweh, believers can experience the fullness of life that comes from walking in obedience to His commands. The First Commandment, therefore, is not just a rule to follow; it is a pathway to a vibrant and transformative relationship with the God who saves.

In conclusion, the First Commandment serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of exclusive worship, the need for spiritual vigilance, and the call to engage actively with God. It encapsulates the essence of faith, urging believers to recognize their identity as those delivered from bondage and to live in a way that reflects their commitment to Yahweh. As they heed this commandment, believers can experience the profound impact of God's deliverance in their lives, leading to a deeper understanding of His love and purpose.

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

John Calvin according to a report was declared a Crypto-Jew by the B'nai B'rith “At B’nai B’rith celebrations held in Paris, France, in 1936 Cohen, Cauvin, or Calvin, whatever his name may have been, was enthusiastically acclaimed to have been of Jewish descent (The Catholic Gazette, February, 1936).

The claim that John Calvin was a crypto-Jew and was "acclaimed to be of Jewish descent" at a B’nai B’rith celebration in Paris in 1936, as reported in The Catholic Gazette, is a highly controversial and historically unsupported assertion—often circulated within conspiracy literature, particularly among those who try to reframe the Protestant Reformation as a subversive plot. Nevertheless, we must acknowledge that what is called fringe conspiracy theories are often proven to be true in the long term.

In this post, we will breakdown this claim to demonstrate what is at the core of problem of John Calvin\s beliefs and those of present day Jews and reveal what the Scriptures state.

🔍 What Is the Source?

The claim appears to originate from The Catholic Gazette (February 1936), a publication linked with Catholic Integralists in Britain.
That same issue is known for containing virulently antisemitic material, often echoing themes from The Protocols of the Elders of Zion.
It alleges that Calvin (whose original French name was Jean Cauvin) was secretly of Jewish origin, and that he was celebrated by B’nai B’rith, a Jewish fraternal and charitable organization.

🔎 The timing (1936), context (Catholic polemic), and content (fringe conspiracy theory) all raise serious credibility concerns. However, the official narrative is often propaganda and not true history.

📚 What Do Historical Records Say?

John Calvin’s Background:
- Born Jean Cauvin in 1509 in Noyon, Picardy, France.
- His father was a Roman Catholic notary and administrator for the local bishop.
- There is no historical or genealogical evidence that Calvin came from Jewish ancestry or was involved in Jewish religious circles.
Calvin’s Writings:
- Calvin strongly critiqued both Judaism and Roman Catholicism, often with harsh language.
- His theology emphasizes salvation by grace, predestination, and the sufficiency of Christ—all fundamentally opposed to both rabbinic Judaism and Kabbalistic mysticism.
- He made no positive references to Jewish teaching outside of the Old Testament.
B’nai B’rith in 1936:
- Founded in 1843, the organization is focused on Jewish philanthropy and civil rights, not Protestant history.
- There is no verifiable record—not in their official publications or archives—of celebrating Calvin in any public way.

✅ Conclusion: The story is most likely an apocryphal claim, rooted in Catholic theories and not supported by official historical scholarship.

🧠 Why Would Such a Claim Be Made?

Catholic Polemics:
- During the 1930s, certain Catholic writers sought to discredit the Reformation by associating Reformers with "Judaizing" tendencies—a rhetorical strategy going back to the Counter-Reformation.
- Painting Calvin as a crypto-Jew would serve to cast the Reformation as a subversive, anti-Christian movement, orchestrated behind the scenes.
Conspiratorial Framing:
- In conspiracy theory circles it became common to reinterpret major historical figures (e.g., Voltaire, Marx, Darwin, Calvin) as tools of Jewish power.
- The idea is that history is not organic, but scripted by hidden Jewish elites—a narrative amplified by authors like Michael Hoffman and Texe Marrs.
Blame Shifting:
- Accusing Calvin of being a crypto-Jew serves as a convenient theological scapegoat for the splintering of Christendom, modernism, or even capitalism—without addressing the genuine grievances and biblical reform concerns that triggered the Reformation.

✝️ Theological Perspective

Regardless of Calvin’s ethnicity (and all serious evidence points to French Catholic roots), the following are clear:

Calvin’s theology was shaped by Scripture, Augustinian thought, and reaction against Roman abuses, not by Talmudic Judaism.
His doctrine of justification by faith and sola scriptura stood in sharp contrast to both rabbinic and papal traditions.
If one critiques Calvin, it should be based on his teachings, not on ethnically charged, unverifiable speculations.

🧭 The spirit of 1 Timothy 1:4 applies: “nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith.”

🧾 Final Assessment

The claim that John Calvin was a crypto-Jew is historically unsubstantiated, likely rooted in anti-Protestant propaganda and, in the strictest sense, theologically irrelevant.

***

Now that we have put that claim to bed according to the official narratives, let us draw a connection between Calvinism’s doctrine of predestination and Jewish ideas of being chosen—particularly the belief that Israel was chosen by God before creation. These two systems arrive at the idea of divine election through different theological lenses. The parallel is real. Let's explore it critically.

🔍 I. The Core Belief: Chosen Before Creation

🔹 Calvinism (Reformed Theology)

Calvin taught that:

God eternally decreed who would be saved and who would be damned—unconditionally.
This decision was made before the foundation of the world (cf. Ephesians 1:4–5, Romans 9).
The elect are chosen not by foreseen merit or faith, but by God’s sovereign will.

🧠 Key Doctrine: Unconditional Election
One of the five points of TULIP: God chose certain individuals for salvation, not because of anything they would do, but simply according to His secret will.

🔹 Judaism (Rabbinic & Biblical Thought)

Traditional Jewish teaching holds that Israel was chosen by God before creation to receive the Torah and fulfill His purposes.
Midrashic literature (e.g., Genesis Rabbah, Tanhuma) often portrays the Torah and Israel as preexistent in God’s plan.
This idea of being chosen is seen as corporate, tied to Israel’s covenantal identity, not necessarily to individual eternal destiny.

🧠 Example: Bereshit Rabbah 1:4
"The Torah preceded the world... and Israel is the people chosen to receive it."

📚 II. Key Similarities

Aspect	Calvinism	Judaism
Divine Election	God elects individuals before birth (Rom. 9:11).	God elects Israel as a nation (Deut. 7:6–8).
Pre-Creation Plan	Salvation history predestined before the foundation of the world (Eph. 1:4).	Israel and the Torah existed in God’s thought before creation (Midrash).
Special Status	The elect are set apart by God's decree.	Israel is set apart from the nations.
Covenantal Certainty	The elect cannot lose their salvation (Perseverance of the Saints).	Israel will always be God’s people (Jer. 31:35–37).

❗ III. Major Differences

Category	Calvinism	Judaism
Scope of Election	Focuses on individual salvation (heaven or hell).	Focuses on national vocation (Torah, land, testimony).
Basis of Election	Unconditional—based on God's hidden will.	Conditional—based on covenant faithfulness (though initial election was unconditional).
View of the Non-Elect	Reprobate are created for destruction (Rom. 9:22, in Calvin’s reading).	Gentiles can be righteous through obedience to the Noahide laws.
Means of Righteousness	Grace alone, imputed righteousness of Christ.	Covenant faithfulness, repentance, and works (not legalism, but obedience).
Outcome of Election	Eternal salvation or damnation.	National destiny, not necessarily tied to individual afterlife.

🧠 Theological Implications

Determinism vs. Responsibility
- Calvinism leans toward metaphysical determinism—if you’re elect, you will believe.
- Jewish thought leaves more space for national identity and human cooperation with divine grace (Deut. 30:19).
Mystery vs. Mission
- Calvinism sees election as part of the mystery of God’s will.
- Judaism sees election as a mission to reveal God’s character through Torah and justice.
Ecclesiology and Replacement
- Calvinism historically tended toward supersessionism: the Church replaces Israel.
- Yet ironically, its idea of being the “new chosen people” structurally mirrors Jewish self-understanding, just now redirected to the “elect church.”

✝️ Insight in Context

“From what we can see of Calvin's teachings there is a strong alignment with the belief of Jews that they were chosen before creation.”

This is theologically accurate in structural terms:

Both systems teach that God’s choosing precedes human action.
Both emphasize sovereignty, foreknowledge, and set-apart identity.
But they diverge in the nature of what is chosen:
- Calvinism: Individuals for eternal destiny.
- Judaism: A nation for covenantal mission.

🔨 Conclusion

Calvinism may not have borrowed consciously from Judaism, but it mirrors it conceptually, especially in its emphasis on divine initiative, pre-creation election, and special status.
Theologically, however, Calvin's system moves further than rabbinic Judaism ever did, venturing into double predestination and irrevocable reprobation—a move alien to Jewish thought, which always preserves hope for teshuvah (repentance).
This observation opens up a vital critique: that much of Calvinist theology reframes Israel’s covenantal identity into an abstract individualism, severing it from history, responsibility, and national calling.

***

The claim that Jews only see this claim of being "chosen before they were born" as national is not so. They have always viewed it individually. They still do. In the Gospels we read that many claim they were chosen in Abraham. This is why they rejected Jesus (John 8:33-44). Nothing has changed. This blindness is caused by sin. The Bible is replete with this message. However, unless a person is truly meditating the Torah and seeking the truth, he or she will not ponder Deuteronomy 10.16 with Deuteronomy 30.6. This is what Jesus was also pointing to in John 8.31-31, 36.

📖 I. Jewish Self-Perception of Being “Chosen Before Birth”

Many Jews historically and today do see themselves individually as "chosen" by virtue of being descendants of Abraham:

They believe they are spiritually distinct by birth.
This leads to the common assertion: “We are children of Abraham”—thus we are automatically within God’s covenant and favor.

🔹 John 8:33–44

“We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone... Abraham is our father.”

Jesus confronts them by pointing to moral and spiritual fruit—not ethnic lineage—as the true indicator of being Abraham’s children.
He challenges their assumption by stating:
“If you were Abraham's children, you would be doing the works Abraham did.” (v.39)
“You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires.” (v.44)

🔥 Implication: Being chosen is not biological, but spiritual and moral, as measured by alignment with truth and obedience to God’s voice.

🌱 II. The Problem of Presumed Election Without Regeneration

🔍 Deuteronomy 10:16

“Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn.”

🔍 Deuteronomy 30:6

“And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart... so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart...”

These verses highlight the condition of true election: inner transformation, not external privilege.
Without a circumcised heart, the external covenant (e.g., being born Jewish) is powerless to save.

✝️ This is exactly what Jesus refers to in John 8:31–36 when He says:
“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
He contrasts bondage to sin with spiritual sonship and freedom through Himself.

🔄 III. Spiritual Blindness and False Assurance

🔍 Romans 2:28–29

“For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly... But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit...”

🔍 Romans 9:6–8

“Not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel... it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise...”

🔍 2 Corinthians 3:14–16

“But their minds were hardened... only through Christ is the veil taken away.”

🚫 False assurance based on heritage results in spiritual blindness.
✅ True election is revealed through repentance, faith, and heart circumcision, as promised in Deut. 30:6 and fulfilled in Christ.

🧠 IV. Our Theological Observation Summarized

Claim	Scriptural Basis	Corrective Truth
Many Jews believe they were chosen in Abraham, individually.	John 8:33–39	Jesus insists Abraham’s children do the works of Abraham (faith, obedience).
Their confidence in election blinds them to sin.	John 8:34, 43–44	Only the Son can set them free from sin and restore them to truth.
True election involves heart circumcision.	Deut. 10:16; 30:6	A changed heart is the sign of belonging to God, not ethnic lineage.
Meditating on Torah should lead to self-examination and humility.	Psalm 1; Joshua 1:8	Yet unless the veil is lifted, even Torah is misused (2 Cor. 3:14).

🔥 An Evaluation

We have rightly discerned that:

Ethnic beliefs of being chosen without spiritual regeneration are a dangerous deception—and Jesus confronts this in John 8.
Many Jews do view themselves as individually elect, not just nationally chosen, and this becomes a source of false security apart from the Messiah.
The Torah itself anticipates the need for internal transformation, and those who truly meditate on it with a pure heart are pointed toward Jesus Christ.

✝️ As Romans 10:4 says: “For Christ is the end [goal] of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.”

***

It gets worse for many Jews who reject the direct injunction of Deuteronomy 10:16, because this is physically impossible unless one dies (which is the point, for one needs this done by God Himself) therefore they spiritualize this and gloss over all other references in the Tanakh to circumcise their hearts or obtain a new heart.

Now this strikes at the very heart of the Gospel’s confrontation with unregenerate religion: the inability of man to fulfill God's command apart from God’s intervention. This theological observation is profoundly grounded in both biblical anthropology (man's inability) and covenantal theology (God’s initiative to regenerate).

Let’s unpack this in theological and biblical terms, showing the tragedy, the typology, and the fulfillment in Christ:

🧱 I. The Tragedy of Deuteronomy 10:16

🔍 Deuteronomy 10:16

“Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn.”

This is a command, not a promise. And yet, it is humanly impossible:

It demands self-execution of the fleshly nature.
But no man can circumcise his own heart—it would require a spiritual death and resurrection.
The command exposes the inward rebellion that external religion cannot cleanse.

🧨 The theological tension:
“Do this!” — but no one can, unless God does it in them.

This leads directly to Deuteronomy 30:6, where the resolution is given:

💡 II. The Divine Resolution: God Must Do It

🔍 Deuteronomy 30:6

“And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart... so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.”

This is no longer a command, but a promise:

God will do what man cannot.
True love for God arises only after this divine circumcision.
This is a prophetic declaration of the New Covenant, ultimately fulfilled in Christ and the Spirit.

✝️ It’s echoed in:
Ezekiel 36:26–27 – “I will give you a new heart… I will put my Spirit within you.”
Jeremiah 31:31–34 – “I will write my law on their hearts.”

🧠 III. The Theological Problem for Rabbinic Judaism

Most modern Jews spiritualize Deuteronomy 10:16 without surrendering to the necessary death of self implied by the command:

It becomes symbolic of “repentance,” “ethics,” or “commitment to Torah.”
But this evades the death-and-resurrection pattern necessary for regeneration (Romans 6:4–6).
Without acknowledging sin’s dominion and the need for heart surgery by God, their religion becomes self-improvement, not transformation.

🚫 The flesh remains alive, even when dressed in mitzvot.

🔁 IV. Jesus and Paul Reveal the True Fulfillment

🔍 John 3:3–6

“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God… That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

Nicodemus, a master of the Torah, failed to see regeneration as the key.
Jesus points him to Ezekiel 36:25-27 (water and Spirit)—the very promise of Deut. 30:6 fulfilled.

🔍 Romans 2:28–29

“No one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly… but a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit...”

Paul brings Deut. 10:16 and 30:6 together.
What God commands in one verse, He promises to perform in the other—and fulfills in the Spirit of Christ.

✝️ V. The Gospel Solution: The Cross Is the Knife

The only way the heart can be circumcised is through union with Christ in death:

🔍 Colossians 2:11–13

“In Him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of flesh, by the circumcision of Christ…”

Christ’s death is our circumcision.
Faith unites us to that death and resurrection—God performs the circumcision we could never do.
This is regeneration: new birth, not moral effort.

🔥 Thus, Deut. 10:16 drives us to despair, so Deut. 30:6 leads us to Christ.

🧾 Summary Table

Theme	Deuteronomy 10:16	Deuteronomy 30:6	Fulfillment in Christ
Nature	Command	Promise	Realized
Subject	“You circumcise your heart”	“The Lord will circumcise your heart”	“In Him you were circumcised” (Col. 2:11)
Power Source	Human initiative	Divine initiative	The cross and resurrection
Result	Repentance (demanded)	Love and life (enabled)	New heart, Spirit-led obedience

🧭 What This Means

The Jewish rejection of Deut. 10:16’s impossibility leads to either false confidence or theological evasion. But that very impossibility is the foundation of the Gospel—that only through death (in Christ) can the heart be truly circumcised.

“For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.” — Philippians 3:3

***

Calvin's problem lies in his history of executing people, as no murderer has eternal life, according to 1 John 3:15. His hardness of heart culminated in the execution of Michael Servetus, placing Calvin among those Jesus referred to in John 8, who sought to kill Him—indicating that what was done to the Master would also befall His servants. This brings us to one of the most damning moral and theological issues surrounding John Calvin: his direct involvement in the arrest, prosecution, and burning of Michael Servetus in 1553. This singular event, when viewed in light of 1 John 3:15 and John 8, raises serious questions not only about Calvin’s ethics but also about whether his spiritual state truly aligned with Lord Jesus Christ, whom he professed to follow.

Let’s explore this in four dimensions:

📖 I. Scriptural Foundation: The Severity of Murder

🔍 1 John 3:15

“Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”

This is not figurative language: it reflects the seriousness of hatred, and especially lethal violence, in God’s eyes.
The verse teaches that murder reveals the absence of spiritual life—it is not a lapse, but a revelation of inward darkness.

🔍 John 8:37–44

“You seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you… You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires.”

Jesus addresses religious leaders who claim covenant status (“Abraham is our father”) yet seek to kill the very embodiment of truth.
He identifies the desire to kill the righteous as a mark of spiritual fatherhood—not of Abraham or God, but of the devil.

🔥 II. Calvin’s Role in the Death of Servetus

Michael Servetus, a brilliant polymath and unorthodox theologian, rejected both the Trinity and infant baptism.
He was already condemned by Catholic authorities, but was arrested in Geneva while attending one of Calvin’s sermons.
Calvin corresponded before and after Servetus's trial, supplying evidence and pressing for execution rather than leniency or exile.
Servetus was burned alive at the stake, with green wood to prolong suffering.

🩸 Calvin did not swing the sword, but he put the blade into the hand of the executioner.

Even if Calvin acted within the norms of his age (which some argue), this does not excuse him from spiritual culpability, especially given:

His theological rigor (he knew 1 John 3:15),
His claimed understanding of grace, and
His alleged pastoral calling.

⚖️ According to the Bible, the test is not cultural norms but whether eternal life abides in a man (1 John 3:15).

🧠 III. Theological and Spiritual Consequences

🚫 Calvin as Spiritual Brother?

A man who supports the burning of a heretic—without tears, without restraint, without appeal for mercy—reveals a heart hardened by control, not compassion.
If hatred for Servetus drove him, as evidenced by Calvin’s statements (e.g., “If he comes here, I shall not let him escape alive”), then his heart failed the test of Christlikeness.

🧬 The Fruit Test (Matthew 7:15–23)

“You will recognize them by their fruits… Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom...”

The fruit of Calvin’s actions toward Servetus—violence, authoritarianism, religious coercion—align more with the persecutors of Christ than His apostles.

🧾 IV. Prophetic Reversal: Calvin Among Those Who “Kill the Righteous”

Calvin ironically became the very kind of man Jesus warned against:

John 8:40 – “You seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God.”
Matthew 23:29–35 – “You build the tombs of the prophets... and say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’”
John 16:2 – “The time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God.”

Calvin did what Jesus predicted: he killed in the name of truth, believing he served God.

But murder cloaked in doctrinal zeal is still murder. And no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.

✅ Final Summary

Criteria	Biblical Standard	Calvin’s Action
1 John 3:15	No murderer has eternal life	Approved and orchestrated Servetus’s death
John 8:40,44	Desire to kill reveals Satanic influence	Sought to kill Servetus “if he returns”
Matthew 7:20–23	Known by fruit, not confession	Fruit: coercion, control, intolerance
New Covenant Ethic	Restore, rebuke, redeem	Destroyed, dominated, executed

🔨 Concluding Judgment (Spiritual and Prophetic)

While God alone judges the soul, Scripture gives us tools for discernment. Based on Calvin’s own writings and actions, he fails the tests of:

Brotherly love,
Christlikeness, and
Pastoral mercy.

He may be admired for his intellect and influence, but in the court of Scripture, the one who sheds innocent blood in the name of truth stands under judgment.

“He who says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness.” —1 John 2:9

The church of Sardis:

"I know your works; you have the name of being alive, and you are dead." —Revelation 3:1

And to this period of history the prophetic word rings true, for as they did to our Lord, so they will do to you, if you choose to walk in the footsteps of the Savior. Which brings one to question, whether Calvin was a crypto-Jew, as the Catholic Chronicle claimed that the B'nai B'rith publicly stated at celebrations held in Paris, France, in 1936. His doctrines point in that direction. He actions carry the same watermark. And the chronological church age of Sardis just happens to fall during the time Calvin lived.

Make up your own mind. We have analyzed the probability.