While this is definitely an interesting exchange, it is not a very good debate. The topic was supposed to involve both sides presenting a positive exegesis of Romans 9 so that the audience could compare and decide for themselves. Professor Flowers chose to make a presentation on Total Depravity (which was the topic he had originally suggested), and then make some surface-level comments about how his position would be relevant to particular sections of Romans 9. Hence, the formal debate was basically uncontested, but the secondary debate (total depravity) was only partially contested, as James did not get to make a positive presentation on the topic. Despite this (all too common) problem, the discussion is very useful in comparing Reformed theology and exegesis with what calls itself “traditionalist” Southern Baptist views.
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Great Sermon! I see the point about Flowers not giving a full exposition of Romans 9. Although, I think a full exposition was unnecessary. He stated that for the most part they were in agreement as to the meaning and purpose of that chapter. What he then did was focus on the passages or verses that he disagreed with White's interpretation and also added to the context of the chapter (referring back to Romans 1 and following). It made sense as he only had 22 minutes.
I don't even fully agree with Flowers, but I still think he did an excellent job (especially for a beginner).
Patrick (1/9/2019)
from Canada
Sir Flowers 😇 43:30 Flowers " Calvinism flourish caus we ( Flowers side) does not preach Romans 9 ?????? Lol. 4 times I listen and I find more and more interesting. Great job Dr White
Connor7 (3/5/2018)
Hmm I agree with Francesco, Professor Flowers was very distracted, I don't think Professor Flowers knew much about Calvinism even though he claims to be a former Calvinist,
I didn't see any exegesis on his part, that was unfortunate, I have never had a "Non Calvinist" explain to me how a child of wrath can even desire to love God? How can a dead man desire life? How can a child of the devil desire to be a child of God?
I don't see how a "non Calvinist" can avoid being a universalist, if Christ died for every single person, then no one would be in Hell.
Jayson waughtel (11/14/2017)
Crash! I can’t get the debate to work past 80 mins. It crashes after that.
Francesco (1/28/2016)
from Canada
Unfortunate Its unfortunate that Flowers was so distracted redefining terms and asking questions that are not raised in the passage that he forgot to actually preach through Romans 9! Im sure if i were James White i wouldnt know what to do with that. If flowerd wants to debate calvinism why not change the contract from Romans 9 Debate to Calvinism? It forces them to two different rooms, only one being agreed upon. Flowers i dont know what your deal is, you seem so passionate and zealous gainst the plain Word of God. Why?
James White is the director of Alpha and Omega Ministries, a Christian apologetics organization based in Phoenix, Arizona. He is a professor, having taught Greek, New Testament Textual Criticism, Church history, and various topics in the field of apologetics. He has authored or...