“ Response to Chris' Question ” Amyraldians believed that in the decree of God election came after the need for redemption. This made redemption UNIVERSAL, but only having application towards the elect. It is a mild form of Calvinism, and somewhat Arminian. Baxter liked this position.
Here is what Meet the Puritans says, "Baxter's writings are a strange theological mix. He was one of a few Puritans whose doctrines of God's decrees, atonement, and justification were anything but Reformed. Though he generally structured his theology along reformed lines of thought, he frequently LEANED towards Arminian thinking. He developed his own notion of universal redemption, which offended Calvinists, but he retained a form of personal election, which offended Arminians. He rejected reprobation. He was greatly influenced by the Amyraldians and incorporated much of their thinking including hypothetical universalism, which teaches that Christ's death was more of a legal satisfaction of the law than a personal substitutionary death on behalf of elect sinners." (p.66)
“ Great Sermon! ” Wow! Many great points. Especially, some of the historical background in the RPCNA, and the point about our contemporary crisis of a "deaconal" state which takes from the work of the Church.
“ Great Sermon! ” Thanks for this survey, and showing such relevance for our cities today. We need to hear that in some ways the days are no different from the days of the reformation.
Also appreciated the balance on Baxter. He had is faults as we have ours, and yet God can use all of us, despite our weaknesses, frailties, and faults.
“ Great Sermon! ” Dear Rev. Eshelman,
I listened to this message with rapt attention. I was amazed by the comparison of my city of Los Angeles to that of Kidderminster from so long ago. Although we live far away from your church, I’ve been so impressed by the quality of your teaching that we hope to visit with your this Sabbath.
Lord bless you,
J. Andrew
6/30/09 7:17 PM
