Arminians believe that Christ died for everyone in a universal sense, making salvation possible for all but actual only for those who exercise faith in Christ. They argue that Christ’s atonement provides the means by which God can offer salvation to all, but this salvation is contingent upon the individual’s free will response.
In this view, people end up in hell because they reject the gift of salvation, failing to place their faith in Christ. The effectiveness of the atonement is therefore limited by human decision.
The Problem with the Arminian View
This perspective raises theological challenges, particularly regarding the sufficiency and intent of Christ’s atonement:
Atonement’s Efficacy
If Christ died for all sins, including the sin of unbelief, why would anyone still face condemnation? The Arminian view implies that Christ’s death did not actually secure salvation for anyone but only made it possible, undermining the atonement’s efficacy.
God’s Sovereignty
By making salvation dependent on human decision, the Arminian position elevates human free will above God’s sovereign purpose, implying that human choice ultimately determines the outcome of Christ’s work.
Double Payment
If Christ bore the penalty for everyone’s sins, justice would demand that no one be punished for those same sins. Yet, in the Arminian system, some individuals pay for their sins in hell despite Christ’s atoning work.
The Correct View: Definite (or Particular) Atonement
The Reformed view, rooted in Scripture and the doctrines of grace, asserts that Christ’s atonement was definite—intended specifically for the elect and fully securing their salvation.
Here’s why this view is both biblically and theologically sound:
Christ’s Atonement Secures Salvation
Christ did not merely make salvation possible; He accomplished it. On the cross, Jesus declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30), signifying the full payment for the sins of His people. Those for whom Christ died cannot face condemnation because their sins have been completely atoned for (Romans 8:33-34).
God’s Sovereign Choice
Salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace. God chose His elect before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4), and Christ’s atonement was designed to redeem them fully. The elect come to faith because the Holy Spirit effectually calls them and grants them the ability to believe (John 6:37, 44).
Biblical Evidence
The Bible consistently speaks of Christ’s death in terms of a specific people. Jesus says He lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11), not for everyone indiscriminately. Similarly, Paul writes that Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25).
Justice Satisfied
In the Reformed view, no sin goes unpunished. For the elect, Christ bore the full wrath of God on their behalf. For the non-elect, they bear the penalty for their own sins in hell. There is no double payment.
The Glory of Definite Atonement
Definite atonement magnifies God’s grace and sovereignty. It ensures that the atonement is not left to human decision but rests entirely on God’s eternal plan. This doctrine provides assurance to believers because their salvation is grounded not in their wavering faith but in the finished work of Christ. It also gives glory to God alone, for salvation from start to finish is His work.
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