1689 3.7
1689 London Baptist Confession
3.7. Of God's Decree
The Doctrine of this high mystery of predestination, is to be handled with special prudence, and care; that men attending the will of God revealed in his word, and yeilding obedience thereunto, may from the certainty of their effectual vocation, be assured of their eternal election; so shall this doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God, and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation, to all that sincerely obey the Gospel.
Proof texts
- 1 Thessalonians 1:4, 5 — [4] For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, [5] because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake.
- 2 Peter 1:10 — [10] Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.
- Ephesians 1:6 — [6] to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.
- Romans 11:33 — [33] Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
- Romans 11:5, 6, 20 — [5] So too at the present time there is a remnant, chosen by grace. [6] But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace. [20] That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear.
- Luke 10:20 — [20] Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
For discussion
- The Assembly cited 1 Thessalonians 1:4, 5 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
- 6 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
- WSC Q7 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
- WSC Q8 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
Read alongside
WSC Q7 · WSC Q8 · WLC Q12 · WLC Q13 · WLC Q14 · WCF 3.1 · BC 5.1 · CD 1.1 · SD 3.1