Denies
No predestination; God's Love embraces all; individual choice determines destiny
Christian Science rejects the doctrine of predestination or unconditional election as incompatible with God's infinite Love and the individual's freedom to awaken to Truth. Romans 9 is understood as Paul addressing a particular historical situation (Jewish rejection of the Gospel) rather than teaching universal predestinatory doctrine. God's love and grace are universally available; salvation (understood as spiritual awakening) comes through individual recognition of divine Truth. The concept of God 'hardening' anyone's heart contradicts the reality of God's perfect Love. All have equal access to Truth and can progress spiritually.
Key Distinctions
- Divine sovereignty:
- infinite; embraces all equally
- Human freedom:
- individual choice determines spiritual awakening
- Election type:
- rejected
Scripture References
Sources
- Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, Mary Baker Eddy