God's election and human responsibility both affirmed; tension maintained
Independent Fundamental Churches affirm God's sovereign election as taught in Romans 9, while maintaining that human beings have genuine responsibility and choice. This reflects a Calvinist or modified Calvinist position that emphasizes the biblical paradox without resolving it into either pure determinism or unlimited human freedom.
The churches teach that God's purposes are certain and unfailingly accomplished, and that God has predestined believers to salvation before the foundation of the world. Yet humans are held responsible for their unbelief and their response to the gospel. This tension is accepted as biblical truth even if it surpasses full human comprehension.
Key Distinctions
- Divine sovereignty:
- Human freedom:
- genuine and accountable
- Election type:
- sovereign and certain
Scripture References
Sources
- Independent Fundamental Churches doctrinal statements