God's election is conditional on faith; God hardens those who resist; divine sovereignty and human freedom
The Universal Church of the Kingdom of God takes a nuanced Arminian-Pentecostal position on Romans 9:18-21. God is sovereign and has the right to choose whom He will; however, this sovereignty operates in concert with human faith and responsive choice. Romans 9 speaks of God's sovereign plan for the nations (Pharaoh, Israel) but not necessarily of individual predestination to damnation.
In UCKG theology, emphasizing seed-faith giving and prosperity, God's choice to bless or 'harden' is understood conditionally: those who exercise faith, give offerings, and obey the Church's teachings experience God's blessing and softened hearts. Those who resist God's Word and refuse to give or obey experience God's judgment and hardened hearts. The text illustrates God's right to execute judgment on those who persistently reject Him.
The UCKG avoids strict Calvinist determinism (which would undermine the prosperity gospel's call to active faith and giving) while maintaining God's ultimate sovereignty. Romans 9 is read within the context of God's desire that all be saved (1 Timothy 2:4) and God's willingness to bless those who respond in faith.
Scripture References
Sources
- UCKG Doctrinal Statements on election
- Arminian-Pentecostal theology