J.A. Matteson
There is something about the fallen future of man that resents God's election to salvation. The fallen nature insists on contributing something to the transaction. Yet Scripture offers no consolation to that plea, "knowing, brethren beloved by God, His choice of you; for our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction...." (1 Thess. 1:4-5). According the the apostle those chosen for salvation are known to the world by their genuine faith and repentance, both gifts of God. The reprobate hear the same gospel and it has no effect upon the heart. Those chosen are given ears to hear while the rest remain spiritually deaf. At the same time all are accountable to God to respond positively to His command to repent and believe the Gospel so that their fate for rejecting it is their responsibility. On the Day of judgement none can say to God, "Why did you make me this way?" Who are we to talk back to God? Today is the day of salvation, let those with ears hear. Sola deo Gloria.
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