Member’s Spotlight: Irresistible Grace

Ever heard of TULIP? I’m not talking about the flower, but rather a common definition of “Calvinism.” The acronym stands for Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace, and Perseverance of the saints. In terms of a theological tool, TULIP is as good as they come—it’s memorable, to the point, and biblical.

Many object to TULIP, and that’s fine (on some level). Christians have and will disagree about secondary doctrines. Our similarities far outweigh our differences! Nevertheless, TULIP captures sound theological teaching that arises from Scripture. Take the I—“irresistible grace”—for example. Irresistible grace concerns the idea that Christ’s salvation of His Bride (the church) will happen, regardless of any impediment or hindrance. Not even the church’s own resistance can prevent Christ from capturing her heart! Powerful stuff. Where is it taught in Scripture?

In John 6:37, Jesus says this: “All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” There’s a simple flow to this passage—the Father gives, people come, and Christ keeps. As it pertains to our topic, the questions we should ask are, “Is the response of the ‘all’ sure, certain, and guaranteed? Or, are there some who are given by the Father to the Son who don’t come?” The answer to these questions is found by examining that the verb “will come”—notice that it’s future tense. “Will come” is a promise from Christ regarding the certainty of the Bride’s response to His love. Christ accomplishes what He sets out to do—save the church. She follows because He is so great.

Pastor Chance Sumner