Required reading
Firstly Murray clarifies what the doctrine does not mean: 'It does not mean that every one who professes faith in Christ and who is accepted as a believer in the fellowship of the saints is secure for eternity'.
Coming out of this thought, Murray then looks at the meaning of apostasy and the lengths and heights to which a temporary faith may carry those who have it.
Thus Murray concludes that we cannot then say that a believer is secure whatever may be the extent of his addiction to sin. But what we can say is that the true saints will most definitely persevere to the end. Several solid proof texts are given to close the chapter.
One of Murray's strengths is his ability to finish chapters extraordinarily well. As I read each chapter I actually find myself anticipating the last paragraph. And today I was not disappointed: 'Have we not in this truth new reason to marvel at the grace of God and the immutability of his love. It is the indissolubility of the bond of the covenant of God's grace that undergirds this precious article of faith. "For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my lovingkindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall my covenant of peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee" (Isaiah 54:10).'
Ok, God wrote almost half that paragraph, but still it was Murray who chose to end the chapter with a top notch verse!
Now it's your turn
Go over to http://www.challies.com/ and post your thoughts.
No comments:
Post a Comment