"Who is a God like to you, that pardons iniquity, and passes by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retains not his anger for ever, because he delights in mercy."
-Micah 7:18
One of my Calvinist ex-associates sent me this verse in an email. He claimed that it proved that the Atonement was limited to just the elect and no more. I don't know how to respond. What should I do?
I dont think there is a need to respond to your Calvinist ex-associate. You are the one in doubt, so dispel your doubt with the truth.
Ray says (which he proves through the bible) we need at least two witnesses to establish truth. Micah 7:18 is only part of the truth. God not only forgives the sins of His remnant, but He also forgives the sins of all through the blood of Christ.
Rom 3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ
unto all and upon all them that believe:
for there is no difference:
Rom 3:23
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Rom 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
Rom 3:25
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; Rom 3:26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
1Jn 2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
1Jn 2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins:
and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
Mercy is not only for the remnant.
Rom 11:32
For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.
Pro 16:6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
It would really help to think positive. Dwelling on negative lies (i.e. eternal torture) will only hold you back. Think of the good things God is, like love as others have mentioned.
Php 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Pro 23:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he:
Try it.
Sincerely hope this helps.
G.Driggs