Is the word all ever used in a restricted sense ?

[atpollard]

In Calvinism, the term "all" is often used in a limited sense, particularly in the context of the five points of Calvinism. The TULIP acronym represents the five key doctrines of Calvinism: Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints.

Each of these points is supported by specific scripture references, and the use of the term "all" in these doctrines is often interpreted in a way that emphasizes the exclusivity of the elect and the universality of God's grace. Calvinists argue that the "all" in these doctrines does not imply that all people are saved, but rather that God's grace is extended to all who are elect.

This interpretation is often contrasted with Arminian interpretations, which may see the "all" as a broader application of God's grace to all humanity.

So you might ask "have Calvinists lost all their marbles?" And the answer would be "yes, but only in a restricted way".

So when “all men” are drawn to Jesus in John 12:32 (And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto me.), how exactly were the people living in the Western Hemisphere in the 1200’s (Pre-Columbus) “DRAWN” to Jesus Christ whom they had never heard of? (Since “all” means “all”.)

Romans 10:14 [NLT] But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?

 

[metamorphosis]

Does 'All' Really Mean 'All'?

 

[Clifford]

Calvinists believe that all people are conceived in sin and are born children of wrath, unfit for any saving good, inclined to evil, dead in their sins, and slaves to sin; without the grace of the regenerating Holy Spirit they are neither willing nor able to return to God, to reform their distorted nature, or even to dispose themselves to such reform.

The error in their view is that people do not become children of wrath due to their sinful acts, but they enter the world as children of wrath.

Also, sinners are unable to return to God apart from the regenerating work of the Spirit. In other words, sinners must be saved to return to God.

And if you are not a Calvinists you are out of luck

From The Canons of Dort