@Obadiah
Unfortunately you have been duped into believing that, its actually the Gospel Truth
Gospel Truth as far as Calvinists go is thy are are still spiritually dead.
The concept of spiritual death is a significant theme in biblical theology, particularly in relation to the nature of sin, salvation, and the transformative power of the gospel. To understand why spiritual death is not about a moral inability but rather a state of separation from the life offered by the gospel, we can explore several key biblical principles.
1. Definition of Spiritual Death
Spiritual death is primarily understood as separation from God due to sin. This is evident in passages like Ephesians 2:1-3, which states, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked.” Here, “dead” indicates a state of being separated from the life and relationship that God offers. This separation is not about moral incapacity but signifies a profound disconnection from the source of life, which is God Himself.
2. The Nature of Sin and Separation
In Isaiah 59:2, it is stated, “But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God.” This verse emphasizes that sin creates a barrier between humanity and God, resulting in spiritual death. Rather than indicating an inability to respond positively, this separation suggests that individuals are estranged from the divine life, which they were created to enjoy. It highlights the relational aspect of spiritual death—humanity’s alienation from God rather than a complete moral inability to choose good.
3. God’s Initiative in Redemption
The biblical narrative consistently shows that God takes the initiative to restore the relationship that sin has broken. In John 3:16, we see that “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Here, the offer of life is extended to all, indicating that while spiritual death creates a barrier, it does not eliminate the possibility of response to God’s appeal. God’s gracious work through the gospel enables individuals to respond to the truth they otherwise would have never known (Rom. 10:13).
4. The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in awakening individuals to their need for God. In John 16:8, Jesus mentions that the Holy Spirit will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness. This conviction suggests that while people are spiritually dead, they are still capable of responding to the Spirit’s work. The Spirit’s role is to illuminate the truth of the gospel and draw individuals toward the life offered through Christ. This indicates that spiritual death does not equate to an inability to respond but rather a need for divine intervention. The incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, inspiration of scripture and commissioning of the Bride of Christ are some of the ways God has chosen to intervene; to which all mankind is able to respond and thus is held justly responsible.
5. Human Responsibility and Response
The Bible consistently calls individuals to respond to God’s invitation to life. In Deuteronomy 30:19, God sets before His people life and death, urging them to choose life. This call implies that despite their spiritual condition, people have the capacity to respond to God’s offer. Romans 10:13 reinforces this idea, stating, “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” The emphasis here is on the opportunity for response rather than an innate deterministic inability.
Conclusion
In summary, spiritual death in the biblical context refers to a state of separation from the life that God offers through the gospel. It underscores the relational rupture caused by sin, rather than an inability to respond to God. The biblical narrative highlights God’s initiative in redemption, the convicting work of the Holy Spirit, and the inherent responsibility of individuals to respond to the divine call. Thus, spiritual death is best understood as a separation due to our own rebellion that necessitates God’s grace and intervention, allowing for the possibility of a positive response to the gospel and the restoration of life in Christ.
Reflections of a Disenchanted Calvinist by Tim Cary