What about people in hell?
In this view, people in hell had to walk over Jesus’ dead body to enter its hideous gates because He reached out to them (1 John 2:2; John 16:7). They chose to reject a real offer for salvation.
Problem
I firmly believe that the 3rd option is the most faithful to the Biblical narrative; nevertheless, I must walk with a limp. Regardless of which one of these views we hold to, it’s still a mystery. And above all, Jesus is more concerned with us joining Him on mission; that’s why I’m writing this from my favorite coffee shop where God has sovereignly connected me with people who’ve come to faith over the years.
Church, I love you. Pastors, fellow believers, I’m for you. I hope this blog helps. If you’d like to read more, check out Doctrine by Mark Driscoll and Dr. Gerry Bershears, Chosen But Free by Dr. Norm L. Geisler, and the chapter entitled “The Work of God: Salvation” by Dr. Kenneth Keathly in the book, A Theology for the Church, edited by Dr. Danny Aiken.
Marinate on that,
Pastor Derwin
