Editor's Comments

Walter J. Chantry


Arminianism is the theology which asserts the supremacy of man's will over God's in every phase of salvation. As a sort of Christian Humanism, it has claimed that man is not so fallen as to be unable to do what he must to be saved. The plan to save men is founded on a choice by men, not upon the choice of God. Christ died for all men alike and left the outcome of his redeeming work fully in the grasp of the decisive powers of men. It is no surprise, then, that those who hold to this way of thinking believe men are intentionally given the ability to yield to the operations of the Holy Spirit or to resist them as man wishes.

When the apostles asked in astonishment, 'Who, then, can be saved?', Jesus responded, 'With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God, all things are possible!' (Mark 10:26-27). It seems that Jesus placed the decisive ability in making salvation effective on the side of the Almighty. It must be embarrassing to Christian Humanists to read the biblical account of Lydia's conversion: 'The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul' (Acts 16:14).

Scripture constantly upholds the 'prevenient grace' of God. It asserts God's working prior to man's action in receiving the gospel. When Peter expressed saving faith by saying to our Lord, 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God', our Savior commented, 'flesh and blood has not revealed this unto you, but My Father who is in heaven' (Matt. 16:16-17).

None of his remarks are so telling as our Lord's instruction of Nicodemus in John 3:1-8. Without a prior new birth no man can 'see', nor can he 'enter' the kingdom of God. God is not powerless until man gives the nod. Man is spiritually lifeless until God gives a new heart.

We believe that the Almighty will arise and work where his word is faithfully preached. Therefore with an eye of confidence upon his transforming power, we eagerly present the gospel to the world. In this issue of the magazine is an unusual attachment telling of a great opportunity to spread the gospel into many corners of the earth. Iain Murray's account of the Book Fund may stir your prayers and support for this work. God will remain faithful to his eternal Word.


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