The Elect Have Obtained What Israel Has Not Obtained

Among the more difficult biblical doctrines is the doctrine of reprobation. That is, even as the Lord sovereignly and eternally elects some unto salvation, He also sovereignly and eternally leaves others in their sins unto damnation. But repeatedly, the inspired apostle insists that both election unto salvation and reprobation unto damnation must equally be true even if our flesh would have it otherwise. As we confess together in the Canons of Dort, "To those who murmur at the free grace of election and the just severity of reprobation we answer with the apostle… (Romans 9:20), and quote the language of our Savior… (Matthew 20:15). And therefore, with holy adoration of these mysteries, we exclaim in the words of the apostle: 'O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has become His counselor? Or who has first given to Him and it shall be repaid to Him? For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.'" (Romans 11:33-36) – Pastor Schlegel