Bad news Quote by Clark H. Pinnock
““Election has nothing to do with the eternal salvation of individuals but refers instead to God's way of saving nations. It was a major mistake of the Reformation to have decided to follow Augustine in this matter, taking election to refer to grace and salvation. It manages to make bad news out of good news. It casts a deep shadow over the character of God. At it worst, it can lead to awful consequences in terms of pride, arrogance, superiority, and intolerance as the ideology of election takes hold. It causes the church to become, not a sign of the unity of humanity in the love of God, but the sign of favorites in the midst of the enemies of God.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Theology of Election, 1995
Election doctrine can distort God's character, fostering pride and division, rather than unity and love.
In simple terms: Election can lead to arrogance and exclusion.
Key Takeaway
Guard against elitist interpretations of doctrine.
Themes
theology
election
pride
unity
intolerance
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
theology
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- sermons
- theological education
- church leadership
- interfaith dialogue
- personal study
Key Concepts
Divine sovereignty
human destiny
church unity
spiritual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief in election affect community?
- What safeguards prevent theological elitism?
A Different Perspective
Doctrine can be balanced with love and humility.
