Choices Quote by Jacques Ellul
“It is inconceivable that the God who gives Himself in His Son to save us, should have created some people ordained to evil and damnation. There can only be one predestination to salvation. In and through Jesus Christ all people are predestined to be saved. Our free choice is ruled out in this regard. God wants free people, except in relation to this last and definitive decision. We are not free to decide and choose to be damned.”
About This Quote
The quote asserts that divine salvation is predetermined for all, denying any human agency in damnation, and frames predestination as a universal, exclusive act of God.
In simple terms: Universal predestination eliminates free will in salvation.
Salvation is a divine decree, not a choice.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- theological debate
- personal crisis of faith
- sermon preparation
- academic study of doctrine
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- pastoral counseling
- systematic theology
Questions to Reflect On
- Does predestination diminish moral responsibility?
- How does this view affect compassion for the condemned?