Unconditional Election with Matt Slick, Part 2

Shawn McCraney discusses the concept of "Unconditional Election," highlighting the Calvinist belief that God predestines certain individuals to salvation without human effort or merit, while others are left to eternal damnation. Despite differing views within Christianity on these theological points, Shawn emphasizes that these disagreements should not divide believers, as the core of Christian unity lies in the shared reception of the Gospel.

Shawn emphasizes that while the concept of election, where God chooses certain individuals for salvation, is clearly supported in scripture, the idea of reprobation and the damnation of the non-elect remain complex and mysterious, challenging both Calvinist and Arminian views. He asserts that divine election should be understood within a broader biblical context, illustrating God's will and actions throughout scripture, and cautions against making definitive claims about the exact nature and conditions of election.

Total Reconciliation is a theological perspective that acknowledges God's ultimate authority and love while affirming human free will, positing that God, through His foreknowledge, predestines those who accept Christ by faith to salvation while allowing others to reconsider their choices in hell, eventually fostering universal reconciliation. This view holds that all individuals will eventually recognize Jesus as Lord, facilitated by the Holy Spirit, allowing God's just and merciful nature to be harmonized with human freedom, and is consistent with a contextual scriptural understanding.

Understanding that Jesus is the author and finisher of faith implies that salvation is accessible to all, not just to a select few chosen arbitrarily by God. The approach to reaching individuals from different beliefs, such as those in the LDS Church, involves reasoning through biblical understanding, especially focusing on the purpose of the Mosaic Law, as it was meant to reveal God's perfect standards and humanity's need for a savior.

Shawn emphasizes the importance of focusing on the core tenets of the Gospel to come to Christ and achieve salvation, advocating for genuine faith and spiritual rebirth as the foundation rather than adhering to complex theological doctrines like Calvinism. He critiques the approach that emphasizes predestination, suggesting it diminishes the significance of Christ's sacrifice and encourages believers to seek truth, light, and a personal relationship with God.

Shawn's teachings emphasize helping individuals, particularly those questioning or leaving Mormonism, to understand Christian principles and the teachings of Jesus Christ, fostering personal growth and exploration in faith through accessible and practical applications. His efforts include providing resources and answering inquiries, aiming to correct misconceptions and offering support for people transitioning out of Mormonism, all while promoting love and understanding as central tenets for experiencing God's intentions.

Shawn's teaching reflects on the struggle of maintaining personal authenticity within the Mormon faith, emphasizing that repetitively affirming church teachings can feel disingenuous and coercive. This sentiment highlights the internal conflict experienced by individuals who question their faith, as well as the societal pressures faced in areas like Provo.