Originally Posted by
Van
Folks, recall I pointed out that Calvinism is supported by ripping phrases out of context. Here we have yet another specific example. Genesis 6:5 says (NASB) "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." Now Calvinists contend the idea here is that every thought of men at all times is evil. But that is not what the verse says. Look 3 verses later to Genesis 6:8 where Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Obviously Noah was not contemplating evil when he found favor. So what is the actual message of Genesis 6:5 if we put it back in context? The actual message is simple, man in his fallen state is depraved, wicked and predisposed to evil. Thus a mind set on the flesh is hostile to God. But if a man, such as Noah, sets his mind on the spiritual things he can understand, he can find favor in the eyes of the Lord. Noah, fallen and depraved like any other man was a righteous man who walked with God. Noah did as God commanded.
Then in verse 21, we learn that even though the intent of man's heart is evil from his youth, God has no need to destroy the corrupted people of the Ark, or their descendants, because some of them would trust in God and be a people for His own possession. And so among Noah's son Shem's descendants we find Abraham, who also was obedient to God, even though every intent of his heart was evil. We are not compelled by our fallen nature to never turn to God or follow His commands.
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