Faith without religion.
Hebrews 2: Hell, Universal Salvation, and Divine Justice
In our recent exploration of Hebrews 1, we delved into the profound imagery and theological implications presented in the text. The chapter draws comparisons between Jesus and the prophets, God, and heavenly angels, culminating in a thought-provoking discussion on verse 13. This verse raises questions about Jesus’ position at the right hand of God and the eventual subjugation of His enemies. It prompts us to consider the nature of His enemies, their location, and the ultimate purpose of their defeat.
This inquiry led us to examine the concept of God’s sovereignty, particularly through the lens of Calvinism and its doctrine of irresistible grace. Scripture supports the notion of God’s absolute sovereignty, as seen in passages like Psalms 115:3 and Ephesians 1:11. However, this raises questions about human free will and the nature of God’s love. Can a loving God create beings destined for eternal damnation?
We explored the idea of God’s foreknowledge as a means of reconciling His sovereignty with human free will. Through foreknowledge, God allows for free choice while ensuring His divine will is fulfilled. This concept is illustrated in the story of Joseph and the crucifixion of Jesus, where human actions align with God’s predetermined plan.
The biblical concept of firstfruits further illuminates God’s sovereign plan. Firstfruits represent the best and first of a harvest, symbolizing Jesus as the firstfruits of resurrection. This notion extends to believers, who are the firstfruits of the Spirit, indicating that more will follow.
Ultimately, our understanding of God’s sovereignty, love, and foreknowledge challenges us to embrace a holistic view of scripture. It suggests that God’s plan encompasses all, allowing for free will while achieving His divine purpose. As we continue this journey, we seek to align our understanding with the entirety of God’s word, recognizing that His love and sovereignty are not mutually exclusive but intricately woven together.