Of Effectual Calling
All those whom God hath predestined unto life, and those only, He is pleased, in His appointed time, effectually to call… Others, not elected, although they may be called by the ministry of the Word,…cannot be saved.
The Lutheran understanding of the call of God seems more in line with the overall tenor of Scripture: there is one call unto salvation. With some it is effectual, with others not. Yet it is God’s serious intent that it be effectual in all. “Many are called.” (Matthew 22:14) The gospel ” is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16)
