The author of this article vigorously opposes the use of the expression, "The atonement is sufficient for all, but efficient only for the elect." This is the expression associated with the doctrine of limited atonement that is confessed in the Reformed tradition.
This is an extensive defense from Scripture of the doctrine of the sovereignty of God, touching upon words such as chosen, elect, election, calling, appointed, and ordained. The article also touches on the nature of the human will.
The election of Israel to be the people of God is a significant theme in the Old Testament. This special position of Israel has offended many people both in the ancient and modern world. In a world of "equal opportunity," people argue that the idea of election leads to violence because it in effect defines all other nations as the enemy. The elect and the non-elect are seen as antagonistic categories.
With whom was the covenant of grace made? The covenant of grace was made with Christ as the second Adam, and in him with all the elect as his seed. In baptism God proffers to our children the truth and promise of the gospel - a truth which is accomplished through the work of Christ and applied by the Spirit, according to God's election and his enabling us to respond in faith. "If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Gal.
Defending the doctrine of limited atonement, this article gives the biblical ground for particular redemption and the arguments supporting it. Though Christ's atonement was sufficient for the whole human race, God chose to limit salvation to the elect.
