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It is written:
“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble;”. (2 Peter 1:10)
Calvinists maintain that God has unconditional elected some people to salvation.
We have seen several examples in which this doctrine has been proven false. Now, we will notice that there are conditions upon becoming one of the elect of God. Peter makes this clear in our passage.
Speaking of the grammar of this text, one scholar has noted:
“Be diligent’ translates the same root word used in verse 5, save here it is an imperative verb. With the word mallon, Peter is calling for more fort on their part to add those seven qualities. The word ‘to make’ (poieisthai) is middle voice, implying something done for one’s self, or for ones own benefit. ‘Calling and election (choosing, NASB)’ are viewed as one thing. Their calling (invitation) to become a Christian came through the Gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14). They became God’s chosen people when they responded to the invitation. This ‘calling-election’ is what Peter wants his readers to guarantee or make certain. ‘The word (bebaian, ‘certain’) has a legal sense. It is the legal guarantee obtained by the buyer from the seller, to be gone back upon should a third party claim the thing. Here the readers are called upon to produce a guarantee of their calling and election. This may be done by cultivation of the Christian graces.’ Do you want to guarantee your salvation? Then diligently and habitually see to it that the Christians are ‘yours and are increasing.’” (Gareth L. Reese, New Testament Epistles: 1 & 2 Peter Judge: A Critical And Exegetical Comemtnary, 362-363 (Nook Edition); Moberly, Missouri; Scripture Exposition Books LLC)
Peter here is reminding us that we play a part in the election process. It is only when we choose to accept God’s gracious offer of salvation by obeying His Gospel that we become part of His “elect” people, the church.
The doctrine of unconditional election is not true.
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