Does I Timothy 2:3-4 Teach a Desire of God to Save All Men Whoever Lived?
Rev. Angus Stewart argues against the interpretation of 1 Timothy 2:3-4 as teaching a universal divine desire for the salvation of all people, contending instead that such an interpretation contradicts God's omnipotence, immutability, and the actual historical proclamation of the gospel. Stewart defends the Reformed doctrine of particular redemption by demonstrating logical problems with the "well-meant offer" position held by proponents like Iain Murray and J.I. Packer.
Rev. Angus Stewart “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time” (I Tim. 2:3-6). God “will have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth” (I Tim. 2:4). Many, including Iain Murray and J. I. Packer (who, sadly, has compromised...