The covenant and Dordt (13): Head V: Assurance of final salvation
Dykstra examines the doctrine of assurance as debated at the Synod of Dort, demonstrating how conditional covenant theology parallels Arminianism in its attempt to provide assurance to all baptized children rather than to the elect alone. The article critiques the conditional covenant framework by showing its logical similarities to the Arminian position rejected at Dordt, arguing instead for an unconditional covenant rooted in God's sovereign election.
Assurance was a significant doctrine faced at the Synod of Dordt in 1618-19. The Arminians insisted no man could have assurance that salvation was his unless he was told: "God loves you and wants to save you." And, said the Arminians, that might not be said to him unless it is true that God loves everyone, Christ died for everyone, and God's desire is to save all. Assurance is also a significant issue in the doctrine of the covenant. The conditional covenant touts itself as the covenant...
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