As I was reviewing this question, it became apparent that the analogy used (by me) was forced into a question about God in which the analogy doesn’t belong. There is a category mix-up, and I believe I am at fault for this.
Naw, you are fine. Analogies break down, don't let the break-down ever be the hook against you.
In this case, the problem isn't an imperative ("Breathe!"). The problem is the inability i.e. unless you breathe, you are dead. We are born dead, in your analogy. Babies
have to cry to live. A doctor or nurse stimulates the child.
Without Christ, we are totally unable to live. Christ
is the met condition to live, for believers.
Romans 1 says every man is culpable, 'because' they know they are sinning. We are born, not with 'good' intact, but a 'good/God indicator' intact.
The analogy question is: Is God just for with-holding ability to breath, in Christ?
No, He didn't cause the malady. Furthermore, not freewill, but a good/God indicator, that knows the difference, makes us culpable for doing that which we ought not, and living as we ought not. Whether Christ provided the remedy for all or a few, is completely beside the point.
The nonCalvinist will object and say it
is the point. :nono:
We all are responsible for ourselves alone. It is really none of their business. They are demanding God's blood be shed for all. That is literally, none of our business. If scripture portrays 'all' we need to deal with that in a logical manner, but that too is none of their business. They are responsible for what they believe, alone, regarding a doctrinal stance that is God's alone. As a body, we have to share the gospel, so it is important as a body, to discuss evangelism, but it doesn't change anything. We water, sow, and God gives increase.
In the analogy of the wheat and tares, the Arminian will have Christ's work raining on the just and the unjust. In the Calvinist camp, it would be more akin to God fertilizing only the wheat, knowing the difference, and concerned with His wheat not being choked out by weeds, thus being careful not to cause harm. The rain would fall on the just and the unjust which is Christ's sustaining power (Colossians 1:17). This is very much the way Israel functioned in the land, under judgment. Those around weren't invited in, but converts did come including a whole nation.
When Christ walked the earth, He did draw all men to Him. Many turned away. John 3:16 doesn't say Christ's blood or death, at that point. At that point, Jesus is alive and speaking of Himself. The Calvinist isn't saying Jesus is limited only to the elect, but that atonement is limited.
Only those made right with God (limited) are atoned (made right). That is how I came to limited atonement. I resisted this particular for a very long time, so understand that resistance and empathize.
My endeavor here, is to try and bridge understanding. I understand those who reject it, just trying to ensure that everything is as clear as possible.
-Lon
