Originally posted by Scott J:
But why would one choose to obey God? It isn't a question as to whether we are called to choose.... it is a question of why would a sinner ever choose light over darkness.
The sower sows the "SEED", but where it falls determines if the seed grows or not, the "SEED" it's self isn't "defective", but the "GROUND" on which it falls.
Do you know that "FLESH" is made from "GROUND", or "Dust of the earth???
If it's "GOOD GROUND", the seed grows, however if the Ground isn't good ground, the seed won't grow.
Mt 13:18 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit,
The parble explains why the seed doesn't grow, and in neither case is the failure due to the fault of the "SEED", but to the ground on which it fell.
Now, would you like to explain to me again how the failure of the seed to grow, condemning the person, is the results of God's "CHOSING" rather than the "Ground" on which it fell???
And if God isn't responsible for the type of ground on which the seed falls, "WHO IS"???