Systematic Theology: Key Concepts of Salvation and Eschatology

What is the Golden Chain of Salvation?

The sequence of benefits and changes associated with redemption applied to individual believers.

Define Election in the context of theology.

The act of God choosing certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world.

What does Calling refer to in systematic theology?

The invitation from God for individuals to respond to the Gospel and accept salvation.

What is Regeneration?

The act of God giving new life to a believer, making them spiritually alive.

Explain Conversion.

The process of turning from sin to God, involving faith and repentance.

What does Justification mean?

The act of God declaring a sinner to be righteous based on faith in Jesus Christ.

Define Adoption in a theological context.

The act of God bringing believers into His family as His children.

What is Sanctification?

The process of being made holy, involving growth in righteousness and separation from sin.

What does Perseverance refer to?

The belief that true believers will continue in faith until the end.

What is Glorification?

The final step in salvation where believers are transformed and receive eternal life with God.

Explain Pactum Salutis.

The covenant of redemption made between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit before creation.

What is Historia Salutis?

The historical unfolding of God's plan of salvation throughout history.

Define Ordo Salutis.

The order of salvation, outlining the logical sequence of events in the application of redemption.

What does Union with Christ mean?

The spiritual union between believers and Christ, signifying their identity and relationship with Him.

What is the Great Commission?

Jesus' instruction to His disciples to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations.

What occurred during the Ascension?

Jesus' return to heaven after His resurrection, marking the completion of His earthly ministry.

Explain the significance of Pentecost.

The event when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, empowering them for ministry.

Why did Jesus instruct His disciples to wait before beginning their ministry?

They were to wait for the Holy Spirit to empower them for their mission.

How does Pentecost relate to the Tower of Babel?

At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit enabled diverse languages to unite believers, reversing the division caused at Babel.

How does the ministry of the Spirit after Pentecost differ from the Old Testament?

Post-Pentecost, the Spirit indwells all believers, whereas in the Old Testament, the Spirit came upon individuals temporarily.

What is the distinction between redemption accomplished and applied?

Redemption accomplished refers to Christ's work on the cross, while applied refers to the individual believer's experience of salvation.

How does Peter's speech at Pentecost demonstrate the transformation by the Holy Spirit?

Peter boldly proclaimed the Gospel, showing the Spirit's empowering presence in his life after receiving redemption in Christ.

Describe the roles of the three persons of the Godhead in redemption according to Ephesians 1:3-14.

The Father plans redemption, the Son accomplishes it through His sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit applies it to believers.

What is the definition of predestination in theological terms?

Predestination is the concept of God's planning from eternity past, where certain actions or events are set to occur in a specific way.

How does predestination relate to the golden chain of salvation?

Predestination refers to God's plan for salvation culminating in Christ's return and the establishment of the New Kingdom.

What roles do the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit play in predestination?

The Father plans it, the Son fulfills it through His crucifixion and resurrection, and the Holy Spirit ensures our inheritance.

What does Ephesians 1:4-5 emphasize about predestination?

It emphasizes that God chose us before the foundation of the world for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ.

What is the ordo salutis as described by St. Paul in Romans 8:30?

The ordo salutis is the order of salvation, where those predestined are called, justified, and glorified.

What is the difference between predestination and election?

Predestination is a broader term that includes election; election specifically refers to God's choice of individuals for salvation.

What does the doctrine of election state?

The doctrine of election states that God's choice of who would come to Him precedes human consideration of faith.

What is a common argument against the doctrine of election?

A common argument is questioning the fairness of God if only certain people are chosen for salvation.

What does Romans 8:28-30 reveal about God's foreknowledge?

It reveals that God foreknew and predestined those who would follow His Son, indicating His purpose in salvation.

According to 2 Timothy 1:9, why are we saved?

We are saved not because of our works, but because of God's purpose and grace given in Christ Jesus before time began.

What does 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 indicate about God's choice?

It indicates that God has chosen believers, affirming His love and the power of the gospel in their lives.

What is the significance of the term 'election' in the Reformed tradition?

Election signifies God's sovereign choice in the order of salvation, where He selects individuals for salvation.

What does the term 'golden chain of salvation' refer to?

It refers to the interconnected steps of salvation from predestination to glorification.

How does predestination demonstrate God's omnipotence?

It showcases God's absolute power in orchestrating salvation and glorifying Himself through it.

What is the role of free will in the context of election?

The concept of election raises questions about free will, as it suggests that God's choice precedes human action.

What is the theological implication of predestination affecting all of creation?

It implies that predestination involves not just individuals but all of creation in God's plan for glorification.

What does the term 'ordo salutis' mean?

Ordo salutis means 'order of salvation,' describing the sequence of steps in the process of salvation.

What is the significance of God's mercy in the doctrine of election?

It emphasizes that being elected is due to God's mercy, not based on human merit or works.

How does the concept of predestination relate to evangelism?

It raises questions about the purpose of evangelism if God has already chosen who will be saved.

What does it mean that predestination took place 'nowhere or just within God'?

It means that predestination occurred in eternity past, before the existence of Earth and humanity.

What is the relationship between predestination and God's glorification?

Predestination is ultimately designed to glorify God through the salvation and glorification of His people.

What does Acts 4:27-28 indicate about God's plan?

It indicates that the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion were predestined according to God's plan.

What is the role of the Holy Spirit in the context of predestination?

The Holy Spirit ensures the inheritance of those who are predestined, playing a crucial role in the execution of God's plan.

What does the phrase 'called according to His purpose' imply?

It implies that those who are called have been chosen by God for a specific purpose in His plan.

What does the term 'salvatory chain of events' refer to?

It refers to the series of events orchestrated by God leading to salvation and glorification.

How does predestination affect the understanding of God's sovereignty?

It reinforces the belief that God is sovereign over all events and actions, including salvation.

What is the significance of God's words according to the notes?

God's words have power and substance.

What does 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 emphasize about believers?

Believers are chosen as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and belief in the truth.

How can we show gratitude to God according to the notes?

By following His commandments.

What does John 10:16 indicate about Jesus' followers?

There are sheep who have not yet accepted Jesus, but He knows they will come.

What does the term 'elect' signify in biblical context?

It means 'picked out' or 'chosen' and refers to Christ, angels, and believers.

What does Ephesians 1:4 say about believers' election?

Believers were chosen before the foundation of the world in Christ.

What is the definition of calling in a theological context?

A direct invitation from God to follow Him and have a personal relationship.

What does Proverbs 3:6 suggest about acknowledging God?

Acknowledging God will align your paths with His intended direction.

What does 2 Timothy 1:9 say about God's calling?

God calls us with a holy calling, not based on our works, but according to His purpose and grace.

What is regeneration according to the notes?

The spiritual change in man by the Holy Spirit, resulting in new life.

What does John 3:3-8 teach about being born again?

Being born again is a spiritual revival, not a physical one.

How does Titus 3:5 describe the process of salvation?

Salvation comes through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

What transformation occurs during regeneration according to 2 Corinthians 5:17?

The old spiritual self goes away, and the new creation comes.

What role does God's grace play in election?

Election is based on God's grace, not human merit.

What does Romans 8:30 say about those God predestined?

Those He predestined, He also called, justified, and glorified.

What does 1 Corinthians 1:9 affirm about God's faithfulness?

God is faithful and has called believers into fellowship with His Son.

What is the relationship between calling and personal purpose?

Listening to God's call can deepen a personal relationship and provide strength for one's purpose.

What does the term 'firstfruits' imply in the context of election?

It refers to those chosen by God to be saved, symbolizing a special selection.

How does the concept of 'election' relate to the community of believers?

It includes both individual believers and the collective body of Christ.

What does the washing mentioned in Titus 3:5 symbolize?

It symbolizes the washing away of sins and the renewal of life.

What does the phrase 'new creation' in 2 Corinthians 5:17 signify?

It signifies the transformation that occurs in a believer through regeneration.

What is the primary focus of God's calling according to the notes?

To bring individuals from darkness and sin into glory.

What does the term 'predestination' imply in the context of salvation?

It implies that God has foreknown and determined who will be saved.

How does God's calling relate to living a life worthy of Him?

Believers are urged to live a life that glorifies God as a response to His calling.

What does the concept of 'sheep' represent in John 10:16?

It represents those who have not yet accepted Jesus but will eventually respond to His voice.

What is the significance of the Holy Spirit in regeneration?

The Holy Spirit is the agent of spiritual change, giving new life to believers.

What is regeneration in Christian theology?

Regeneration is the process of spiritual rebirth where the old self is gone and a new spirit is created within a believer.

Which biblical verse discusses the concept of receiving a new heart?

Ezekiel 36:26-27 discusses God giving a new heart and spirit.

What does it mean to be 'born again' according to 1 Peter 1:23?

Being born again refers to a spiritual birth that is imperishable, achieved through the living and enduring word of God.

What is conversion in a biblical context?

Conversion is the act of turning away from a sinful life and turning towards God, emulating Jesus.

How is repentance related to conversion?

Repentance involves taking action to repair wrongs and is a necessary step in the process of conversion.

What Old Testament example illustrates conversion?

The Israelites returning to God after falling into sin and idolatry is an example of conversion.

What does Acts 3:19 say about repentance and conversion?

Acts 3:19 states that repentance and turning to God leads to the forgiveness of sins.

What role does conversion play in the chain of salvation?

Conversion is a crucial transitional role that occurs after predestination and calling, leading to justification.

What is justification in Christian theology?

Justification is the act of being declared righteous by God through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works.

Which Greek verb is associated with justification?

The Greek verb dikaioō (δικαιόω) means 'to justify' or 'declare righteous.'

According to Galatians 2:16, how are we justified?

We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law.

What does Romans 5:1-2 say about peace with God?

Romans 5:1-2 states that we have peace with God through being justified by faith.

What does Titus 3:5-7 emphasize about justification?

Titus 3:5-7 emphasizes that justification is an act of God's grace, not based on human merit.

What does Romans 3:23-28 teach about sin and justification?

Romans 3:23-28 teaches that all have sinned and are justified by God's grace as a gift through faith in Christ.

What is the significance of the phrase 'times of refreshing' in Acts 3:19?

It signifies the renewal and restoration that comes from repentance and conversion.

How does conversion relate to the mission of the church?

Conversion is central to the church's mission, calling all to turn from sin and embrace faith in Christ.

What does it mean to 'turn from' in the context of conversion?

To 'turn from' means to reject a sinful lifestyle and embrace a life aligned with God's will.

What is the relationship between conversion and the gifts of Christ?

Conversion is the moment when a person receives the gifts of Christ and begins their subjective experience of salvation.

What does it mean to be justified by faith?

To be justified by faith means being declared righteous by God based on belief in Jesus Christ's atoning work.

What does the term 'mercy' imply in the context of justification?

Mercy implies that justification is granted by God's grace, not earned by human actions.

How does justification display God's attributes?

Justification displays God's law and justice in condemning sin, His mercy in pardoning sinners, and His wisdom in harmonizing both.

What is the ultimate result of justification according to Christian belief?

The ultimate result of justification is reconciliation with God and the hope of eternal life.

What does it mean to have a 'new spirit' after regeneration?

Having a 'new spirit' means being empowered by the Holy Spirit to follow God's decrees and laws.

What is the significance of the phrase 'heart of stone' in Ezekiel 36?

The 'heart of stone' symbolizes a hardened, unresponsive heart that God replaces with a 'heart of flesh' during regeneration.

What does the phrase 'not of perishable seed' signify in 1 Peter 1:23?

It signifies that the new birth is spiritual and eternal, not subject to decay or death.