In this episode, Dr. R. C. Sproul turns the spotlight on the Westminster Confession’s treatment of predestination. He asks what it means that God chooses some for salvation “before the foundation of the world,” and why that choice is described as unconditional.

Why Does the Confession Say Only Some Are Saved?

Sproul contrasts the Confession’s view of particular redemption with the idea of universalism. He explains that the Confession teaches that not every person will ultimately be saved, and that this particularity is rooted in God’s eternal decree rather than in human merit or foreseen faith.

What Is Unconditional Election According to the Confession?

The Confession declares that God’s election is not based on any condition we meet or will meet. Sproul highlights the passage that says God chose the elect “out of His mere free grace and love without any foresight of faith or good works.” He points out that this choice is made “before the foundation of the world” and is tied to God’s eternal and immutable purpose.

How Does the Confession Describe God’s Secret Counsel?

Sproul notes that the Confession speaks of the elect’s names being known only to God, hidden from human knowledge. He discusses the idea that this secrecy is part of God’s sovereign plan and raises the question of how believers can have assurance of salvation within that framework.

What Does the Confession Say About God’s Pleasure in Election?

Sproul explains that the Confession says God elects out of the good pleasure of His will. He wrestles with the concern that this might make God seem arbitrary, and argues that the pleasure is always good, not capricious, and that God’s choice serves His eternal purpose.

To hear how Sproul unpacks these points and how the Westminster Confession guides a deeper study of predestination, listen to the full audio.