Expert: Glenn Hansen - 2/25/2009

Question

Hi,i hold on to the reformed position of understanding
that you cannot loose their salvation I would like to ask two questions in regards to Judas (the one who betrayed Jesus) and King Saul. Christians under understanding reformed theology will state that Judas was never
a believer since the beginning and his end determined that fact. This is very clear in scriptures.
Q: How is it so that Jesus chose Judas as one of the 12?
Is this a choice unto ministry and not onto life?
As in, is it possible for one to be called to ministry and not to eternal life? I do know that by choosing Judas, it was vital for him to fulfill the scriptures of the prophecies in John 13:18.
May I know how I can best answer this?

My second question:
How do we best explain King Saul? It is clear in scriptures that he was a chosen king by God and that the Holy Spirit dwelled in him. Though it is also stated that the spirit left him and God later rejected him as king. I understand that this was in the time of the old Covenant, but how do we reconcile with scriptures in regards to the
departure of the Holy Spirit on King Saul?
Is this yet again a call to ministry and not to eternal life?  I am able to draw reference to a few builders of the tabernacle  whom the Spirit was given to them in aiding them to fulfill God's purposes.
These are asked based on the reformed position.
Your reply will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Answer
Jason, It is a mistake to assume a position and then interpret Scripture from that position. We must all humbly come to
God in the position of a learner. Let's say you have no position but are simply open to being taught by God. That's the best position.

As you know, people have disagreed over this issue for centuries.

One approach would be to look at all the scripture that deals with the elect or the election. Look at every text and then sort them into groups based on what aspect of the subject they pertain to. Once you have done that, you should be able to come up with a reasonable view based on Scripture.

Once you have done that, let me know what you discover.