[Genoa]

There are many assurances in statements made by Jesus, Paul, etc., that I think need to be read in their proper context. In each case, the person is being addressed with the understanding that he is a believer and continues as such.

Concerning your statement about God keeping us, isn't that with regard to the efforts of Satan? God defends us against threats from without, not from within. We are free agents.

[Persevero]

“We are free agents.”

That statement is what pretty much separates ‘Calvinists’ from ‘Arminians.’ Both are Christians, but we do disagree as to the part election plays in salvation.

Both would say that mankind is responsible before God for his sins, and must respond in faith to the offer of the gospel to be saved.

But Calvinists would say that, unless God makes the first action and changes our hearts, we can’t make that move.