Ok, that was simply rude. There was truth in what Aquinas wrote. It does take some prayerful concentration to understand what he is trying to say but in this I will (don’t faint stfassisi or don’t say I didn’t warn ya) agree with stfassisi. If I am reading it correctly, regarding Esau, Aquinas answers this situation correctly.
We might all agree on things at times. Perhaps that should be where we start from that point more often :-)
Time to sign off for the night on that note.
I wish you a Blessed evening!
No, there is no truth in it. The facts are that Paul wrote to make the claim God is choosing men, not the other way round. All efforts to soften this claim are foolish, man-centered heresy. Look back at history and you will find Augustine argued against much of this (along with some error on his own) and the Reformers revived the arguments. Theirs focus was on Arminias and related heresies, as well as the vast error developed by the RCC (sacerdotalism, indulgences, mariolatry, absolution, purgatory, etc.). If you think my words were rude, you may wish to read Luther's "Bondage of the Will."
Additionally, there are several places in Paul's & Peter's letters where they got harsh and pointed. "You foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you..." etc. Strong language is not rude, nor unkind when the rebuke is necessary to point out bizarre error. Perhaps some like sentimentality and smarmy talk in order to sound "spiritual", but if the content is from the pit, it needs said. Aquinas was wrong and so is the RCC. Nevertheless, God is managing even that.
I give you the last word here, my FRiend. I must return to work. Grace to you.