[Dr. Eckleburg]

As RnMom used to ask, over and over, "Why does one man choose God and another not?" If we're all fallen and none of us seeks the face of God, what makes the difference?

The Calvinist would say the difference is God's choice. God chooses to open hardened hearts to His gracious gift of faith.

And if we are among the fortunate recipients, we will (eventually) realize it and do God's bidding, happily, thankfully, confidently.

[JesseShurun]

Paul had no excuse for his actions, as he was taught better, same as a Christian who gets up from Wednesday night prayer and decides to kill Muslims. That is not God's will for either.

Again, her question is moot: man cannot choose God

[JesseShurun]

If Paul had been righteous,he could have just as easily asked God to reveal the truth of Christianity to him before he joined the stoning crowd, and as God did purpose to use him as an apostle, Paul could have avoided the sin of murder. God did not need Paul's sins to accomplish his purposes.