It isn't? You are funny.
The very definition of the word "choice" means "the act of choosing".
Definitions of the word "act" mean to make the effort to produce an effect: "work". To "engage in the process of doing something". To "take action".
Effort: "Work"
To engage in the act of choosing, then, is to engage in a work.
You are one confused dude.
Now, in spite of what you said which prompted my response in #39, you have reversed yourself.
You are now back to disagreeing with what God says in Romans 9, and instead are saying:
"It DOES, therefore depend on man's desire or effort (the act of choosing), not on God's mercy."
God (the potter) does NOT have the perogative to take his lump of clay and to elect (make) some of it for a noble purpose and some of it for common use.
I am convinced you have a reading comprehension problem, since I said nothing like that at all.
You evidently believe there is no difference whatsoever between those who are saved and those who are not. Is that correct? If this is not correct, please tell us what difference there will be in those who are saved from those who are not.
Hank
Definitions of the word "act" mean to make the effort to produce an effect: "work". To "engage in the process of doing something". To "take action".
Matchett-PI, I am sure you do not really mean to imply you don't know the difference between a physical act, and the abstract use of the word when applied to cognitive or intellectual events. We also speak of people being in "deep thought" but know thought is not measure in inches of depth, and it not something you can get in and out of. The use of the work "act" with regard to any mental or intellectual process, such as choosing, is purely metaphorical. Any child knows that.
The Bible clearly distinguishes between "works" which are always overt physical actions, and faith, choice, and the heart, etc. which are all mental or intellectual processes. You have simply confused a metaphors with the material entitieis they are based on.
Now I have a couple of very simple question for you, if you are courageous enough to answer them. Is it possible to be saved without repentance and faith? Do you also consider faith, work? How about repentance?
Hank