Continued from Part 3
Avoiding Confusion of Terms
The articles written in this book often use the term "the elect" which can create some confusion. Unless otherwise specified, the term "the elect" is used as Calvinists define the term. They define "the elect" as those people Elohim (God) chose before the foundation of the world and predestined for salvation. This includes both those people who were born again, who now are born again, and also includes those people who are not yet born again but whom Elohim (God) chose to be born again and are predestined to ultimately be born again. It is important that you understand this concept when you read these articles.
Defining 'the Elect'
For Messianic Evangelicals, the true meaning of "the elect" is understood to be those people who become elect/chosen by virtue of their union with the Elect One, Yah'shua the Messiah (Jesus Christ), He who was chosen before the foundation of the world. No one else was chosen before creation but Him, and no one is chosen unless they become united with Christ who is the Chosen One. Hence, you as a reader must know when we are referring to "the elect" as Calvinists define the term, and when we are referring to "the elect" as we define the term. Whenever, the term "the elect" is used (coloured brown as opposed to purple), please assume it is being defined as Calvinists define it, and whenever you see the term "the chosen" used, please assume it is being defined as Messianic Evangelicals defines it.
Defining 'Total Depravity'
The same is true with the term "Total Depravity." When the term is used on this site it refers to "Total Depravity" as Calvinists define it, and not as other groups who also use this term. The distinctive Calvinist trait is that Total Depravity is defined as the inability to believe the gospel message. This is not how Arminians or others define the term and Messianic Evangelicals prefer to avoid using the term altogether as it is not found in the Bible and it tends to create the wrong idea.
Continued in Part 5
