John Gill discusses the dialogue of Minutius Felix, emphasizing the early Christian understanding of predestination and the concept of election. He highlights the objections raised by Caecilius, a heathen, regarding the perceived injustice of God in punishing individuals based on fate rather than free will. Gill explains that the early Christians believed in a doctrine of predestination that aligned with God's foreknowledge and grace, asserting that conversion to Christianity was not by free will but through divine election. He also addresses the historical context of these beliefs and their implications for understanding God's justice and mercy. Ultimately, Gill defends the notion that God's decrees are just and rooted in His omniscience.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Basil the Great on the doctrine of predestination, emphasizing that all events are foreordained by God and nothing occurs by chance. Basil asserts that every aspect of life, including the duration of one's existence, is determined by God's will, and he highlights the predestination of certain individuals to eternal salvation. He references scripture to illustrate that the elect are a distinct group chosen by God, blessed with the promise of everlasting life. Gill underscores the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in all matters and the special status of the elect among humanity.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Gregory Nazianzenus, emphasizing the doctrine of predestination and the divine grace necessary for belief and confession of faith. Gregory, a contemporary of Basil and a significant figure in early Christianity, asserts that true belief in God is a gift from Him, and he highlights the importance of a small number of faithful individuals over the multitude who deny God's deity. Gill notes Gregory's acknowledgment of a book of life and the concept of divine election, suggesting that God chooses certain individuals for salvation, regardless of their number. The sermon reflects on the significance of God's grace and the assurance of salvation for the elect, as well as the dangers of straying into heretical beliefs about the pre-existence of souls.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Justin Martyr, emphasizing God's eternal prescience and predestination. Justin asserts that God foreknows the choices of individuals regarding faith and repentance, and that salvation is prepared for some while others face judgment due to their own choices. He clarifies that God's foreknowledge does not compel individuals to sin, and that all have the opportunity to seek God's mercy. Justin's writings highlight the elect as a chosen people from all nations, reinforcing the idea of divine selection and grace. This sermon underscores the balance between God's sovereignty and human free will.

John Gill discusses the life and teachings of Ignatius, the bishop of Antioch, emphasizing his writings that reflect on predestination and the eternal purpose of God. Ignatius highlights the distinction between those chosen by God and those destined for destruction, illustrating the grace that leads the elect to their appointed place in the kingdom. His epistles convey deep theological insights, including the nature of Christ's Deity and the perseverance of the saints, while also recounting the martyrdom of Polycarp, showcasing the stark contrast between the faithful and the unfaithful.

John Gill discusses Tertullian's contributions to the understanding of predestination, emphasizing his insights into the doctrines of election and reprobation. Tertullian, an early Christian writer from Carthage, highlights the importance of the church as the body of Christ and the necessity of distinguishing between the elect and the reprobate. He suggests that God's judgment involves both salvation and punishment, and that election cannot exist without reprobation. Despite some ambiguity in Tertullian's writings regarding the role of human works in election, Gill clarifies that these should be understood within the broader context of divine providence. Ultimately, Tertullian's reflections invite deeper contemplation on the nature of faith and God's sovereignty.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Cyril of Jerusalem regarding predestination and election, emphasizing that there are distinct elect individuals chosen by God. He highlights Cyril's assertion that the elect will be gathered by angels and will not be mixed with enemies, illustrating the divine selection process. Gill also notes Cyril's acknowledgment of the Holy Spirit's role in sanctifying those written in the book of life, affirming the connection between God's choice, Christ's redemption, and the Spirit's sanctification.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Clement of Alexandria, emphasizing his views on predestination and the election of believers. Clement, who transitioned from a heathen philosopher to a Christian presbyter, articulated the doctrine of election, asserting that God predestines individuals to salvation before the foundation of the world. He highlights that the elect are a distinct group chosen by God, and that their understanding of scripture is divinely revealed. Gill notes that Clement's writings reflect a belief in God's sovereignty in salvation, while also acknowledging the complexities of free will in his philosophical background.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Clement of Rome, emphasizing the doctrine of predestination and the elect of God. He highlights Clement's affirmation that God's will is sovereign and immutable, asserting that all things are accomplished according to His purpose. Gill notes that Clement identifies a specific number of the elect and emphasizes the importance of love and unity among them. He also points out that spiritual blessings, including repentance, are reserved for the elect, and that God's election is through Jesus Christ. This sermon underscores the foundational Christian belief in God's sovereign choice and the assurance it brings to believers.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Hieronymus on predestination, emphasizing that election is not based on nations but on individual wills, and that those chosen by God were selected before the foundation of the world. Hieronymus argues that God's election is rooted in His love and mercy, rather than human holiness, and that predestination is aligned with God's foreknowledge without compromising human free will. He firmly opposes Pelagianism, asserting that God's grace is essential for salvation and that individuals are chosen to become holy through their faith and actions.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Hilarius Pictaviensis regarding predestination, emphasizing that God has a determinate number of elect individuals chosen for eternal glory. Hilary asserts that this election is an eternal act of God, referencing scripture to support the idea that believers are part of a mystical Israel, chosen before the foundation of the world. He highlights the distinction between those called and those chosen, suggesting that true election is based on merit and faithfulness. Gill underscores the importance of understanding this doctrine in the context of God's sovereignty and grace.

John Gill discusses Novatianus, a presbyter of Rome, who, despite some controversies regarding his views on apostasy and church communion, is recognized for his orthodox beliefs and his esteemed work on the Trinity. Novatianus emphasizes the doctrine of predestination, arguing that a significant number of individuals were chosen for glory before the foundation of the world, and he defends the deity and eternal glory of Christ, asserting that Christ's glory is not merely a result of predestination but a reality that existed before time. This understanding of predestination highlights the divine order and the significance of Christ's position in relation to humanity and the angels.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Athanasius, emphasizing his strong defense of the deity of Christ and the doctrines of predestination and election. Athanasius asserts that God's grace and salvation were prepared for humanity before the foundation of the world, highlighting the eternal purpose of God in Christ for our redemption. He argues that our calling and salvation are rooted in God's foreknowledge and will, demonstrating that the foundation of true religion predates the prophets and is established in Christ. Gill illustrates how Athanasius honors both the Father and the Son by affirming the eternal provision of grace and the deity of Christ, who undertook the work of salvation from eternity. This sermon serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereign plan for salvation and the assurance it brings to believers.

In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of glorification as a reward for completing the work assigned by God the Father. The ultimate thought of the whole process of salvation is seen as the electing love of God the Father. The Son came to fulfill the task given to him by the Father, as stated in various biblical passages. The sermon emphasizes the active and determinative nature of God's love, which moves towards the highest goal for the elect. The speaker briefly mentions other passages that support this understanding, such as Romans 8:29 and Romans 9.

John Gill discusses the theological contributions of Origen of Alexandria, particularly his views on predestination and the pre-existence of souls. He highlights Origen's belief that souls are predestined based on their previous actions, a notion that has been criticized and rejected by other theologians like Jerome. Gill emphasizes that while Origen's writings contain contradictions, he also affirms the concept of divine predestination and grace, asserting that God's election is based on His will rather than human merit. The sermon explores the complexities of Origen's thoughts and their implications for understanding God's sovereignty and human responsibility.

John Gill addresses the doctrine of predestination, defending it against Mr. Wesley's objections and clarifying its biblical basis. He emphasizes that predestination encompasses God's eternal decree regarding all things, including the election of certain individuals to salvation and the reprobation of others. Gill argues that election is unconditional and based solely on God's sovereign will, while reprobation serves to highlight God's justice. He critiques Wesley's arguments as lacking substance and failing to engage with the core biblical texts that support the doctrine of predestination. Ultimately, Gill asserts that understanding predestination is crucial for grasping the nature of God's grace and justice.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Caecilius Thascius Cyprianus, emphasizing the doctrine of predestination and the grace of God. Cyprian, an early church father and martyr, asserted that all gifts and obedience come from God, highlighting the importance of humility in recognizing that nothing is ours by merit. Gill notes that Cyprian's views align with Augustine's understanding of predestination, which emphasizes that believers are chosen by God and that their salvation is not based on their own works. The sermon reflects on the certainty of God's grace and the role of the Trinity in the process of salvation. Ultimately, it calls Christians to acknowledge their dependence on God's gifts and to live in accordance with His will.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Ambrose of Milan regarding predestination, emphasizing that Ambrose believed in God's sovereign choice in calling individuals to faith and salvation. He highlights Ambrose's assertion that while all are called, only the elect can truly perceive and respond to God's call. Gill notes that Ambrose maintained a balance between the assurance of salvation for the elect and the humility required for all believers, acknowledging the mystery of God's election. The sermon underscores the importance of grace in salvation, which is not based on human merit but on God's predestined plan. Ultimately, Gill affirms that Ambrose's teachings align with the biblical doctrine of predestination, offering comfort and security to the faithful.

John Wesley passionately preaches on the concept of Free Grace, emphasizing that God's love and grace are freely given to all, regardless of human merit or actions. He argues against the doctrine of predestination, asserting that it undermines the essence of Christian faith and the call to holiness, love, and good works. Wesley highlights that the belief in a predetermined fate for some to be saved and others to be damned contradicts the nature of God as loving and just. He calls for a return to the understanding that salvation is available to everyone who chooses to accept it, reinforcing the importance of preaching and the hope of redemption. Ultimately, Wesley's message is a clarion call to embrace the fullness of God's grace and to live out that grace in love and action.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Joannes Chrysostomus, emphasizing his belief in the doctrine of eternal predestination. Chrysostom interprets various scriptures to affirm that God has appointed certain individuals to eternal life, highlighting the divine foreknowledge and purpose behind God's choices. He explains that God's election is based on His knowledge of individuals' future actions and faith, illustrating the balance between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Gill notes that Chrysostom's views align with the understanding that God's decrees are made in accordance with His foreknowledge of grace. This sermon underscores the profound mystery of God's plan for salvation and the assurance it brings to believers.

In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and knowing God in order to truly worship Him. He explains that many Christians lack worship because they lack knowledge of God. The preacher then discusses the concept of predestination and how God works to make believers like Christ. He highlights that this process is initiated by God's will and is accomplished through the good pleasure of His will. The sermon concludes with a reading from Ephesians 1:1-6, emphasizing the blessings and adoption that believers have received through Christ.

In his sermon 'On Predestination', John Wesley explores the complex theological concept of predestination as articulated by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8:29-30. He emphasizes that God's foreknowledge does not dictate human free will, asserting that individuals are accountable for their choices and that salvation is available to all who believe. Wesley argues that God predestines those He foreknows as believers to be conformed to the image of His Son, and he outlines the sequential steps of salvation: foreknowledge, calling, justification, and glorification. He urges humility in discussing these profound mysteries, encouraging believers to focus on the assurance of salvation through faith rather than getting lost in theological debates.

John Gill discusses the teachings of Irenaeus, emphasizing his belief in God's predestination and the divine orchestration of all events for the benefit of His church. Irenaeus asserts that even the fall of man serves a purpose in God's plan, leading to the perfection of humanity and the manifestation of divine goodness. He highlights the preparation of eternal destinies based on God's foreknowledge, where those who seek the light are rewarded, while those who reject it face consequences. Gill notes Irenaeus's acknowledgment of a chosen number for eternal life and the immovability of God's election, illustrating the balance between divine sovereignty and human choice.

John Gill discusses the theological insights of Hilarius Diaconus regarding predestination, emphasizing that God's foreknowledge is not based on human merit but on His divine grace. He explains that Hilarius believed that God predestines individuals to eternal life based on His own decision to grant them faith and holiness. Gill clarifies that while some are chosen for salvation, others are not, and this distinction is rooted in God's sovereign will. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding predestination as a reflection of God's grace rather than human effort. Ultimately, Gill affirms that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human works.