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In this comprehensive exploration, we will unravel the intricate tapestry of the Latter-day Saint doctrine of Pre-existence and its correlation with Romans 9:10-11. By examining the scriptural framework and historical context, we aim to unveil the profound harmony between these profound teachings, offering a greater appreciation for both the unity and diversity of God's eternal plan.
The recent discussion on how Latter-day Saint Christians reconcile the doctrine of Pre-existence with Romans 9:10-11 has sparked a lot of interest. This conversation took place in the LDS & Bible-believing Christian Discussion Group on Facebook. The individual who initially asked the question did not provide a doctrinal framework for their interpretation or perspective. It's assumed that this individual, who appears to be an admin for the group, may adhere to the doctrine of Predestination, which is held by proponents of Reformed theology, specifically Calvinism. The discussion and evidence presented aim to address how the doctrine of Pre-existence aligns with Romans 9:10-11.
The post includes actual screenshots from the group discussion alongside commentary. It's up to the reader to determine the validity and credibility of whether the original question was answered with sound and reasonable evidence.
Jon Clark:
"My understanding is that Mormon doctrine teaches that souls are eternal and live in a pre-existence prior to birth.
For people who believe this doctrine, how do you explain Romans 9:10-11?
"And not only that, but there was also Rebekah, when she had conceived twins by one man, our father Isaac; for though the twins were not yet born and had not done anything good or bad, so that God's purpose according to His choice would stand, not because of works but because of Him who calls."
My Response:
Simple, Paul is writing to Roman Christians who are Jews. He is reminding them of the covenants God had made with Abraham and then with Jacob, and then with Moses. God's choosing of making a Covenant with Jacob and not Esau had nothing to do with their volition. God already had purpose in establishing Israel as YHWH's inheritance (cf Deuteronomy 32:8-9). This covenant was to establish the chosen lineage through which the messiah will be birthed from. And this was already established in the Pre-existence and God's plan of redemption. Paul was well aware of the doctrine of the Pre-existence as a learned Pharisee and Jew. This is also encapsulated in the Babylonian Talmud and the Bereshit as to six things having either been created or come into existence prior to the creation of the world and humanity.
Jon Clark
Timothy Berman,
-- "Paul is writing to Roman Christians who are Jews."
Rome is and was a mix of cultures. Both Jews and Gentiles lived (and live) in Rome.
-- "He is reminding them of the covenants God had made with Abraham and then with Jacob, and then with Moses"
Where is God reminding anyone of the covenants in the passage I cited? There's literally no mention of any covenants anywhere.
-- "Paul was well aware of the doctrine of the pre-existence as a learned pharisee and jew."
An argument from silence.
-- "This is also encapsulated in the Babylonian Talmud and the Bereshit as to six things having either been created or come into existence prior to the creation of the world and humanity."
So? The Babylonian Talmud does what exactly to prove spiritual truth?
