Christ brings none to the Father, but those given him by the Father; and this donation, we know, depends on eternal election; for those whom the Father has destined to life, he delivers to the keeping of his Son, that he may defend them. This is what he says by John, “All that the Father hath given me, will come to me.” (John 6:37.) That we then submit to God by the obedience of faith, let us learn to ascribe this altogether to his mercy; for otherwise we shall never be led to him by the hand of Christ. Besides, this doctrine supplies us with strong ground of confidence; for who can tremble under the guidance and protection of Christ? who, while relying on such a keeper and guardian, would not boldly disregard all dangers? And doubtless, when Christ says, “Behold, I and the children,” he really fulfils what he elsewhere promises, that he will not suffer any of those to perish whom he has received from the Father. (John 10:28.)
John Calvin | Commentary on the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Hebrews, trans. John Owen (Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2010), 70.
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Tony Phelps
Tony grew up in Rhode Island. He was educated at BA (University of Rhode Island) and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He worked in the insurance industry for ten years. He planted a PCA church in Wakefield, RI where he served for eleven years. In 2015–18 he pastored Covenant Reformed Church (URCNA) in Colorado Springs. He is currently pastor of Living Hope (OPC). Tony is married to Donna and together they have three children.
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It never ceases to stop me in my tracks when I ponder, I mean really think of the mercy shown to me, a sinner. The promise given and the means of fullfilling this promise is staggering, that a One such as this would even give a second glance. Yet from the beginning, His thought was of Him, saving from hell, a worm such as me. I am crushed at this reality.