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How Do We Rectify That God Wants All Saved but Most Will Not Be?

Q: Going back to a question you had a few months ago. I think it was taken in the context of Universalism, but it may have been meant more in free will versus predestination if God‘s will is that all are saved, and we know the Bible also says most will not be saved, how do we rectify those two things? Is it because we are given the option of accepting the work that God did for salvation? or else why is his will not being brought about since he is omnipotent? Is it like he wants everyone to be saved but he wants something else (glory, justice etc) more so he doesn’t bring that about?

Summary

Election and predestination are clearly taught in Scripture — whether we like them or not. In this episode, Dr. E tackles a difficult theological tension: If God desires all to be saved, why aren’t all saved?

This question centers on passages like 2 Peter 3:9 and 1 Timothy 2:4, which say God desires all to come to repentance, alongside Jesus’ words that many take the wide path to destruction. Dr. Easley explains that this is not a contradiction to “correct,” but a tension to hold. The Bible teaches both God’s sovereign election (Ephesians 1) and a universal call to salvation.

Dr. Easley distinguishes between God’s desire that all repent and His will that those who believe will certainly receive eternal life (John 6:40). The offer of salvation is open to all. Christ died for all. But not all respond in faith.

Rather than forcing a philosophical solution, Dr. Easley embraces the biblical tension. From our limited perspective, we cannot fully reconcile divine sovereignty and human responsibility. From God’s eternal perspective, His will is perfect and unchanging.

The focus of Scripture is not a capricious God sending people to hell — but a holy God who lovingly saves sinners through Christ.

Takeaways:

• Election and predestination are clearly taught in Scripture and cannot be ignored.
• God desires all to come to repentance, but not all will respond in faith.
• Salvation is offered universally, but it is applied to those who believe.
• Divine sovereignty and human responsibility exist in tension.
• God is not capricious or eager to condemn; He is patient and merciful.
• From our limited perspective we see tension; from God’s eternal perspective, His will is perfect.

Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here.

If you’ve got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.