If God Really Does Love Everyone Then Why Can’t He Accept Everyone?

Q: If God really does love everyone then why can’t He accept everyone? Can’t God do everything? — A.I.

A: There is one thing God’s love cannot do. It cannot forgive the unrepentant sinner. The human race is called on throughout the Bible to repent of sin and rebellion and return to God.

God accepts all those who repent and turn from sin. When they receive His salvation, God’s Spirit begins the work of transformation. We must all come to God on His terms, not our own. God showed His love to the whole world (John 3:16) by sending His Son to pay the penalty of our sin against Holy God. The Bible tells us that God loves those who love Him (Proverbs 8:17). Because of His love, there is a way of salvation, a way back to God through Jesus Christ, His Son.

The love of God can be entirely rejected. God will not force Himself upon anyone against their will. A person can hear a message about the love of God and say, “No, I won’t have it,” and God will let him go on in his or her sin to slavery and judgment.

However, if we really want to receive what God offers the world — His salvation from sin — we must accept it for ourselves. No one can do this for us. That’s the way God planned it from the beginning! The destiny of your own soul is in your own hands by the choice you make.

If you do not know Jesus Christ personally, if He has not changed your life, go to Him in prayer and He will meet you right where you are. Do it today.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.