One of the dirty little secrets of Calvinism is that it really does make God the author of sin. In "The Doctrine of God" by John M. Frame, John Calvin is quoted (p.177) as saying: "But how it was ordained by the foreknowledge and decree of God what man's future was without God being the author and approver of transgression, is clearly a secret so much excelling the insight of the human mind, that I am not ashamed to confess ignorance." John Frame declares (p.176), "it seems to me that it is not wrong to say that God causes evil and sin." In another place (p.65), Frame states, "God does in fact bring about the sinful behavior of human beings, whatever problems that may create in our understanding." Yet James 1:13 states, "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man." It all boils down to whom we believe: God or man. Who do you believe?
Mathematics can be quite complex, yet one of the most basic divisions of mathematics is called arithmetic. You may better grasp what I am talking about when I say that the most basic operations of arithmetic are addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. A grasp of these basic operations is a necessity for anyone who desires to grasp any of the more complex divisions of mathematics. Interestingly enough, the same things hold true for the Christian life. It can be quite complex, but at the same time we could break it down to the simplicity of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Inside of your mouth lies one of the most dangerous weapons ever used by mankind. It has destroyed friends, families, churches and peoples. It is such a little member, but it packs a wicked punch. That member is your tongue. It ought to be used to praise the Lord and spread His word, but is most often used to devour others and spread gossip. This member of yours is so dangerous that the Bible likens it to a sharp sword or razor (Psalm 52:2; Psalm 57:4; Psalm 59:7; Psalm 64:3), to a serpent (Psalm 140:3), and to a fire (James 3:5-6). Perhaps we ought to pray like David when he said, "Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips." (Psalm 141:3).
