Renewing Your Mind Podcast Summary
Episode: Stumbling Stones and Living Stones
Host/Author: Ligonier Ministries (Preaching by R.C. Sproul)
Release Date: July 20, 2025
1. Introduction to Divine Sovereignty and Predestination
In this compelling episode, R.C. Sproul delves into the profound theological concepts of predestination, exploring both election and reprobation. He begins by asserting God's sovereign choice in bestowing saving grace upon some while permitting others to follow their own desires, ensuring that divine justice remains uncompromised.
"God chose sovereignly to bestow his saving grace on some, but to allow the others to do what they pleased to do, and God simply passed them over so that nobody in this equation is subjected to divine injustice."
— R.C. Sproul [00:00]
Sproul emphasizes that those redeemed receive grace, whereas those not received are subject to justice, addressing the inherent fairness in God's divine plan.
2. The Dual Nature of Predestination: Election and Reprobation
Sproul elaborates on the double aspect of predestination, drawing parallels with Paul's discussions in Romans 9, particularly the contrasting destinies of Jacob and Esau. He clarifies misconceptions surrounding reprobation, distancing the Reformed doctrine from the notion that God predestines individuals to sin with the intent of damnation.
"The doctrine teaches that God's decrees of election and reprobation are given before the fall, that is from the foundation of the world, but in light of the fall, it is not as if from all eternity God considers an unfallen innocent humanity, out of which he destines some for salvation and others to damnation."
— R.C. Sproul [05:15]
Sproul addresses the destinare ad pacitum theory, rejecting it as contrary to Reformed theology, and underscores that God's election and reprobation are rooted in His sovereign choice, not in Him designing humanity for sin.
3. Addressing Criticisms of Divine Sovereignty
Responding to common objections, Sproul discusses the perceived unfairness of God's selective grace. He contends that such criticisms reveal the stubbornness of the human heart towards recognizing God's majesty and sovereignty.
"When we complain about God's sovereign grace in salvation, we see how gracious that salvation really is. Because when we complain, we reveal how obstinate our hearts are towards the majesty and sovereignty of God."
— R.C. Sproul [10:42]
He reassures listeners that those who reject Christ are destined for judgment due to their unbelief and disobedience, aligning with Peter's portrayal of Christ as a "stone of offense."
4. The Chosen Generation and Royal Priesthood
Transitioning to the believers' identity, Sproul highlights Peter's declaration of Christians as a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation. He shares a personal anecdote about being greeted with "I'm blessed," illustrating the tangible experience of living out this privileged status.
"We are a blessed people, people who have received the riches of God's grace in our lives."
— R.C. Sproul [15:30]
Sproul connects this identity to Luther's understanding of the priesthood of all believers, further qualifying it as a royal priesthood that serves under Christ's kingship.
5. Union of Kingship and Priesthood in Christ
Exploring the unique role of Jesus, Sproul discusses how Christ embodies both king and high priest, a combination unprecedented in the Old Testament. He references the Book of Hebrews to explain Jesus' priesthood of the Melchizedek order, superior to the Levitical priesthood, thus fulfilling both roles divinely.
"Jesus supremely is the king priest apart from Melchizedek. He is our king who prays for us."
— R.C. Sproul [19:50]
Sproul underscores that this union of kingship and priesthood sets Christians apart, enabling them to partake in both governance and intercession within God's kingdom.
6. Citizenship in a Heavenly Nation
Sproul contrasts the instability of earthly nations, using Israel's historical dispersion as a backdrop, with the eternal and secure citizenship believers hold in God's heavenly kingdom. He emphasizes that this spiritual nationality transcends geopolitical boundaries, inviting Christians to identify primarily with a holy nation.
"We are a people who are citizens of a holy nation created by God, His own special people."
— R.C. Sproul [22:10]
This heavenly citizenship calls believers to view their lives as pilgrims on earth, focused on their ultimate home and mission in proclaiming God's praises.
7. Call to Proclamation and Praise
Concluding his sermon, Sproul exhorts Christians to actively proclaim God's praises, likening it to offering a "sacrifice of praise." He envisions believers living in continual worship, mirroring the eternal praise of angels and archangels.
"We offer to him the sacrifice of praise so that the praise of God should be on our lips every moment."
— R.C. Sproul [23:45]
Sproul calls for a life of worship and proclamation, reinforcing the believers' role as a royal priesthood dedicated to honoring God through their words and actions.
Conclusion
In "Stumbling Stones and Living Stones," R.C. Sproul masterfully intertwines deep theological doctrines with practical applications for believers. He affirms the secure position of Christians as chosen and royal, while addressing the solemn reality of God's justice for the reprobate. The episode serves as both a theological exploration and an encouragement to live out one's divine identity with grace and proclamation.
Notable Quotes:
- "God chose sovereignly to bestow his saving grace on some, but to allow the others to do what they pleased to do..." — R.C. Sproul [00:00]
- "We are a blessed people, people who have received the riches of God's grace in our lives." — R.C. Sproul [15:30]
- "We offer to him the sacrifice of praise so that the praise of God should be on our lips every moment." — R.C. Sproul [23:45]
This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from R.C. Sproul's sermon on Stumbling Stones and Living Stones, offering a comprehensive overview for those who have not listened to the episode.