Episode Details

In this episode Lance Smith examines an apparent Bible difficulty: Jesus says he gave his life as a ransom for many, while Paul says Christ purchased freedom for everyone. He explains how different authors emphasize different facets of the same truth, explores Calvinist and Arminian perspectives, and presents the idea that the atonement can be sufficient for all yet effective for those who believe.

The episode also discusses God's foreknowledge and human free will with a clear illustration, then highlights practical implications for evangelism and personal assurance.

References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:

buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith 

The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website

The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page

Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 

1. Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/ransom.html 
2. Frank Turek video: “If God knows our choices before we make them, are we truly free?” https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1221904213172171 
3. Veritas Domain. “Bible Contradiction? Was Jesus a ransom for many or a ransom for all?” November 13, 2020. https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/bible-contradiction-was-jesus-a-ransom-for-many-or-a-ransom-for-all/
4. GotQuestions.org. “Limited Atonement – Is it Biblical?” https://www.gotquestions.org/limited-atonement.html
5. GotQuestions.org. “Is the Atonement of Christ Unlimited?” https://www.gotquestions.org/unlimited-atonement.html
6. GotQuestions.org. “What does it mean that Jesus came to give His life as a ransom for many?” https://www.gotquestions.org/give-His-life-as-a-ransom-for-many.html
7. Kayser, Phillip G. “Ransom Paid: Does the Bible Limit the Atonement?” Biblical Blueprints. https://biblicalblueprints.com/Booklets/Ransom-Paid
8. Allen, David L. “Yes, Jesus Did Die for [the Sins of] Everyone!” https://drdavidlallen.com/yes-jesus-did-die-for-the-sins-of-everyone/
9. Piper, John. “Isn’t Unlimited Atonement More Glorious Than Limited Atonement?” Desiring God. https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/isnt-unlimited-atonement-more-glorious-than-limited-atonement
10. Wilkin, Bob. “Is Jesus the Ransom for Many or for All? (Matthew 20:28).” Faith Alone. https://faithalone.org/blog/is-jesus-the-ransom-for-many-or-for-all-matthew-2028/