What a mind boggling question...<img src="/forum/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> On one hand I'd like to think, "how could God damn the infant, young child and mentally retarded," and on the other hand if I take my first thought to its logical extreme I would also ask, "so then how could God damn the immature young adult, middle-aged, or lil' ole grandma who were never regenerate but were "good people"."

All I can say is that if I believe the Scriptures and the sovereignty, justice, righteousness, wisdom and yes, even the goodness of God, then I must conclude that it is His choice. ..."So, then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God who has mercy." Romans 9:16 ESV and if I question am confused about or question God's justice then,

"But who are you, O' man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, "Why have you made me like this?" Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honored use and another for dishonorable use?" Romans 9:20-21 ESV

These are hard words but they are truth and once again I think we find the case that to the child of God, the doctrine of Election/Predestination/God's Sovereign Choice (or whatever you like to call it) is a doctrine received and proclaimed in utmost humility. It is not a doctrine which shows the unfairness of God but rather His grace and mercy as we understand it in the light of His holiness...and may I understand its depth and truth more and more.

tj
"-that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection..."