Shasta
Well-known member
. . . . with a warning to them!!! How come Paul would include such a warning??
All that he wrote to them indicates that they were faithful believers. Warnings are only efficacious (1) if a negative outcome is possible and (2) if they have a mind, will, conscience and are able to make real choices in order to avod the negative outcome. If no negative consequences are possible then the warning is predicated upon deception. If we are incapable of responding to the warning then there is absolutely no point in giving it. From this I conclude that, though they were abiding in the Savior's life at the time, it was also possible for them to turn away. Paul's warnings are meant to motivate saints to stay the course and not turn aside.