Predestination Isn’t the Problem—Silence Is

Since releasing my new book, I’ve had several people say, “Man, what a tough topic to tackle.” And I get it. I know many—especially Baptist pastors—who are terrified to even say the word Calvinism in their churches or among peers because of potential backlash.

To that I ask: Why?

What exactly are we so afraid of?

The common response is, “Well, most people in our congregation don’t like it, so I just avoid it altogether.” I understand the desire to steer clear of unnecessary controversy—but here’s the issue: the doctrines of predestination and election show up over 30 times in the Bible. If Scripture speaks about something that much, shouldn’t we at least be willing to talk about it?

The misunderstanding around these doctrines has created unnecessary panic and confusion. And because many pastors and church leaders avoid the topic out of fear, those who do understand these truths often feel like they have to tiptoe around them—worried they'll upset someone or stir up drama. As a result, we’re seeing a growing exodus of believers—especially from Southern Baptist and mainline Baptist churches—who are hungry for deeper theological teaching but can’t find it in their local congregation. How can I say that? Because I’ve sat down over coffee and dinner with several people who have personally asked for my advice as this very issue is unfolding in real time within their own churches.

They’re hungry to learn more, but their church leadership is too afraid of potential backlash from an uninformed congregation. In fact, several of the people I’ve met with are actively considering moving to churches where Reformed theology is not only embraced, but also taught and discussed openly through a biblical lens.

We need to stop treating biblical doctrines like they’re landmines. If God’s Word teaches something, we shouldn’t dance around it. We should embrace it. Not arrogantly, not divisively—but with humility, clarity, and boldness. And rather than spending hours online arguing about election or predestination, how about we get busy actually sharing the Gospel?

We need more pastors who can approach these doctrines with wonder and worship—not fear and avoidance.

Here’s something I’ve observed: those who panic the most over election and predestination are often the ones doing the least when it comes to evangelism. If the keyboard warriors who spend all their time attacking Calvinism would put that energy into sharing the Gospel and praying for lost souls, there’d be no time left to argue—they’d be too busy being effective for the Kingdom.

And instead of getting sideways over the idea that God is the one who chooses, how about responding with gratitude?

Be thankful that He opened your eyes to your sin and your need for Him—and then be the tool He uses to help your neighbor experience the same awakening.

That’s how we change our cities.

The Gospel is how transformation happens.

Biblical Calvinism, when rightly understood, is like a warm blanket.

Why?

Because you can’t lose. When you go out to share the Gospel, you win—regardless of the immediate outcome.

Why?

Because God does all the heavy lifting. He’s the one who saves. Your job is simply to obey—whether that’s planting the seed or watering it. As Paul said, “God gives the increase.”

So don’t waste your time arguing or making excuses.

Don’t waste your energy hiding.

Get out there and make disciples.

Be bold. Be faithful. Share Christ.

You’re not responsible for the harvest—just for being available.