The second hour of question-answering was conducted by Drs. Begg, Ferguson, Lawson, and Sproul fils; Sproul pere was supposed to be the moderator, but it will come as no surprise that he made one or two contributions.
1) What was Calvin's position on the classical arguments for God's existence, or did he think belief in God is basic [meaning foundational or axiomatic]? The implanted knowledge of God, related to his view of men as created in the image of God. It is impossible for man to escape divine revelation, so the knowledge of God is a given. Calvin taught an immediate revelation. Self awareness, per Augustine, brings an awareness of one's contingency and dependence. There is a distinction between proof and persuasion.
2) What does being "reformed" mean? The five solas, especially sola Scriptura, at the heart of which is the saving gospel.
3) How does Calvin's concept of piety differ from John Wesley's sanctification? Sanctification and glorification are tightly linked. Wesley was profoundly influenced by pietism, so have to beware of the excesses of that movement. Calvin placed emphasis on mortification and vivification. Wesley was more inward-focused.
4) Monergism vs. synergism. Sanctification is properly understood as synergistic but this is solely because we are new creations. Our salvation is predicated wholely on Christ and his righteousness. Our works count nothing for our justification but we will be rewarded because of our works. God crowning his own gifts (Augustine).
5) How to deal with a passive congregation with respect to expositional preaching. Recall that the Lord's preaching was not readily received. Reliance on the Spirit. Be faithful and accurate in your presentation of the word and then get out of the way.
6) Did Jesus have the ability to sin? There was no external binding on him to prevent sin, but he could no more sin than the Father can lie. Jesus has no desire to sin. His will is solely to do the will of his Father.
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