If anyone under suspicion for FV points out that he believes, confesses, and preaches Reformed theology, imputation, sola fide, double predestination and all the rest, he is accused of “redefining” the meaning of these words and hiding behind a “smokescreen.” (smokescreen is a technical theological term in Presbyterian jargon for a request for a fair trial) On the other hand, if he points out that in Paul’s letters professing baptized Christians are generally regarded as and told that they are justified, sanctified, adopted, etc–even though it is said at the outset that the Bible is using these terms somewhat differently than we use them when defining the ordo salutis, these same people are accused of saying some reprobate participate in “saving benefits” of the “ordo.” Suddenly they are not redefining anything but only allowed to speak perfect Westminsterese.

Heads we win; tails you lose.