# The First Main Point of Doctrine
## Divine Election and Reprobation
## Rejection of the Errors

8. Who teach that it was not on the basis of his just will alone that God decided to leave anyone in the fall of Adam and in the common state of sin and condemnation or to pass anyone by in the imparting of grace necessary for faith and conversion.

For these words stand fast: “He has mercy on whom he wishes, and he hardens whom he wishes” ([Rom. 9:18](/get-passage/Romans+9:18)). And also: “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given” ([Matt. 13:11](/get-passage/Matthew+13:11)). Likewise: “I give glory to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding, and have revealed them to little children; yes, Father, because that was your pleasure” ([Matt. 11:25–26](/get-passage/Matthew+11:25-26)).
