There is a problem in this line of reasoning.
God gave me eyes to see, a brain to think, ears to hear, so everything I do is a gift
from God.
I have argued our response to God is legitimate response on our part, but in a sense
the start is just that.
If we accept we are born again, and then gain light to our soul, in the parable of the
seed and the sower, if we do not feed or open up our hearts properly or put the right
priniciples into practice our faith will die.
So to accept salvation is not a choice, then we can choose to leave or not apply things
that continue us in life. If we cannot do this then this is a prison camp with no
reprieve, one we are set up for and will go along with no matter what.
This seems to mitigate against the Lords heart and His ways of dealing with man throughout
scripture. Rather we choose all the way along, and like a good friend, He tests we have really
learnt what we need to learn.
I can see this theology of not choice to be saved, but the ability to walk away, puts the
requirement for us to respond and walk which some might argue is maintaining our salvation
through our efforts. But unless there is no will involved, what is salvation other than a
factory production line, and justice a farce for show, when all along God chooses.
The cross is saying something very different. Astounding love to purchase a people unto His
will and calling. Maybe choice along the way is always nuanced, and though at the start dark
it still is a legitimate choice. So the thief on the cross could exercise faith as far as he could
see, and it be counted as faith within the context of where he was and what was happening.