Which is correct: Calvinism or Arminianism? Definition and Scope Calvinism and Arminianism are two theological frameworks that aim to explain how salvation unfolds in a believer’s life and how the sovereignty of God interacts with human responsibility. Both viewpoints maintain that salvation is through faith in Christ, that Scripture is authoritative, and that God’s grace is central. However, they differ in how they present God’s initiative in salvation, human free will, and the security of the believer. Historical Background Calvinism is chiefly associated with the teachings of the reformer John Calvin (1509–1564). Its famous “Five Points” are often remembered by the acronym TULIP: Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints. Much of the Calvinist system traces back to the Synod of Dort (1618–1619), convened in response to the rise of Arminian ideas. Arminianism is traced to Jacobus Arminius (1560–1609), a Dutch theologian who questioned certain Calvinist doctrines. His followers formulated the “Five Articles of the Remonstrants,” emphasizing conditional election and the possibility that one could fall away from grace. While Arminianism upholds God’s sovereignty, it places a stronger emphasis on human free will and responsibility in responding to God’s call. Core Distinctions 1. Human Nature and Free Will - Calvinism teaches that, due to the Fall (Genesis 3:6–7; Romans 5:12), every person is so profoundly affected by sin that one cannot, of one’s own volition, choose God. Instead, God must sovereignly regenerate an individual’s heart first. - Arminianism likewise acknowledges humanity’s sinful state but asserts that God grants “prevenient grace” (or “enabling grace”) to all, allowing individuals the genuine ability to accept or reject salvation. 2. Election - Calvinism posits “Unconditional Election,” holding that God sovereignly chooses certain individuals for salvation apart from any foreseen merit or decision on their part (Ephesians 1:4–5: “For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence…”). - Arminianism teaches “Conditional Election,” which suggests that God, in His foreknowledge, elects those He knows will freely respond in faith. 3. Atonement - Calvinists maintain “Limited Atonement” (or “Particular Redemption”), believing Christ’s death was intended specifically to redeem those the Father chose. - Arminians stand for a “General Atonement,” teaching that Christ died for every person, though only those who believe receive the saving benefit (1 John 2:2). 4. Grace and Salvation - In Calvinism, grace is “Irresistible,” so when God effectively calls someone to salvation, that person inevitably comes (John 6:44: “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him…”). - Arminianism teaches that grace, though offered, can be resisted (Acts 7:51), and the acceptance of saving grace depends on individual choice. 5. Perseverance and Security - Calvinists teach “Perseverance of the Saints,” holding that those truly chosen and regenerated will persevere to the end (John 10:28–29). - Arminians differ among themselves: Classical Arminians commonly contend that believers can forfeit their salvation if they commit apostasy, while some Evangelical Arminians affirm eternal security with conditions. Key Scriptures • Ephesians 1:4–5: “For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ…” • Romans 8:29–30: “For those God foreknew, He also predestined…And those He predestined He also called; those He called He also justified…” • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” • 1 John 2:2: “He Himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” • Acts 7:51: “You stiff-necked people with uncircumcised hearts…You always resist the Holy Spirit!” These passages have been interpreted variously, which gives rise to the distinct viewpoints of Calvinism and Arminianism. Points of Convergence Both Calvinists and Arminians agree on the essentials: • Humanity’s need for a Savior due to sin (Romans 3:23). • Salvation only through faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross. • Scripture’s authority and God’s sovereignty. • The necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit for genuine spiritual life. • The believer’s ultimate purpose to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Pastoral and Practical Considerations Those exploring whether Calvinism or Arminianism is “correct” often raise pastoral questions: • How does one preach the gospel if salvation is predestined? • Does human choice matter if God decides all things in advance? • Can a believer find assurance of salvation if there is a possibility of falling away? In Calvinistic churches, assurance is often grounded in the certainty that God’s elect cannot be lost. In Arminian settings, believers are encouraged to remain in faith and obedience, leaning on God’s sustaining grace. Both sides counsel trust in God’s promises, commitment to Scripture, and active evangelism. Influence on Evangelism and Mission Calvinism highlights God’s initiative, leading some to a passion for missions, believing that God guarantees success among the elect. Arminianism underscores human willingness in responding to the gospel, motivating believers to share Christ with all, confident that anyone is capable of responding to God’s offer of salvation. Whether one identifies with Calvinism or Arminianism, the responsibility to witness remains paramount. As the apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 4:2: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season…” Implications for Unity In many denominational and local church contexts, both perspectives coexist. Harmony is often sought by focusing on the overarching truths of sinful humanity’s desperate need for God’s grace and the power of Christ’s resurrection. While debates can become heated, believers on both sides typically affirm that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8–9). Answering “Which is Correct?” Throughout history, sincere Christians have embraced both Calvinism and Arminianism. Scripture includes passages emphasizing divine sovereignty and others highlighting human responsibility. Some find a balance, sometimes labeled “infralapsarian,” “Amyraldian,” or “moderate Calvinism,” while others prefer purely Arminian language reflective of human cooperation with grace. The unifying anchor is the bedrock truth that God is the author and finisher of faith (Hebrews 12:2). Trust in Christ’s atoning work and reliance on the Holy Spirit are unwavering themes in both systems. Focus on Christ and the Gospel Ultimately, the question “Which is correct: Calvinism or Arminianism?” often converges on personal conviction shaped by one’s reading of Scripture, guidance of the Holy Spirit, and church tradition. Yet the heart of the gospel remains: Jesus Christ—crucified and resurrected—purchases redemption for sinners and offers eternal life. Romans 10:9 states, “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Conclusion Calvinism and Arminianism both seek to honor God’s nature and Word. Although they differ in how they parse out certain doctrines of grace, they share the foundational confessions: Christ alone is Savior, and Scripture points the way to eternal life. The best approach may be to study the Scriptures diligently—prayerfully weighing texts that emphasize God’s sovereign choice alongside those commanding personal responsibility. In the end, regardless of one’s alignment, the believer’s ultimate purpose remains to glorify God in all things, stand firm in the faith, and proclaim the message of salvation. As Philippians 2:12–13 compellingly reminds us, “continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.” |
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