Calvinism

Definition

Calvinism is a major branch of Protestant Christianity that follows the theological teachings of John Calvin, emphasizing the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the necessity of grace through faith. This belief system greatly influenced religious practices and societal norms in the 16th and 17th centuries, and it laid the groundwork for various movements, including the Great Awakening, where fervent religious revivalism echoed Calvinist principles. The ideas of predestination and the importance of a personal relationship with God are central to Calvinist thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calvinism gained prominence during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, particularly in Geneva under John Calvin's leadership.
2. The Five Points of Calvinism, often summarized by the acronym TULIP (Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace, and Perseverance of the saints), outline core beliefs that differentiate Calvinism from other Christian traditions.
3. Calvinism's emphasis on personal faith and moral responsibility had a significant impact on social structures and community life in early America.
4. John Edwards, a prominent preacher during the Great Awakening, incorporated Calvinist ideas into his sermons, stressing themes like sin, grace, and the necessity for personal conversion.
5. Calvinist beliefs contributed to the development of a distinct American identity characterized by values such as hard work, frugality, and a strong sense of community.

Review Questions

• How did Calvinism influence the religious landscape during the Great Awakening?
  • Calvinism played a crucial role in shaping the religious fervor of the Great Awakening by emphasizing personal salvation and a direct relationship with God. Preachers like Jonathan Edwards highlighted themes of sin and grace that resonated deeply with audiences seeking spiritual renewal. The focus on predestination also encouraged individuals to introspect on their faith and strive for a sincere connection with God, fueling widespread revivals.
• In what ways did John Calvin's teachings impact Jonathan Edwards' philosophical works and sermons?
  • John Calvin's teachings heavily influenced Jonathan Edwards' approach to theology and preaching. Edwards adopted Calvinist doctrines such as predestination and total depravity, which were central themes in his sermons. He argued that human beings are wholly dependent on God's grace for salvation, a notion that led him to emphasize the urgency of personal conversion and spiritual awakening in his congregation. This alignment with Calvinist thought allowed Edwards to effectively communicate complex theological concepts to his audience during the Great Awakening.
• Evaluate the lasting implications of Calvinism on American culture and identity through its influence on early religious movements.
  • Calvinism significantly shaped American culture by instilling values like hard work, self-discipline, and community responsibility. Its emphasis on individual faith translated into a broader cultural ethos that encouraged personal accountability and moral integrity. This influence can be traced through various religious movements in early America, which adopted Calvinist principles to advocate for social reforms. The legacy of Calvinism continues to be felt today in American society's focus on individual rights and responsibilities within a community context.

Related terms

Predestination:

The doctrine that God has eternally chosen those whom he intends to save, which is a key concept in Calvinist theology.

Sovereignty of God:

The belief that God is supreme in power and authority, controlling all aspects of the universe, which is a fundamental tenet of Calvinism.

Reformed Tradition: A branch of Protestantism that traces its roots back to Calvinism and emphasizes the doctrines of grace and covenant theology.