Predestination

Definition

Predestination is the theological doctrine that God has eternally chosen those whom He intends to save, leaving others to remain in their sinful state. This concept is central to Calvinism, where it emphasizes the sovereignty of God in the process of salvation, asserting that human actions cannot influence one's ultimate fate. This belief creates a distinct understanding of grace and faith within the Reformed tradition and significantly shaped the religious landscape during the spread of these ideas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Predestination is primarily associated with John Calvin's teachings in the 16th century, which became a cornerstone of Calvinist theology.
2. The belief in predestination led to a sense of assurance for believers, knowing that their salvation was secured by God's will rather than their own actions.
3. Predestination caused significant controversy during the Reformation, particularly in debates with Arminianism, which argued for free will in accepting grace.
4. In Calvinist communities, the doctrine influenced social behavior, leading to an emphasis on moral living as evidence of one's election.
5. The idea of predestination also contributed to the formation of a unique identity among Reformed traditions, distinguishing them from other Protestant groups.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of predestination distinguish Calvinism from other branches of Protestantism?
  • Predestination is a defining feature of Calvinism that sets it apart from other Protestant branches like Arminianism, which emphasizes free will. In Calvinism, predestination asserts that God has unchangeably determined who will be saved, emphasizing His sovereignty. This belief fosters a unique understanding of grace, where salvation is entirely a gift from God rather than a result of human effort or decision.
• Discuss the impact of predestination on social behavior and moral standards within Calvinist communities during the Reformation.
  • In Calvinist communities, the doctrine of predestination influenced members to live morally upright lives as a reflection of their assurance of salvation. Since one's election could not be changed by actions, believers sought to demonstrate their status through good works and ethical conduct. This led to a culture where personal discipline and societal responsibility were highly valued, creating a strong community ethos centered around shared beliefs.
• Evaluate how the debates surrounding predestination contributed to theological divisions within Christianity during the Reformation period.
  • The debates over predestination were central to theological divisions during the Reformation, particularly between Calvinists and Arminians. Calvinists maintained that God's sovereign choice dictated salvation without human intervention, while Arminians argued for human free will in accepting divine grace. These disagreements sparked broader discussions about grace, faith, and morality within Christianity, leading to lasting impacts on denominational identities and influencing various theological movements that emerged afterward.

Related terms

Calvinism:

A branch of Protestantism founded by John Calvin that emphasizes predestination, the absolute sovereignty of God, and the importance of scripture.

Election: The act of God choosing certain individuals for salvation, closely linked to the concept of predestination.

Sovereignty of God: The doctrine that God is the ultimate authority over all creation and that His will is supreme in all matters, including salvation.