Calvinism

Definition

Calvinism is a major branch of Protestant Christianity, developed by the influential theologian John Calvin in the 16th century. It emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the doctrine of predestination, which holds that God has already determined the eternal fate of each individual, either for salvation or damnation, regardless of their actions or choices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calvinism is based on the theological principles of John Calvin, a 16th-century French reformer and theologian.
2. The key tenet of Calvinism is the doctrine of predestination, which states that God has already determined the eternal fate of each individual.
3. Calvinists believe in the concept of 'total depravity,' which holds that humans are completely unable to save themselves or contribute to their own salvation due to the effects of original sin.
4. Calvinists believe in 'irresistible grace,' which means that God's saving grace cannot be rejected by those whom He has chosen for salvation.
5. Calvinism emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the belief that God is in complete control of all events and outcomes.

Review Questions

• Explain how the Calvinist doctrine of predestination relates to the concept of free will.
  • The Calvinist doctrine of predestination, which holds that God has already determined the eternal fate of each individual, is in direct conflict with the idea of free will. According to Calvinism, humans do not have the ability to freely choose their own salvation or damnation, as God has already predetermined these outcomes. This belief challenges the traditional understanding of free will, as Calvinists believe that God's sovereignty and control over all events and outcomes supersedes the ability of individuals to make autonomous decisions about their spiritual destiny.
• Analyze the Calvinist concept of 'total depravity' and its implications for human agency and moral responsibility.
  • The Calvinist belief in 'total depravity' suggests that due to the effects of original sin, humans are completely unable to save themselves or contribute to their own salvation. This belief has significant implications for the understanding of human agency and moral responsibility. If humans are inherently depraved and incapable of making righteous choices, it raises questions about the extent to which they can be held morally accountable for their actions. The Calvinist perspective challenges the traditional notions of free will and moral responsibility, as it places the ultimate control and determination of an individual's fate in the hands of God, rather than the individual.
• Evaluate the Calvinist emphasis on the sovereignty of God and its potential impact on the relationship between the individual and the divine.
  • The Calvinist emphasis on the sovereignty of God, which holds that God is in complete control of all events and outcomes, can have a significant impact on the relationship between the individual and the divine. By asserting that God's will and predetermined plan supersede the autonomy and agency of the individual, Calvinism can potentially create a sense of fatalism and diminish the individual's sense of personal responsibility and empowerment in their spiritual journey. This may lead to a more passive and submissive relationship with God, where the individual feels they have little to no control over their own salvation or spiritual development. Conversely, the Calvinist emphasis on God's sovereignty may also foster a deep sense of awe, reverence, and dependence on the divine, as individuals recognize the limitless power and control of God over their lives.

Related terms

Predestination: The belief that God has already determined the eternal fate of each individual, either for salvation or damnation, before they are born.

Total Depravity: The belief that due to the effects of original sin, humans are completely unable to save themselves or contribute to their own salvation.

Irresistible Grace: The belief that God's saving grace is irresistible and cannot be rejected by those whom God has chosen for salvation.