Calvinism

Definition

Calvinism is a branch of Protestant theology developed by John Calvin in the 16th century, emphasizing the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the doctrine of predestination. It played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation and influenced various movements, contributing to the development of reformed churches and shaping modern Christianity's views on salvation and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Calvinism emerged as a prominent force during the Protestant Reformation, primarily through John Calvin's work in Geneva.
2. A key aspect of Calvinism is its distinct view on predestination, asserting that God has predetermined who will be saved.
3. Calvinists believe in the 'five points of Calvinism', often summarized by the acronym TULIP: Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints.
4. Calvinism significantly influenced political thought, advocating for the idea that civil authorities are also under God's rule and promoting concepts of governance that align with biblical principles.
5. Many modern reformed denominations, such as Presbyterians and Reformed Baptists, trace their theological roots back to Calvinism.

Review Questions

• How does Calvinism's view on predestination differ from other Protestant beliefs regarding salvation?
  • Calvinism's view on predestination emphasizes that God has already chosen who will be saved or damned, highlighting a lack of human agency in salvation. In contrast, other Protestant denominations may teach that individuals have the free will to accept or reject God's grace. This difference is significant as it shapes the overall understanding of salvation within Calvinism compared to more Arminian perspectives, which stress human choice.
• Analyze how Calvinism influenced both religious practices and societal governance in the regions where it spread.
  • Calvinism not only shaped religious practices through its emphasis on scripture and preaching but also had profound impacts on societal governance. In regions where Calvinist thought took root, such as Geneva and later parts of Scotland and America, it promoted ideas about a government accountable to God's authority. This led to the development of democratic principles and civil rights rooted in biblical teachings, influencing political systems in ways that emphasized moral responsibility among leaders.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Calvinism on modern Christian denominations and their theological frameworks.
  • The lasting impact of Calvinism can be seen in various modern Christian denominations, particularly within Reformed traditions such as Presbyterians and Congregationalists. Its theological frameworks have shaped contemporary discussions on grace, salvation, and church governance. Moreover, Calvinist principles like individual responsibility and an emphasis on scriptural authority continue to influence evangelical movements today. The rise of various reformist ideologies can also trace their lineage back to Calvinist thought, demonstrating its relevance in ongoing theological debates.

Related terms

Predestination: The theological concept that God has eternally chosen those who will be saved and those who will be damned, a key tenet in Calvinist belief.

Total Depravity: The belief that as a result of the Fall, every part of humanity is corrupted by sin, making individuals incapable of choosing God without divine intervention.

Sovereignty of God: The doctrine that God is supreme and has complete authority over creation, a foundational principle in Calvinist theology.