Calvinism is a theological system named after John Calvin, one of the most influential theologians and Protestant Reformers of the 16th century. It emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the authority of the Bible in all matters of faith and practice. Some of the key tenets of Calvinism include:
Total Depravity
Calvinism teaches that due to the Fall and original sin, human nature is corrupted and inclined toward evil (Genesis 6:5, Jeremiah 17:9). Humans are unable and unwilling to seek God or do anything spiritually good in their fallen state (Romans 3:10-12). Every part of man—his mind, will, emotions, etc.—have been affected by sin. This does not mean that people are as evil as possible, but that every part of their being has been tainted and warped by sin. As such, no one can save themselves by their own merits, and all are in need of God’s grace for salvation.
This doctrine is supported by verses like Romans 3:23 that tell us “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Ephesians 2:1 also describes unregenerate humans as “dead in trespasses and sins.” The depravity of man is total in the sense that sin affects every area of his nature. People are not as bad as they could be, but every part of their being has been corrupted by sin.
Unconditional Election
Since man cannot save himself due to total depravity, God must take the initiative in salvation. Calvinism teaches that God unconditionally chose/elected some to be saved before the foundation of the world, not based on any foreseen faith or merit, but according to His sovereign will (Romans 9:15-16, Ephesians 1:4-6). Election is an act of God’s grace alone, completely apart from human works or merit.
This doctrine is supported by verses that teach election is according to God’s purpose and grace, not human works. Romans 9:11 says “though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad—in order that God’s purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls.” And Romans 8:29-30 teaches a chain of salvation starting with foreknowledge and predestination, not human choice.
Limited Atonement
Also called “particular redemption,” this doctrine teaches that Christ died to secure salvation only for the elect, not for all of humanity without exception. Though Christ’s sacrifice was sufficient to cover the sins of all, it was only efficient and intended for the elect (Isaiah 53:12, Matthew 1:21). This demonstrates the purpose of God’s sovereign election.
Support for this doctrine is found in verses stating Christ died for his sheep (John 10:11), for the church (Acts 20:28), for many but not all (Matthew 26:28). If Christ died for and took away the sins of all without exception, then all would be saved, which Scripture denies. The intent and purpose of the atonement must be in line with God’s election.
Irresistible Grace
This doctrine states that the inward call of the Holy Spirit always results in the salvation of the elect. God effectively calls and draws the elect to Christ, regenerating their hearts and giving them the ability to exercise faith in Christ (John 6:37, 44; Acts 16:14). This work of grace is effectual and cannot be resisted or thwarted.
Support for this doctrine is found in verses that teach God’s call results in salvation (Romans 8:30) and that God opens hearts to respond to the gospel (Acts 16:14). Left to themselves, none would seek God (Romans 3:11). But God circumcises hearts, resulting in willing obedience (Deuteronomy 30:6). God’s inward call awakens the elect unto salvation.
Perseverance of the Saints
This doctrine teaches that true believers can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace but will certainly persevere to the end (John 10:27-29, Philippians 1:6). Believers are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Some temporary falls into sin are possible, but do not constitute loss of salvation.
Supporting verses include promises that believers will never perish (John 10:28), nothing can separate them from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39), and God will complete the work he began (Philippians 1:6). While warnings of falling away can shock believers into persevering, the elect will never fully or finally fall from grace. Their faith and salvation are secured.
How Calvinism Views Other Doctrines
In addition to the main five points summarized above, Calvinism also holds to a high view of Scripture, believing the Bible is the authoritative, inerrant, sufficient Word of God. It teaches monergistic regeneration, meaning God alone works to quicken and regenerate dead sinners to spiritual life. This work of grace precedes and enables faith. Calvinism also has a high view of God’s glory, believing all things exist for His glory and pleasure.
Calvinists believe in justification by grace alone through faith alone, similar to all evangelical Protestants. Good works are seen as the fruit and evidence of true faith. Calvinism holds to infant baptism but rejects baptismal regeneration. The Lord’s supper is celebrated as a symbolic memorial of Christ’s sacrifice. Calvinists believe in amillennial eschatology, though postmillennialism has also been popular among Reformed thinkers.
Objections to Calvinism
The doctrines summarized above have been controversial throughout church history and are rejected by other evangelicals. Below are some common objections:
Total Depravity and Free Will
One objection is that total depravity undermines human freedom and responsibility. Some argue that a completely dead and corrupted human will cannot make free, accountable choices.
In response, Calvinists argue that free will does not require an unconditioned will. Humans still voluntarily choose according to their desires and motives, even if those inclinations are themselves sinful. Being enslaved by sin does not absolve people of responsibility for their choices.
Unconditional Election and Human Responsibility
Another objection is that unconditional election unto salvation negates human responsibility. If God alone chooses who will be saved by His sovereign choice, how can man be accountable for believing or rejecting the gospel?
Calvinists respond by arguing that no one deserves salvation, so God is free to have mercy on whomever He wills without being unjust. God’s sovereignty does not excuse human unbelief or remove accountability, since the outward call still goes to all to repent and believe. People reject this call of their own sinful will.
Limited Atonement and Unlimited Gospel Offer
Some argue that limited atonement contradicts the unlimited offer of the gospel. How can all be called to believe in Christ for salvation if Christ did not die for all? This seems to make the gospel offer insincere.
In response, Calvinists contend that the free gospel offer is completely sincere—all who repent and believe will be saved. The gospel can be offered to all since it is the means God uses to call His elect unto salvation. The secret things belong to God, the revealed belong to us.
Irresistible Grace and Human Freedom
Another objection argues that irresistible grace removes human freedom since the inward call of God cannot be refused. How can choosing Christ be a free choice if one cannot do otherwise?
Calvinists respond that free will does not require freedom to do otherwise. The will always chooses according to motivations and desires. When God regenerates someone, He changes their motivations so that they freely choose Christ. Prior to regeneration, no one would ever chose Christ on their own.
Perseverance and Warning Passages
Finally, some argue that if salvation cannot be lost, then passages warning believers about falling away are meaningless. Why warn them if apostasy is impossible?
Calvinists contend that these warnings have real meaning for believers. While they will never lose their salvation, they can make temporary falls into sin or decline in zeal. The warnings shock them out of complacency and scare them away from apostasy. God genuinely warns and calls them to persevere.
Analysis from Scripture
Having summarized the main doctrines of Calvinism and noted major objections, the next task is assessing these teachings in light of Scripture. Below is an analysis of the biblical evidence for and against Calvinism.
Case for Calvinism
There are certainly passages that seem to support Calvinistic doctrines like election (Romans 8:29-30; 9:11-13; Ephesians 1:4-6), the total depravity of man (Romans 3:10-18; Ephesians 2:1-3), and the purposeful intent and efficacy of the atonement (John 10:11-15; Ephesians 5:25). Other verses speak of God’s effectual calling (Romans 8:30; 2 Timothy 1:9), preserving grace (John 10:27-29; Jude 1:24-25), and the use of warnings to incite believers to continue in the faith (Hebrews 6:4-9). These passages argue in favor of Calvinism.
Case against Calvinism
However, there are also many Scriptures that seem difficult to reconcile with Calvinism, such as verses affirming human freedom and responsibility (Joshua 24:15; John 7:17; James 4:8), God’s universal love and desire for all to be saved (John 3:16; 1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9), the universality of the gospel offer (Matthew 11:28; Revelation 22:17), and warnings against falling away that seem genuine for true believers (1 Corinthians 9:27; Galatians 5:4; Hebrews 10:26-29). These argue against a strictly Calvinist reading.
Difficulties for Both Views
In all honesty, there are difficulties posed on both sides of the debate. Calvinists must explain how their doctrines align with human freedom and responsibility affirmed in Scripture. They must also account for God’s love for all and desire for every individual to be saved.
On the other hand, non-Calvinists have to explain the many verses on election and predestination in a way that accounts for them fairly and does not explain them away. They also must deal with theemphasis on God’s sovereignty and complete reliance on His grace apart from human merit for salvation. There are challenging texts for both camps.
Possibilities for Synthesis and Resolution
One possibility for resolving tensions is to recognize that the Bible uses different kinds of language to describe salvation. Some texts use more universal language while others use terms and analogies that imply divine particularity. Perhaps God’s perspective is more universal and man’s more particular.
Another approach is to distinguish God’s moral will (what He requires of all) and His sovereign decretal will (what He predestines to happen). This recognizes a diversity in God’s will. Election is according to His sovereign decrees, while His moral will revealed in commands applies universally.
A mediating position avoids the extremes of Calvinism and Arminianism, affirming both divine sovereignty and human responsibility. God truly elects people unto salvation, yet also enables all to freely respond to the gospel offer. This synthasis acknowledges mystery and paradox in Scripture instead of a strict logical system.
Perhaps it is best to allow some tension regarding the exact nature and causal relationships between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Scripture itself seems to accept this tension rather than resolving it, since both realities are repeatedly affirmed.
Practical Implications
Beyond the theological debates, Calvinism also has practical implications for how Christians should live in light of these doctrines. Calvinists call this “experimental Calvinism.” Even if someone is unsure about Calvinism’s theology, they can still reflect on how these truths affect Christian living if believed.
Humility and Gratitude
Seeing the glory of God demonstrated in His sovereign grace should humble believers, recognizing they can take no credit for their salvation but owe all to God (1 Corinthians 4:7). This eliminates pride and produces gratitude and praise to God.
Worship and Delight in God
Since He alone is responsible for salvation from start to finish, all glory goes to God alone. This recognition should lead to heartfelt worship. Election should produce delight in God, not debate (Romans 11:33-36).
Evangelism and Hope
Those who trust in God’s sovereignty in salvation can evangelize boldly, knowing God will use their witness to effectively call His elect. God’s sovereignty does not dampen evangelism but empowers it and removes prideful motives.
Humility and Assurance
Thinking much of one’s election in Christ provides confidence that salvation does not ultimately depend on oneself but on the faithful God who called His elect by grace. Believers can humbly reflect on their calling in Christ.
Holiness and Obedience
Since holiness is a certain fruit of election (Ephesians 1:4), Calvinism provides motivation to pursue godliness. Believers can be confident that the process of sanctification that began will continue until the end. God finishes what He started.
Perseverance in Ministry
In ministry, recognizing God’s sovereign plan in all things helps persevere through trials and setbacks, since His purposes ultimately cannot fail (Romans 8:31-39). Belief in a sovereign God should produce resilient faith.
Prayerfulness and Dependence on God
Dependence on God’s sovereign grace also motivates fervent prayer, knowing that this is the means through which He brings His purposes to pass. Prayer confesses reliance on God to decisively act according to His will.
So while differences over Calvinism remain, all Christians can learn from reflecting on how these doctrines should affect their Christian lives if believed to be true. The humility, gratitude, hope, praise, obedience and prayer they produce are beneficial regardless of one’s theological persuasion on the difficult debates these doctrines raise. In this sense, Calvinism’s experimental effects can speak powerfully to all believers.