Calvinism and Arminianism represent two theological perspectives on the doctrines of salvation and divine sovereignty, and both have substantial biblical support. Understanding which view is “correct” often depends on individual interpretation of Scripture and theological tradition. Here’s a brief overview of each viewpoint along with key biblical references.
**Calvinism:**
Calvinism is commonly associated with the Five Points of Calvinism, often summarized by the acronym TULIP:
1. **Total Depravity**: Humanity is fundamentally sinful and unable to choose God without divine intervention.
– **Biblical References**:
– Romans 3:10-12 – “None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.”
– Ephesians 2:1-3 – “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…”
2. **Unconditional Election**: God has chosen certain individuals for salvation unconditionally, based on His own purposes.
– **Biblical References**:
– Ephesians 1:4-5 – “Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world…”
– Romans 9:11-13 – “Though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad… as it is written, ‘Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.’”
3. **Limited Atonement**: Christ’s atonement was intended specifically for the elect and effectively secured their salvation.
– **Biblical References**:
– John 10:14-15 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
– Matthew 1:21 – “…for he will save his people from their sins.”
4. **Irresistible Grace**: Those whom God has chosen will inevitably come to faith through His grace.
– **Biblical References**:
– John 6:37 – “All that the Father gives me will come to me…”
– Acts 13:48 – “And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord. And as many as were appointed to eternal life believed.”
5. **Perseverance of the Saints**: Those truly saved will persevere in faith until the end.
– **Biblical References**:
– Philippians 1:6 – “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
– John 10:28-29 – “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish… and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
**Arminianism:**
Arminianism emphasizes free will and the responsibility of individuals to respond to God’s grace. It is structured around the following points:
1. **Conditional Election**: God’s election is based on His foreknowledge of who would believe in Christ.
– **Biblical References**:
– Romans 8:29 – “For those whom he foreknew he also predestined…”
– 2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise… but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”
2. **Universal Atonement**: Christ died for all people, providing the means for all to be saved.
– **Biblical References**:
– 1 John 2:2 – “He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.”
– John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world… that whoever believes in him should not perish…”
3. **Total Depravity (with the possibility of Wiggle Room)**: While humanity is fallen, God provides grace that enables individuals to respond to Him.
– **Biblical References**:
– John 1:9 – “The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.”
– Titus 2:11 – “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people…”
4. **Resistible Grace**: Individuals can resist God’s call and choose not to believe.
– **Biblical References**:
– Acts 7:51 – “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit.”
– Matthew 23:37 – “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together…”
5. **Possibility of Falling from Grace**: Believers can choose to abandon their faith.
– **Biblical References**:
– Hebrews 6:4-6 – “For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened… and then have fallen away…”
– 2 Peter 2:20-22 – “For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome…”
Both Calvinism and Arminianism are rooted in biblical theology and have adherents who derive differing interpretations of the same Scripture passages. The “correctness” of each view often hinges on how one reconciles the tension between God’s sovereignty and human free will. As a believer navigates these theological waters, it is vital to approach the discussion with humility, recognizing the complexities of the Scriptures and the diversity of God’s people.