Calvinism and Arminianism
Chris Hefner
Pelagianism: humans begin their lives in a state of moral uprightness and could merit salvation unaided by grace.
Semi-pelagianism: humans descended from Adam inherit the consequent corruption (but not necessarily the guilt). This corruption does not extend to the whole man.
ARMINIANISM:
Free will or human ability—man is a sinner, but with free will and has the ability to cooperate with God’s Spirit and be regenerated or resist and be damned.
Conditional Election—God’s election is based on his foreknowledge of who God knows will choose him freely.
Unlimited Atonement—Christ’s atoning sacrifice was for everyone. He paid a price for all but guaranteed it for none.
Resistible Grace—God won’t overrule man’s free will; and saving grace can be resisted. Man is regenerated when he believes.
Falling from Grace—Those who are saved can fall from grace and lose their salvation.
CALVINISM:
Total Depravity—Man is totally depraved and spiritually blind, unable to repent and believe. God must initiate repentance.
Unconditional Election—Election based on Divine sovereignty. Election is God’s own decision, and not based upon human choices in the future.
Limited Atonement—Christ’s atoning work was only for the elect.
Irresistible Grace (Effectual Calling)—God’s grace is only offered to the elect and his internal call will effectively result in conversion.
Perseverance of the Saints—God preserves the elect and keeps them to the end. No one chosen by God will ever be lost.
Theological Takeaway: Only if God is sovereign can we trust him.
Worship Takeaway: The Bible does not present sovereign people and a responding God, but rather an All-powerful, sovereign God with responding people.
Evangelistic Takeaway: We must plead with the sovereign God for the salvation of sinners, share the gospel, and trust the results to God. For it is He who saves.
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