Arminianism vs Calvinism(Round One)
Arminianism was started by Jacobus Arminius (1560 - 1609). He was born slightly before John Calvin died and was actually taught by Calvin's son-in-law. He was a Calvinist until one day when forced to defend his beliefs he found that his opponent could ably defend his views against Calvinism. This experience provoked Arminius to search for truth.
I know that I am in unfamiliar waters. My spell check doesn't even recognize Arminianism. Let me attempt to oversimplify the controversy. Calvinism carried out to its extreme says, "It is all God." Arminianism carried out to its extreme says, "It is all man." Calvinism teaches one is incapable of choosing Christ in himself. Therefore to be saved one is unconditionally elected or chosen. This leads to a limited atonement. In simple words - Jesus died for the elect and not for the world. His grace is irresistible if you are chosen. You will believe. The last point is - if God chooses to save you can not be lost. A more familiar way to say it is once saved always saved. Ultimately man has no responsibility.
I grew up Arminian and didn't even know it. I knew what I must do to be saved. I must hear. I must believe. I must repent. I must confess. And yes I must be baptized. All of these steps are Biblical, yet they all focus on me. That's why I was uncomfortable with someone asking me if I was saved. You see if it is all based on me a positive answer is one of pride. A negative answer is one of depression. I don't like either of those options.
I know what you are waiting for - Which one is right? If I were debating I must take serious issue with Calvin's view of election and limited atonement. My God desires all to be saved. What must they do? Choose. Have faith. However, do not remove the power of God in salvation. The Holy Spirit convicts men of sin. If the final product is pride or frustration it is not of God.
April 11, 2007