Calvinism Power Beliefs, Contemporary Issues and Missions

This article contends that Calvinism remains one of the complex and contentious theological paradigms in Christianity. Based on the teachings of John Calvin, a French Protestant Reformer, this doctrine avows the supremacy of God, predestination, and the necessity of grace for salvation to take place.

Calvinism has had, and continues to have, an undeniable influence on the formation of Christian denominations such as Reformed churches, Presbyterians, and Puritans, as well as having significant impacts on missionary activity. On the contrary, it has also stirred controversy over the alleged “unloving” parts of God’s character, as well as an atheistic denial of freewill and responsibility.

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Understanding Calvinism

2. What is Calvinism?

Calvinism is a distinct branch of Protestant Christianity that focuses primarily on the complete autonomy of God. It states that everything that happens in the world is a manifestation of God’s will, including who is and who isn’t saved.

Calvinism is particularly famous for the belief that humans are completely and hopelessly lost in sin, and, therefore, cannot place their trust in Christ without aid. Rather, it fully rests on the idea of God’s choice and God’s grace, as opposed to human action and achievement.

Aside from other teachings on God’s sovereignty, predestiantion, and church, Calvinism is well known for its Five Points of Calvinism (TULIP) which serve as its set of beliefs.

Historical Background of Calvinism

3. The Roots of Calvinism

3.1 The Protestant Reformation

Calvinism came into being during the sixteenth century Protestant Reformation, when Christianity was severely challenged on multiple levels, with people trying to work on Reforming its constitutional framework based on the help of the Holy Bible.

3.2 The Role of John Calvin

First, I will define John Calvin. He was a prominent figure of French Christianity and a pastor along with being a well known theologian and scholar between 1509- 1564.

His book, Institutes of the Christian Religion, became one of the most influential theological works in history.

His writings had a widespread reach, and even influenced movements, such as:

• Presbyterianism (Scotland) – Led by John Knox, a disciple of Calvin.
• The Dutch Reformed Church (Netherlands).
• Puritanism (England and America).
• French Huguenots (France).

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Core Doctrines of Calvinism

4. The Five Points of Calvinism (TULIP)

An acronym such as TULIP helps remember the complexities of The Five Points of Calvinism’s core teachings.

4.1 Total Depravity (T)

Under the umbrella Calvinism, all humans inherit sin as a result of the original sin by Adam and Eve. Because of this, people are completely unable to seek God or choose salvation on their own.

• Biblical Support: Romans 3:10 – “There is no one righteous, not even one.”
• What it means: Salvation cannot be earned by good deeds or human effort—it must come from God.

4.2 Unconditional Election (U)

Before the foundation of the world, God chose certain individuals to be saved. This choice was not based on their future actions, faith, or righteousness, but purely on God’s sovereign will.

• Biblical Evidence: Ephesians 1:4 – “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world.”
• What it demonstrates: God’s election is an act of mercy beyond our prerogative.

4.3 Limited Atonement (L)

This teaching carries the notion that the death of Jesus at the cross was purposed for the elect only, not for the entire world’s population.

• Biblical Evidence: John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
• What it demonstrates: Christ’s sacrifice was limited in scope and applied only to those God predetermined for redemption.

4.4 Irresistible Grace (I)

The calling of God to a person for salvation cannot be “refused”. One is “compelled to believe” by the work of the Holy Spirit.

• Biblical Evidence: John 6:37 – “All that the Father gives me will come to me.”
• What it demonstrates: God’s chosen people, the elect, will heed to His calling and come to Christ.

4.5 Perseverance of the Saints (P)

This teaching states that saved persons remain to the very end of their lives in faith in God’s grace and power. God is the one who guaranties through His power their perseverance.

• Support from the Scriptures: Philippians 1:6 – “He who started a good work in you will bring it to completion.”
• What this means: An authentic follower of Christ will not lose their salvific status.

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Overview of TULIP Additional Key Calvinist Doctrines and Beliefs

5. The Doctrine of Predestination

Calvinism argues for predestination, claiming that prior to the establishment of the world, God created a list of persons who would receive salvation and those who would not.

• Several people consider this to be unjust, yet followers of Calvinism maintain that the mercy of god is a grace, never an entitlement.
• The concept of double predestination posits that in the same manner that certain individuals are chosen by God to receive salvation, other individuals are permitted to remain in their transgressions.

6. The Sovereignity of God

Calvinists ontologically affirm the existence of ”God’s providence” which refers to belief that God governs everything, even down to the smallest details, and reigns supreme over historical events, for none of these comes to pass apart from His ordain will.

Calvinism and the Christian Mission

7. The Interrelationship between Calvinism and Missionary Work

It seems that most people assume Calvinism does not encourage missionary activity; however, the evidence suggests otherwise, as some of the most well-known missionaries of all time are known to be Calvinists, such as:

• William Carey (India). He is known as the father of modern missions.
• David Brainerd. He preached for Native Americans.
• John Eliot – Translated the Bible into Native Languages.

7.1 The Effect of Predestination on Missions

• Calvinists hold that evangelism is the instrument through which God draws His elect to faith.
• Missionaries proclaim the gospel, believing that God’s chosen will surely respond.

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Common Misconceptions About Calvinism

8. Myth Calvinism Claims That Evangelism is Without Purpose

• Fact: To Calvinists, evangelism is of utmost importance because it is how God’s people are brought to faith.

9. Myth: Calvinism does not Allow for Human Responsibility.

• Fact: Calvinism holds that people remain accountable for their actions and decisions.

Calvinism Critique

10. Arminianism: A Contrary Standpoint

Arminians hold that:

• Individuals can freely choose to accept or deny salvation.
• The atonement is for all, not just the elect.
• Salvation is not permanent and can be forfeited to those who abandon faith.

These ideas stand in opposition to the calvinist world view and constitute ongoing discussions in Christianity.

Conclusion

Calvinism relies on a deeply sovereign, gracious, and salvific understanding of God. It is controversial, but remarkably impactful on Christian thinking, missions, and the life of the church.

What do you think of Calvinism? Please share your opinion in the comment section below.

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