May 1, 2024
3 minute read
Calvinism is a branch of Christianity that is based on the teachings of John Calvin, a French theologian who lived in the 16th century. Calvinism emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the depravity of humanity, the necessity of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and the perseverance of the saints. Calvinists believe that God has predestined some people to salvation and others to damnation, and that this predestination is not based on anything that people have done or will do.
The Five Points of Calvinism
Calvinism is often summarized in five points, known as the Five Points of Calvinism:
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Total depravity: This doctrine teaches that all people are born with a sinful nature and are unable to do anything good on their own.
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Unconditional election: This doctrine teaches that God has chosen some people to salvation before the foundation of the world, and that this election is not based on anything that people have done or will do.
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Limited atonement: This doctrine teaches that Jesus Christ died only for the elect, and that his death is not sufficient to save all people.
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Irresistible grace: This doctrine teaches that God's grace is irresistible, and that those who are elect will be drawn to salvation by the Holy Spirit.
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Perseverance of the saints: This doctrine teaches that those who are elect will persevere in faith and will not fall away from salvation.
The Impact of Calvinism
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Find a path to becoming a Calvinism. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/p1qxcy/calvinis
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Calvinism.
By far the most important work by Calvin, this systematic presentation in four books of the reformed Christian faith, defined by the five points of Calvinism. Among Calvin’s many accomplishments, his Institutes are the most enduring legacy.
In this work, Hoeksema details a history of Calvinism from its inception and then offers a systematic study of the doctrines of Calvinism. Hoeksema was a prominent figure in the Christian Reformed Church.
Provides a comprehensive historical overview of the development of Calvinist theology from its origins in the 16th century to the present day.
In a clear way that is accessible to a wide audience, McGrath gives a brief introduction to Calvinism and argues that John Calvin was not a hard determinist.
Parker offers a full introduction to Calvin’s theology by showing how the five points of Calvinism, while integral to his thinking, are but the fruit of a deeper structure of thought.
This relatively recent book brings together essays from a wide range of scholars and provides an excellent and up-to-date treatment of many aspects of Calvin’s life and influence.
Steele gives a clear and concise overview of the five points of Calvinism and provides biblical support for each one.
This clearly written book great introduction to basic elements in Calvin’s theology and their enduring influence.
Horton focuses on how covenant theology, when properly understood, can help Christians today understand not only God’s gracious plan for salvation but also important aspects of their own lives.
Mohler gives a defense of the Westminster Confession of Faith, which document that belongs with the Heidelberg Catechism and the Canons of Dort as one of the three great Reformed confessions of faith.
Selderhuis explores Calvin’s personal piety and the vital role it played in his life and theology.
In this work, VanDrunen seeks to show how important themes in Calvin’s theology continue to make a positive and important contribution to Reformed Christianity.
Whitford offers an account of the controversy between Calvin and Michael Servetus that raises important questions about religious intolerance and the limits of religious freedom.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/p1qxcy/calvinis
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