The Arminian vs. Calvinist debate represents two differing views in Christian theology, specifically within Protestantism, on how salvation is attained and whether humans have a choice in the matter.
- Arminianism (Jacob Arminius):
- Free Will: Emphasizes that humans have free will to accept or reject God’s grace.
- Conditional Election: Believes that God’s election (or choosing who will be saved) is based on foreknowledge of who will believe in Christ, meaning it’s conditional on a person’s response.
- Unlimited Atonement: Jesus died for all people, not only for the elect, allowing everyone the opportunity to be saved.
- Resistible Grace: God’s grace can be resisted by humans, meaning people can choose not to respond to it.
- Possibility of Falling from Grace: Believers can lose their salvation if they choose to turn away from God.
- Calvinism (John Calvin):
- Total Depravity: Humans are inherently sinful and unable to choose God on their own due to the fall.
- Unconditional Election: God elects or predestines certain people for salvation based solely on His will, not on any foreseen merit or actions.
- Limited Atonement: Jesus’ atoning sacrifice was specifically for the elect and is not applied universally.
- Irresistible Grace: When God extends His grace to a person, they cannot resist it; His chosen people will inevitably come to faith.
- Perseverance of the Saints: True believers will remain in faith, meaning they cannot lose their salvation.
These two theological perspectives differ in their views on divine sovereignty, human choice, and the scope of salvation. Arminians emphasize human responsibility and a universal opportunity for salvation, while Calvinists highlight God’s sovereignty in determining who is saved.