Calvinism is a Protestant Christian belief system based on the teachings of the 16th century French theologian Jean Calvin. It is considered to be a branch of evangelicalism that relies heavily on the Bible for authority. In comparison to non-Calvinist Christian traditions, it is more strict in its interpretation of the Bible and emphasizes a predestination theology, whereas other denominations focus on free will and the individual’s choice to accept or reject faith.
The most notable difference between Calvinism and other forms of Christianity is its belief in predestination. Predestination, or God’s sovereignty, is the belief that God has already predetermined the fate of each person, and that nothing can alter it. Calvinists believe that individuals have no control over their eventual salvation, as it has already been decided by God. This differs from other branches of Christianity, where free will is emphasized, and individuals are free to choose their own destiny.
Another major difference between Calvinism and Christianity is its doctrine of the five points, or “TULIP.” The acronym stands for Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints. This is a summarization of Calvin’s view of humans, salvation, grace, and eternal life. It stresses that humans are sinners and unable to save themselves, and that God has chosen those whom He will save, and predestined them to eternal life or damnation.
Calvinism also emphasizes a covenant relationship between God and His people. This is most notably seen in the Reformed Church, where pastors, elders, and church members all take part in the “Covenant of Grace”. This is a covenant meant to demonstrate God’s love and faithfulness to His people. In the Reformed Churches, this covenant is usually recited before church services in order to remind the congregation of God’s faithfulness.
Lastly, Calvinists generally live by a doctrine of particular piety. This is a form of worship that emphasizes personal holiness, obedience to God’s will, and a life of service. Calvinists view the Christian life as a call to serve God and His people, and strive to live in accordance with God’s will. This differs from other forms of Christianity wherein individual piety is stressed.
Total Depravity
Calvinism includes the doctrine of total depravity, which states that Adam’s original sin has damaged the ability of humans to make moral decisions. This means that humans are by nature sinful and incapable of choosing to do good in the eyes of God. According to Calvinists, this means that humans are born into sin and must rely on the saving grace of God in order to be saved.
Unconditional Election
Unconditional election is the teaching that asserts God has already chosen who will be saved and who will not, and regardless of the actions of man, these individuals will still be saved or damned according to God’s eternal plan. This does not mean that those who have been chosen cannot protest their fate, for according to Calvinism, individuals are still able to accept or reject the grace that God has offered them.
Limited Atonement
The doctrine of Limited Atonement claims that Jesus’ atonement was only for those whom God had specifically chosen to be saved. It is believed that Jesus died as an adequate payment for the sins of those people, and that while this atonement was powerful enough to save all of humanity, God did not will it. Those who were not chosen will remain eternally lost.
Irresistible Grace
In the doctrine of Irresistible Grace, it is taught that those who were predestined by God to be saved will receive the grace of God that is meant to convert them. This grace is believed to be powerful enough to convince even the most hardened of sinners to accept Jesus Christ as their savior. Calvinists believe in the power of God’s grace to save, and that it could be rejected or resisted, but that it ultimately will not be.
Perseverance of the Saints
The doctrine of Perseverance of the Saints teaches that those individuals who have accepted God’s grace and been saved cannot reject it and lose their salvation. According to Calvinism, once an individual has been saved, he or she will remain saved until the end, and that no amount of sin can separate them from God’s love.
The Covenant of Grace
In the Reformed Churches, the covenant of grace is especially important. This is an agreement between God and the church which emphasizes His faithfulness and love, as well as responsibility of the church to follow His will. By reciting this covenant before church services, it serves as a reminder that God is faithful and will be there to guide and protect His people if they stay true to His teachings.
Particular Piety
Calvinists emphasize a particular type of piety, which includes a commitment to personal holiness, complete obedience to God’s will, and a humble, generous life of service. This is a contrast to non-Calvinist forms of Christianity, where individual piety is emphasised, and personal desires and wants may be of more importance than faith or service.
Calvinism vs Arminianism
The primary difference between Calvinism and Arminianism is their view of God’s sovereignty. Calvinists maintain that God has predetermined the fate of each person and that individuals do not have any control over their eventual salvation, while Arminians argue that people have the freedom to accept or reject faith and that ultimately, God will save all who turn to Him.
Calvinism vs Lutheranism
The primary differences between Calvinism and Lutheranism are in the teachings of justification and predestination. Lutherans believe that people are justified by faith and good works, while Calvinists hold that people are justified by faith alone. Lutherans also reject the doctrine of predestination, while Calvinists adhere firmly to it.
Calvinism vs Presbyterianism
The primary difference between Calvinism and Presbyterianism is in their views of church government. Calvinism has a more rigid hierarchical structure, while Presbyterianism emphasizes the importance of the local congregation. Both adhere to the doctrine of Reformed theology, but Calvinists are more strict in their interpretation of scripture.
Calvinism vs Pentecostalism
The primary differences between Calvinism and Pentecostalism are in their views of spiritual gifts and the role of emotion in worship. Calvinism sees spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues, as being obsolete, whereas Pentecostals emphasize the importance of spiritual gifts as manifestations of the Holy Spirit. Calvinists also generally reject emotional worship services, while Pentecostals believe that emotion is a necessary part of faith.
