Calvinism - Does God Choose Some for Heaven and Destine Others For Hell
I begin this article with a little note: While we do view Calvinism as a false doctrine, we do not question the salvation of those that adhire to the Calvinist point of view. Over all, Calvinist hold firmly to the essential doctrines of the faith (Virgin Birth, salvation by grace through faith and etc) and we have nothing but respect for some wonderful Calvinist Christians, such as Matt Slick1 (of CARM). Why then do we even bother to write about the movement? Because it is our fear that Calvinism makes God appear petty and may cause sincere followers to neglect to Great Commission.
What are the basic beliefs of Calvinism? According to Matt Slick, their doctrine can best be described by the acronym TULIP2.
Total Depravity - This is based in the Christian doctrine of Original Sin. Original Sin tells us that every person is totally sinful and that sin permeates every acpect of our lives. This is the one and only "TULIP" doctrine that we, as Charismatic believers share with Calvinist.
Unconditional Election - Calvinist believe that God has chosen some for salvation and others for hell. This view totally negates human free will and the great commission. As Charismatic believers we find this view repugnant and in direct opposition to John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son; that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life."
Limited Atonement - Limited Atonement is the belief that Jesus Christ died only for those that God had already elected to salvation and not for the sins of the world. It is our opinion that this lessens the great sacrafice of Jesus Christ, on the cross.
Irresistible Grace - Those whom God had elected to salvation cannot resist the call. Thus eleminating the free will of the elected. This is a gross misinterpretation of several scriptures, commonly used as proof verses (such as Rom 9:16, Phil 2:12-13 and John 1:12-13)
Perseverance of the Saints - The common term for this, when I was growing up, was "once saved, always saved." This is a doctrine, again based on mistranslations of the scriptures, which states that once the elect have gained salvation it cannot be lost. John 10:27-28 is the most often used proof text for this doctrine. It states, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand." This scripture clearly makes the point that Satan cannot take you against your will. It does not, however mean that you do not voluntarily give up your salvation when you fall into unrepentant sin.
Calvinst may, very well be saved but the real problems are 1. Are they bring anyone else along for the ride and 2. What kind of impression are that giving of our God.
A few verses for your consideration:
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel" Galatians 1:6
"Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God"
Hebrews 3:12
1. Founder and writer for CARM http://www.carm.org
2. Calvinism by Matt Slick, http://www.carm.org/calvinism