Religious History Reformation Period— 1517—1648 Restoration Period— 1785—1860’s

Goals… Reform the evils of the Roman Catholic Church Restore New Testament Christianity

The Reformers Martin Luther Germany John Calvin England Ulrich Zwingli Switzerland

Calvinism Credited with founding the Presbyterian religion. Based on principles of Augustine of Hippo (4 th century). Refined by James Arminius— Dutch seminary professor.

TULIP Theory T otal Depravity U nconditional Election L imited Atonement I rresistible Grace P erseverance of the Saints

Five-Point System Theological conflict in Holland 17 th century. James Arminius “Five Articles of Faith.” Belgic Confession of Faith & Heidelberg Catechism. Demanded acceptance.

Five Points of Arminianism. God elects or reproves. Christ died for all—but only believers are saved. Man is depraved; he can do no good deeds. God’s grace can be resisted. Whether all will be saved— needs further study.

Results… Rejected by the Synod of Dort. Synod met in 1618 to examine Arminianism in scriptural light. On May 9, 1619, the “articles” were rejected as unscriptural. They set forth the “True teaching,” the five points of Calvinism. Salvation was a “Work of Grace”— from beginning to end!

John Calvin Born in Influenced by Reformation Period begun by Martin Luther. First edition of Institutes of Christian Religion published in Theory based on belief that man is “totally depraved.”

Protestant Doctrines Profoundly influenced by Calvin. Most major denominations accept some parts of Calvinism. Quote of Sam Morris. The TULIP theory points are all interconnected. It’s a “ House of cards.”

Total Inherited Depravity All men inherit Adam’s sin. Man has a “Sinful nature.” Original sin is depravity’s twin sister. Man can do NO good. Total depravity is the bedrock of Calvinism.

Unconditional Election It is impossible for man to choose God. God “arbitrarily” chooses. Man’s fate is predestined. God respects some persons. Some are “destined” to be lost.

Limited Atonement Jesus died for only “the elect.” Each point ties to the previous tenet. Christ’s sacrifice was for a “limited few.” God’s true character is denied!

Irresistible Grace The Holy Spirit operates directly. Man has no choice in this matter. The Spirit overwhelms—man cannot resist. Man cannot understand the gospel. Without Divine intervention, there is no salvation.

Perseverance of the Saints God has total control. Man can never lose his salvation. “Once saved, always saved.” Apostasy is impossible. No man can be directed down the wrong path.

Conclusion? All points depend on the others. Teaching is a sequential unit. It has Permeated more religions than any other false system. Calvinism is a package deal. EVERY POINT is false.