Calvinism and Arminianism: Myths and Realities

David de Bruyn

July 4, 2017

The debate between Calvinism and Arminianism often sparks misunderstanding within evangelical Christianity. Named after John Calvin and Jacob Arminius, these theological systems explore how God’s grace operates in salvation. Calvinism emphasizes unconditional election, where God’s foreknowledge is causative, choosing the elect for His reasons. Arminianism views foreknowledge as foresight, with election based on foreseen faith. Misrepresentations, like claims that Calvinists reject God’s love for all or that Arminians deny grace’s necessity, fuel slander. Both systems span a spectrum—strict to moderate—and remain within orthodox Christianity, affirming core gospel truths. Hyper-Calvinism and hyper-Arminianism, however, veer into heresy by denying free gospel offers or human inability. Christians should approach this debate with charity, studying key scriptures like Romans 8 and Ephesians 1 to understand election and foreknowledge, fostering unity rather than division.

Calvinism and Arminianism: Myths and Realities

July 4, 2017

Calvinism and Arminianism, often misunderstood, explore God’s grace in salvation. Calvinism sees election as unconditional; Arminianism as foreseen faith. Both remain orthodox, but myths fuel division.