This Week in Calvinism - November 16, 2007
Universalism vs. Calvinism.
The popular DVD, Amazing Grace: The History & Theology of Calvinism, is available from the The Apologetics Group for a new low price.
Nathan Finn is asking you to submit what you think are common myths about Calvinism. He "would love for you to share some of your 'favorite' mischaracterizations. ... The more outlandish, the better." He hopes to use this information for the upcoming Building Bridges conference on Southern Baptists and Calvinism that will be held November 26-28. You can comment here.
Rev. Charles Lehmann, a Lutheran, thinks Calvinism distorts the gospel: "Saying that the work of the cross was 'sufficient for all but effective for some' really doesn't get you very far. Where it does get you is fear and uncertainty. But the Word of God is clear. He has died for you. He has forgiven all of your sin." Wait...everyone's sins? Are you sure about that, Rev. Lehmann?: "Paul tells us that 'All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.' But he adds a wonderful word, one word in Greek, two in English… 'being justified.' Who is being justified? All, the very same all who have sinned. You, me, and every person who has been born or ever will be born." Oh, now I get it. Rev. Lehmann must be a universalist. So, logically, if God has forgiven everyone of every sin, then surely he will forgive my Calvinist beliefs. It seems this whole debate over Calvinism is much ado about nothing.
On Nov. 7, the Arbuckle Baptist Association in Oklahoma approved a measure encouraging members to "take a stand against the presentation of reformed theology -- often called 'Calvinism' -- as a legitimate topic that we need to debate; and instead of recommending that we should debate reformed theology, take a public stand against reformed theology." But even some non-Calvinists think that's being a bit too divisive.
Justin on Calvinism and homosexuality. An encouragement to those struggling with sin.
Sadly, even decent, God-fearing Calvinists are willing to defend the use of torture in our so-called "war on terror."
Sir, just curious about the link to my blog when you write that "even some non-Calvinists think that's being a bit too divisive" in regard to the Arbuckle Association. Wondering if you read the whole post?!? I'm not a follower of John Calvin, but I do hold to the doctrines of grace. The Lord bless you!
ReplyDeleteP.S. (I appreciate the work of Mt. Zion immensely!)
Sorry. It wasn't my intention to say that you don't hold to the doctrines of grace. It seemed that by saying you are "not a follower of John Calvin" you were simply trying to avoid labels, like Calvinist, Arminian, etc. That's all I meant by "non-Calvinist."
ReplyDeleteThanks for you comment. My grandfather, L. R. Shelton Jr., started the Mount Zion ministry. He went home to be with the Lord in 2003.