March 27 - Saved or Not

March 27 – Saved or Not

IN the late 1500s, two pastors came together to debate Calvin’s views on predestination. Jacob Arminius had agreed to argue for Calvin. But, he lost the debate. In fact, he lost before it even began. As he studied both sides of the issues, he couldn’t help himself, he came to agree with hi opponent.

He split the Calvinist movement. When he died in 1609, the conflict was still raging. In 1610, his followers published the “Remonstrance” an outline of their five beliefs regarding salvation. “Remonstrance” stated that they had ‘set out what is sufficient for salvation. It is unnecessary to look higher or lower.’

1. Humans can do nothing good on their own.
2. Before the foundation of the world, God chose to save everyone who would freely choose to trust Christ.
3. Jesus died for everyone, but his death only redeems believers.
4. People can choose to reject God’s attempts to save them.
5. Scripture doesn’t clearly state whether or not Christians can forfeit their salvation.

In 118, Prince Maurice of Holland, who hated the Arminians for political reasons invited Calvinist pastors to gather in Dort simply to attack the Arminians. This Synod, though dealing with all of the political overtones, attempted to draft a balanced response.

1. Humans are by nature spiritually dead.
2. If someone trusts Christ, it is because God chose them. God’s choice is unconditional, not based on any human decision.
3. Christ’s death atoned for only those who would believe in him.
4. When God regenerates someone, that person will neither resist nor reject His grace.
5. Every Christian will persevere in faith until the end.

Until this time, predestination was only a small part of Calvinist theology. Its main purpose was simply to assure Christians of God’s love. After this point, predestination became one of the central tenets of their teaching.