Calvinism

Calvinist Branch of Christianity

  • Emerged from the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century.
  • Originated in Switzerland with John Calvin.

Influence in North America

  • Significant impact, particularly through the Puritans.
  • Key figures include Jonathan Edwards, known for his sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
  • Calvinism arrived in America mainly via Dutch and Scottish immigrants.

Theological Distinctives

  • Emphasis on the sovereignty and glory of God.
  • God's sovereignty: His complete reign over all things.
  • Everything in creation is understood to bring glory to God.
  • Word-based denomination, emphasizing Sola Scriptura (Scripture as the primary source of faith).
  • Calvin stressed knowing Scripture; his preaching and commentaries aimed to strengthen understanding of Scripture.

Predestination

  • Calvinist understanding summarized by the acronym TULIP:
    • Total Depravity
    • Unconditional Election
    • Limited Atonement
    • Irresistible Grace
    • Perseverance of the Saints
  • Mnemonic: Muppet is an alternative memory aid.
  • Predestination differentiates Calvinist theology from Arminian theology.
  • Calvin wrote relatively little about predestination, but his followers elevated its role.

Calvinist Denominations in the United States

  • Reformed denominations: Originated with Dutch immigrants.
    • Christian Reformed Church
    • Reformed Church in America
    • Differences between these are minor and historical.
  • Presbyterian denominations: Roots with Scottish immigrants; the Church of Scotland adopted Calvinist theology.
    • Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA): Largest branch.
    • Presbyterian Church in America (PCA)
    • Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC)
  • Differences largely involve biblical interpretation.
    • PCUSA: More of an infallible understanding of Scripture.
    • PCA: More of an inerrant understanding.
    • EPC: Somewhere in the middle.
  • Significant difference: PCUSA ordains women, the PCA does not.

Statistics

  • Approximately 2.8%2.8\% of Christians in The United States belong to Calvinist branches.