The Calvinist doctrine of divine means represents a sophisticated theological framework that illuminates the relationship between God's sovereignty and human instrumentality in salvation. The Canons of the Synod of Dort establish this fundamental principle by drawing a compelling parallel between natural sustenance and spiritual nourishment. This theological construct demonstrates that divine sovereignty operates through established channels, much as physical life requires natural means of sustenance such as eating and sleeping. The doctrine emphasizes that God's supernatural work consistently employs ordained means, particularly in the context of salvation and spiritual growth.The Synod of Dort explicitly affirms that God's supernatural work of regeneration incorporates the gospel as its primary instrument of salvation. This doctrinal position characterizes the gospel as both the "seed of regeneration" and the "food of the soul," establishing its indispensable role in the salvific … [Read more...]
Faith, Works, and Salvation: A Comparative Analysis of Calvin and Arminius’ Theological Perspectives
There is probably no other better showcase with regards to the relationship between faith and works in justification and salvation than the position of the theologians John Calvin and Jacobus Arminius. John Calvin was one of the leaders of the Reformation while Jacobus Arminius studied under Calvin’s successor, Theodore Beza. Calvin’s soteriological views (together with that of other compatible views of other Reformers) became the default view of what is known as “Reformed Soteriology” and is otherwise known as “Calvinism” whereas Arminius’ views are summarized in what is known as “Arminianism.”Calvin’s view was later on summarized what is later known as the five points of Calvinism. The five points were raised in response to the five points raised by the Arminians against Calvin’s position. In discussing a part of the five points of Calvinism, we will be able to compare the difference between Calvinists and Arminian views on the interplay between faith, works, justification, and … [Read more...]
A Guide to Making Your Rental Agreement Work (Contract of Lease or Rental Contract)
Last year, there was a lot of talk online about computers taking over lawyers' and judges' jobs. I wasn't too surprised - robots are replacing many jobs these days, and eventually, this might become real. I even joked about switching careers to computer science and spilling all my "lawyer secrets." But jokes aside, the internet is already changing how people deal with legal matters. Instead of visiting a lawyer's office, many folks just Google their legal questions. That's how technology is shaking things up in many fields. Finding Legal Forms Online One thing people often look for online is legal forms. You can now download all kinds of contracts and legal documents from the internet. But wait - don't just grab any rental agreement template and call it a day! While these forms are easy to find, it's crucial to understand what goes into them to avoid future headaches. Important Parts of Your Rental Agreement Who's Who and What's What First, you need to write down who's involved. … [Read more...]
Were the King James Bible Translators Actually Calvinists? A Historical Analysis
Recent debates concerning the theological orientation of the King James Bible translators necessitate a careful examination of historical evidence regarding their doctrinal positions. Historical records strongly indicate that a significant majority of the translators adhered to Calvinist theology or demonstrated strong Calvinistic leanings in their soteriology. Historical Context and Anglican Identity The theological landscape of the Anglican Church during the Elizabethan era, which immediately preceded King James's reign, shows substantial Calvinist influence. Gerald Lewis Bray, a prominent British theologian and Anglican priest, provides crucial insight into this historical reality:"The Thirty-nine Articles of Religion follow the outline of Calvin's Institutes to a surprising extent, and their content is similar... the theologians who shaped Anglican identity in the Elizabethan era were deeply indebted to Calvin, whose major works were quickly translated into English to become the … [Read more...]
Is There Really an Unbroken Succession of Baptist Churches Since Christ?
The concept of Baptist Church Perpetuity, also known as Baptist Successionism, has been a subject of intense debate within Baptist circles. This theory posits that Baptist churches have existed in an unbroken line since the time of Christ and the apostles. However, this claim is not without its critics. Let's examine the arguments for and against this controversial idea. The Case for Baptist Church Perpetuity Proponents of this theory argue that: Jesus promised church perpetuity when He said, "upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18). The church is defined as a local, visible entity composed of properly baptized, organized groups of people, given the exclusive right to propagate in perpetuity until Christ's return. This perpetuity is claimed because it is promised by an all-powerful God. Even in the absence of historical documents, faith in Jesus' promise is sufficient. Various historical groups, such as the … [Read more...]
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