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 Critique of Brian Abasciano’s Corporate Election Theory
Do you agree with Brian Abasciano's corporate election theory? Why or why not? With regards to corporate election, well of course there is such a thing as corporate election (church, nation) and yes, definitely there is individual election. Even Dr. Abasciano acknowledges this as you quoted above. However I do not subscribe to Dr. Abasciano’s view because for the following reasons:1.) Dr. Abasciano engages in word play, argues on semantics and argues fallaciously – No matter how he states it either way, the group and the individual are inseparable. There is no group without the individual, no “ekklesia” without the “called out ones.” His insistence on somehow drawing a fine line between corporate election and individual election borders on committing the fallacy of equivocation. Trying to make a distinction when there should be none and then saying that both views are logically coherent, borders on the fallacy of circular reasoning. Of course, it is logically coherent because … [Read more...]
Steering Clear of Online Scams: How to Protect Yourself from Digital Fraud
Scams and get-rich-quick schemes have been around for as long as money has existed. But in today's fast-paced, hyper-connected digital world, scammers have more opportunities than ever to trick people out of their hard-earned cash and sensitive information. There are all sorts of scams out there, from fake emails and identity theft to Ponzi schemes and bogus investment opportunities. Scammers are getting smarter and more creative, using a wide range of tactics to fool people. The scary part is that these scams are having a huge impact on people's lives. A recent survey by the Global Anti-Scam Alliance and Scam Adviser found that a whopping 40% of people worldwide have lost money to investment scams. Even worse, most of them (69%) didn't even try to get their money back because they didn't know how. These scams are hitting people where it hurts - their wallets. About 66% of people said that getting scammed had a big impact on their finances. Surprisingly, 32% didn't try to … [Read more...]
Understanding the Differences Among Calvinists: 3-Point, 4-Point, 5-Point, and Hyper-Calvinism
Well, there are some points in Calvinism that some people who label themselves "Calvinist" don't accept. However, for me, one can't consider himself a Calvinist if one does not accept the five points. The five points work seamlessly and are logically flawless together and supported by Scriptures. Further, they have a basis in Church history as they are the ones laid down by the Synod of Dort in response to Arminianism. (A side note: The most famous five-point Calvinist among independent Baptists was probably Charles Spurgeon.) You can't take one point away and still call it Calvinism. It's the whole package. You can't call yourself a Calvinist if you don't accept the five points. But that's just me; I can't impose labels on people if they insist on calling themselves a Calvinist if they only accept three or four points. But if we are to be technical about it...Most Calvinists do not consider somebody to be a Calvinist if he/she only adheres to three points, and there are a lot of … [Read more...]