True CalvinismMany people regard Calvinism as a harsh, unloving, negative and discredited religion. Nothing could be further from the truth. Others equate it with TULIP, (Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace and the Perseverance of the saints). These are the distinctive doctrines of Calvinism in contrast to Arminianism but Calvinism, itself, is very much broader than that. It encompasses the whole teaching of the Bible on our relationship to God, to one another and to the world. Our Relationship to God The first pillar of Calvinism is that anyone, anywhere and at any time can enjoy immediate fellowship with God through Christ (1Tim.2:5). We do not need the help of other priests or mediators. Nor need we be in special religious buildings. The whole of life can and should be lived in the presence of God with the constant awareness that: "Thou God seest me" (Gen.16:13). Yet Calvinism also recognises that because sin has separated us from God, we cannot begin or maintain a relationship with God. The Holy Spirit's work is essential to conversion and all spiritual progress. This twofold stress of Calvinism upon the Spirit and the Scriptures is one of its great distinctive doctrines and makes Bible study a vital activity. Our Relationship with Others The second pillar of Calvinism is that all mankind are by nature equal in the sight of God. As He is no respecter of persons, all are on the same level before Him, whether man or woman, wise or simple, rich or poor, king or subject, clergy or laity. However, Calvinism recognises that sin has destroyed the God-ordained order and produced injustice and oppression in society. To rectify this God has appointed rulers and authorities who have a duty to govern according to His Word (Rom.13:1,4). Within the church, Calvinism also aims at the elimination of tyranny. Though some are given leadership roles, that does not make them superior. Papal and episcopal church government are therefore to be rejected in favour of presbyterianism, which gives an equal voice to each congregation whether large or small, isolated or in the capital city. Ministers and elders are chosen by the members and have equal speaking and voting powers. Calvinism's emphasis on equality made it the main force behind the democratic movement and its accompanying benefits of medicine, education and justice for all. Our Relationship to the World The third pillar of Calvinism is that the world is the handiwork of the Divine Creator. True, sin has entered the creation and spoiled it. Yet Calvinism does not retreat from it, but emphasises God's grace, which hinders and reverses the corruption and makes the world a theatre in which we are to glorify Him. Calvinism not only takes man to the cross and its demands, but also to creation and its mandates. It says: "Repent and believe the gospel" (Mk.1:15), but also: "Be fruitful, multiply, replenish the earth and subdue it" (Gen.1:28). It seeks the constant development of the world in every area of life. Christ is to be recognised as Lord in every field of human endeavour; science, medicine, economics, politics, art, music, etc. Every thought, word and action must be brought captive to the Lord as He speaks in the Bible. Since God has created the world of sounds, shapes and colours, it is man's privilege to perceive, enjoy and reproduce these as long as this is done in accordance with the principles laid down in His Word. Calvinism urges us to discover God in all His works. While not losing sight of the world to come and the fact that we are pilgrims here, it forbids looking disdainfully on this present world. This positive all-embracing view has always inspired and encouraged education, science and wholesome culture. Conclusion [Professor Macleod and Ordination Vows][Intimidation][Concern for Justice] [Creation and Evolution] Any comments or questions please E-Mail me or Rev William Macleod the Editor. [Back to Reformed Christian Pages][Back to Free Church Foundations] |