Reform theology, also known as Calvinism, is a theological movement that emphasizes the sovereignty of God in salvation. It emerged in the 16th century during the Protestant Reformation, primarily in response to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. This article will explore the history, beliefs, and key figures of reform theology.
History of Reform Theology Reform theology originated with the teachings of John Calvin, a French theologian who lived in the 16th century. Calvin's teachings emphasized the sovereignty of God in salvation and the doctrine of predestination, which holds that God chooses who will be saved before they are born. Calvin's ideas were highly influential in the Protestant Reformation, which sought to reform the Catholic Church. Beliefs of Reform Theology Reform theology is characterized by several key beliefs, including: Total DepravityReform theology teaches that all human beings are born in a state of total depravity, meaning that they are entirely incapable of pleasing God on their own. This doctrine is based on the biblical teaching that "there is none righteous, no, not one" (Romans 3:10). Unconditional Election Reform theology holds that God chooses who will be saved and who will not be saved solely on the basis of his own sovereign will, apart from any merit or worthiness on the part of the individual. This doctrine is known as unconditional election. Limited Atonement Reform theology teaches that Christ's atonement on the cross was intended only for those whom God has chosen to save. This doctrine is sometimes called particular redemption or definite atonement. Irresistible Grace Reform theology holds that when God chooses to save someone, he irresistibly draws that person to himself, enabling them to respond in faith. This doctrine is known as irresistible grace. Perseverance of the Saints Reform theology teaches that those whom God has chosen to save will persevere in faith to the end of their lives, and will never fall away from grace. This doctrine is also known as the perseverance of the saints. Key Figures in Reform Theology Several key figures have contributed to the development of reform theology, including: John CalvinJohn Calvin was a French theologian who lived in the 16th century and is considered the father of reform theology. He wrote several influential works, including The Institutes of the Christian Religion, which laid out the key doctrines of reform theology. Jonathan Edwards Jonathan Edwards was an American theologian who lived in the 18th century and played a significant role in the Great Awakening, a revival movement that swept through the American colonies. Edwards is known for his sermons on the sovereignty of God and the doctrine of predestination. Charles Spurgeon Charles Spurgeon was a British preacher who lived in the 19th century and was one of the most influential figures in the development of Baptist theology. He was a strong advocate of reform theology and preached on the doctrines of grace throughout his ministry. Conclusion Reform theology is a theological movement that emphasizes the sovereignty of God in salvation. It originated with the teachings of John Calvin and has had a significant impact on the development of Protestant theology. While it is a controversial doctrine, it has shaped the beliefs of millions of Christians around the world.
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