The Best and Worst of Calvinism
Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at 4:00AM My edition of The Works of Jonathan Edwards begins with "An Essay on the Genius and Writings of Jonathan Edwards". In discussing the doctrine of moral necessity, the author makes this remark about Calvinism that caught my eye:
[The doctrine of moral necessity] seems far better calculated to cherish humility, to subdue pride, to bring us more immediately into contact with God, to teach us more effectually our dependence on him, than the opposite doctrine. This remark, indeed, applies to all the peculiarities of Calvinism; if abused, they will lead to more awful and terrible perversions of the gospel, than any other system; but if not abused...they are, we sincerely believe, calculated to produce the most ardent and elevated piety, by bringing the soul into more constant communion with God with and with eternal virtues, than the opposite opinions.
Interesting! There's something everyone can agree with here. If you're not a Calvinist - or even if you are - you may agree that Calvinism can be abused to twist the gospel more than any other system. Calvinists need to be reminded of this. But if you're a Calvinist, you probably agree that Calvinism at its best should lead to humility and a close walk with God.
No matter whether you're a Calvinist or not. Beware of perverted Calvinism. It's ugly. If you're going to be a Calvinist, let it lead you to holiness and humility.
Reader Comments (6)
"Proud Calvinist" should be an oxymoron, and unfortunately, there are lots of [oxy]morons out there. But then again, I'd rather be proud and be denying my theology than be proud and supporting it.
I have often observed that those who tout theso called doctrines of grace the loudest are often the least endowed with that quality.
"I am of Calvin, I am of Wesley, I am of Luther,...." What does the Bible say about that?In my humble opinion, there are fanatics in all denominations; legalists and abusers of doctrine, seeking to enslave rather than set free.
I'm a Calvinist and I can say loud and clear, "There is hardly nothing worse than a proud Calvinist"! It should lead to humility and trust in God and His grace, not to being harsh and proud.
..."let it lead you to holiness and humility."... No true Christian expression can do otherwise.
No one holds the corner for pride in their theology or tradition. The potential for destruction is very real in both camps. In the Methodist tradition where I was born and nurtured I knew folk who were humble and gracious but also those who were not. Even today, many in the Methodist tradition, elevate John Wesley above Scripture. It is also amazing how little credit is given to George Whitfield. In the dispute with Wesley, George the Calvinist appeared in a more favourable and gracious light than John the Arminian.