Arminianism is a theological framework rooted in the teachings of Jacobus Arminius (1560–1609), a Dutch theologian who challenged aspects of Reformed (Calvinist) theology. Arminianism emphasizes human free will and responsibility in the process of salvation, contrasting with the deterministic view of predestination in Calvinism.

Key Tenets of Arminianism

Arminian theology is often summarized by the Five Articles of the Remonstrance (1610), which were written by Arminius’s followers. These serve as the foundation of Arminian thought:

1. Free Will (Partial Depravity):
   • Humans are tainted by sin but not so corrupted that they cannot respond to God’s grace.
   • While humanity cannot save itself, God’s prevenient grace enables individuals to choose or reject salvation.
   • Joshua 24:15: “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.”
2. Conditional Election:
   • God’s election of individuals for salvation is based on His foreknowledge of their faith.
   • This contrasts with Calvinism, which teaches unconditional election.
3. Universal Atonement:
   • Christ’s atonement is for all people, but it is effective only for those who believe.
4. Resistible Grace:
   • God’s grace is offered to all but can be resisted by human free will.
   • Acts 7:51: “You stiff-necked people… you always resist the Holy Spirit!”
5. Conditional Perseverance:
   • Salvation depends on continued faith; believers can potentially fall away from grace.
   • Hebrews 6:4-6: Warns of the danger of falling away after receiving the knowledge of the truth.

Key Differences Between Arminianism and Calvinism

Biblical Support for Arminianism

1. God Desires All to Be Saved:
   • 1 Timothy 2:4: “[God] wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
2. Choice and Responsibility:
   • Deuteronomy 30:19: “I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.”
3. Warnings Against Falling Away:
   • Galatians 5:4: “You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.”

Theological Emphases

1. God’s Love and Justice:
   • Arminianism emphasizes God’s desire for all people to have the opportunity for salvation, reflecting His love and fairness.
2. Human Responsibility:
   • People must actively respond to God’s call and live in faith to maintain their relationship with Him.
3. Salvation as Cooperative:
   • While salvation is initiated by God’s grace, humans cooperate through faith and repentance.

Criticisms of Arminianism

1. Weak View of Divine Sovereignty:
   • Critics argue that by prioritizing free will, Arminianism diminishes God’s sovereignty over salvation.
2. Uncertainty in Salvation:
   • The doctrine of conditional perseverance may lead to anxiety about the assurance of salvation.
3. Works-Based Tendencies:
   • Some fear that emphasizing human responsibility risks veering toward salvation by works.

Legacy and Influence

• Wesleyan-Arminianism:
  • John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, adopted and expanded Arminian theology, emphasizing personal holiness and sanctification.
• Denominations:
  • Arminianism influences many Protestant traditions, including Methodism, Pentecostalism, and parts of the Baptist church.

Key Scripture References:

• Ezekiel 33:11: “I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live.”

Conclusion:

Arminianism highlights human free will, God’s universal love, and the cooperative nature of salvation. While it contrasts with Calvinism’s emphasis on predestination and God’s unilateral action, it appeals to those who value personal responsibility and the inclusivity of God’s grace. Both frameworks seek to address the mysteries of salvation, each emphasizing different facets of God’s relationship with humanity.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.