Calvinism and Arminianism
Which one are you? Have you ever been asked? I have. And sometimes I am just bugged by the question. Since when do I have to define myself by an ISM?!
Nevertheless, the issues behind the ISMS are important ones. Why? Because they represent key interpretations of Scripture and central beliefs about salvation.
In all of my reading up on this subject, the following are some of the most helpful words I have ever heard about approaching the matter.
They are from a lecture J.I. Packer gave in partnership with Lloyd-Jones in 1968.
The terms Calvinism and Arminianism are traditionally used as a pair, expressing an antithesis, like black and white. It is not any wonder that tension should exist, when each position sees the other as misrepresenting the saving love of God. The wonder is, rather, that so many Christians who profess a serious concern for theology should treat this debate as one in which they have no stakes.
Before we tackle these questions, however, one caveat must be entered. Our concern is with things, not words. It is no part of our aim to revive the bad habits of slogan-shouting and name-calling. What matters is that we should grasp truly what the Bible says about God and His grace, not that we should parade brand labels.
I believe, and wish others to believe, the doctrines commonly labeled Calvinistic, but I am not concerned to argue for the word. One who has received the biblical witness to God’s sovereignty in grace is blessed indeed, but he is no better off for labeling himself a Calvinist, and might indeed be the worse for it! Party passion and love of the truth are different things, and are not always helpful to each other.