Reformed Theology, also known as Calvinism, is a theological system that emphasizes the sovereignty of God in all areas of life, particularly in salvation. It is based on the teachings of John Calvin, a 16th-century Protestant theologian. Reformed Theology is important because it provides a comprehensive understanding of God’s character and His work in salvation. It helps believers to have a deeper appreciation for God’s sovereignty and to trust in His plan and purpose.
The First Point: Total Depravity and the Sinful Nature of Man
Total Depravity is the belief that every aspect of human nature has been corrupted by sin. This means that all people are born with a sinful nature and are incapable of choosing God or doing anything good on their own. Total Depravity is supported by various biblical passages, such as Romans 3:10-12 which states, “There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God.”
The implications of Total Depravity are profound. It means that salvation is entirely the work of God and not dependent on any human effort or merit. It humbles us and reminds us that we are completely dependent on God’s grace for our salvation. It also highlights the need for regeneration, the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit in bringing about new life in a person.
The Second Point: Unconditional Election and God’s Choosing of His People
Unconditional Election is the belief that before the foundation of the world, God chose certain individuals to be saved, not based on anything they would do or any merit they possess, but solely out of His sovereign will and purpose. This doctrine is supported by passages such as Ephesians 1:4-5 which says, “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.”
The implications of Unconditional Election are that salvation is entirely a result of God’s grace and not dependent on human effort or choice. It also brings comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that their salvation is secure because it is based on God’s unchanging purpose and not on their own performance.
The Third Point: Limited Atonement and the Purpose of Christ’s Sacrifice
Limited Atonement, also known as Particular Redemption, is the belief that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross was intended to save a specific group of people, namely those whom God had chosen for salvation. This doctrine is supported by passages such as John 10:11 which says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
The implications of Limited Atonement are that Christ’s sacrifice was effective and accomplished its purpose in saving those whom God had chosen. It emphasizes the particularity and efficacy of Christ’s work on behalf of His people.
The Fourth Point: Irresistible Grace and the Work of the Holy Spirit in Salvation
Irresistible Grace is the belief that when God chooses to save someone, He will irresistibly draw them to Himself through the work of the Holy Spirit. This means that those whom God has chosen cannot resist His grace but will be brought to faith and repentance. This doctrine is supported by passages such as John 6:44 which says, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them.”
The implications of Irresistible Grace are that salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace and not dependent on human will or effort. It brings comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that their salvation is secure because it is based on God’s power and not on their own ability to respond.
The Fifth Point: Perseverance of the Saints and the Assurance of Salvation
Perseverance of the Saints, also known as Once Saved, Always Saved, is the belief that those whom God has chosen for salvation will persevere in faith and will not ultimately fall away. This doctrine is supported by passages such as Romans 8:38-39 which says, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
The implications of Perseverance of the Saints are that believers can have assurance of their salvation and confidence in God’s faithfulness. It encourages believers to continue in their faith and to trust in God’s promises.
Understanding God’s Sovereignty: The Foundation of Reformed Theology
At the heart of Reformed Theology is a deep understanding and appreciation for God’s sovereignty. God’s sovereignty means that He is in control of all things and that nothing happens apart from His will. This understanding is based on passages such as Psalm 115:3 which says, “Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.”
The implications of understanding God’s sovereignty are profound. It means that everything that happens, including our salvation, is ultimately under God’s control. It brings comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that nothing can happen to them apart from God’s will.
The Importance of Scripture in Reformed Theology
In Reformed Theology, Scripture holds a central place of authority. It is believed to be the inspired and infallible Word of God and the ultimate source of truth. This belief is based on passages such as 2 Timothy 3:16-17 which says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
The implications of the importance of Scripture are that it is the final authority in matters of faith and practice. It guides and shapes our understanding of God and His will for our lives.
The Role of Faith in Salvation and the Reformed View of Justification
In Reformed Theology, faith is seen as the means by which we receive the gift of salvation. It is not a work or merit on our part but a response to God’s grace. This understanding is based on passages such as Ephesians 2:8-9 which says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The implications of the role of faith in salvation are that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. It emphasizes that salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace and not dependent on any human effort or merit.
The Relationship between God’s Sovereignty and Human Responsibility
In Reformed Theology, there is a tension between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility. While God is ultimately in control of all things, humans are still responsible for their choices and actions. This tension is seen throughout Scripture, such as in Romans 9:20-21 which says, “But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’ Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?”
The implications of the relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility are that we are called to trust in God’s sovereignty while also taking responsibility for our choices and actions. It reminds us that we are accountable to God for how we live our lives.
The Beauty and Comfort of Reformed Theology’s Understanding of God’s Sovereignty.
In conclusion, Reformed Theology provides a comprehensive understanding of God’s character and His work in salvation. It emphasizes the sovereignty of God in all areas of life, particularly in salvation. The five points of Reformed Theology – Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints – highlight the depth and beauty of God’s work in saving His people. Understanding God’s sovereignty brings comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that their salvation is secure because it is based on God’s unchanging purpose and not on their own performance. Reformed Theology also emphasizes the importance of Scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. Overall, Reformed Theology provides a solid foundation for understanding and living out the Christian faith.
