Arminianism

Arminianism
RELATED TOPICS	Calvinism Jacobus Arminius, John Wesley, Methodism Free will
SERMONS, ESSAYS AND OPINIONS
CONTENTS

Arminianism is a term used used to describe the theological view that denies predestination and instead accepts free-will; or more broadly, the view that denies the 5 tenets of Calvinism. The term arminian is named from one of its early theologians, Jacobus Arminius.

In short, Arminian theology claims God is sovereign, but man has free will. It's five major points of departure from Calvinism

• The decree of salvation applies to all who believe on Christ and who persevere in obedience and faith (conditional election).
• Christ died for all men (universal atonement).
• The Holy Spirit must help men to do things that are truly good (such as having faith in Christ for salvation).
• God's saving grace is not irresistable.
• It is possible for those who are Christians to fall from grace.

These are a paraphrased version of the summary of the Arminian Remonstrance from 1610.

Possibly one of the best known Arminian Theologians was John Wesley, following his lead the Methodist Church has been generally considered Arminian in its theology (although it is not stated in the deed of union). The issue of Arminian versus Calvinist theology is considered in the Statement on the Anglican-Methodist Covenant to be one of two remaining doctrinal areas where there are theological tensions (within and) between the two denominiations. However, their conclusion in paragraph 117 is:

In practice, both churches permit a range of emphases, within the parameters laid down by the terms of assent, in the interpretation of Scripture. The way in which the terms of subscription to the formularies are expressed softens the impact of underlying historical controversies. We do not believe, therefore, that this issue, though an important one, should prevent closer unity between our churches, any more than it prevents communion within them.

Arminianism shouldn't be confused with The Armenian Apostolic Church which was founded by Saint Gregory around 300 AD, one of the oldest denominations of Christianity.

Quotes

Justin Martyr, Dialogue with Trypho, chapter CII. In ANF1, that is, Roberts A, Donaldson J and Coxe AC (1885) Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol 1, at Christian Classics Ethereal Library. [Re: Freewill, predestination and determinism. C 160 AD.] [Cf chapter LXXXVIII.]

But yet, since He knew that it would be good, He created both angels and men free to do that which is righteous, and He appointed periods of time during which He knew it would be good for them to have the exercise of free-will; and because He likewise knew it would be good, He made general and particular judgments; each one’s freedom of will, however, being guarded.

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