Calvinism
Teacher
Lesson Summary
The class examined Calvinism by first acknowledging the limits of human knowledge and the call to test all teachings against Scripture, using the Berean model of eager, daily investigation. The teacher revisited Romans 9‑11, noting that the same passages can be interpreted to support both an unconditional election view and a more inclusive, merciful perspective, especially when considering the concluding statement that God "consigned all to disobedience, that He may have mercy on all." The discussion then moved to five foundational questions about salvation, affirming that Scripture teaches salvation is by God's grace, is available to anyone who believes, is motivated by God's love, is received through personal faith, and is ultimately secured in the mind of God with a past‑present‑future reality. The teacher contrasted these biblical positions with typical Calvinist answers, highlighting where Calvinism offers explanations—such as predestination for why some believe and others do not—and where it lacks clear scriptural support. The class concluded that while the Bible does not explicitly answer why God chooses some hearts, believers are called to trust in God's love, share the gospel universally, and avoid judging those who differ in belief.
Key Scriptures
For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all.