Calvinism
Teacher
Lesson Summary
The class began with Larry Johnson introducing the five points traditionally known as TULIP, clarifying each letter’s meaning and acknowledging that the acronym can oversimplify complex theology. He emphasized that the distinctive Calvinist belief is that humanity, after the fall, is totally depraved and unable to choose faith without a personal, supernatural work of the Holy Spirit. Larry described this as "total inability" and contrasted it with his conviction that such a view does not fully honor Scripture or the character of God. He then provided a brief historical sketch of John Calvin, noting Calvin’s role in the Reformation and his influence on numerous Protestant denominations. While affirming Calvin’s strengths—such as his emphasis on sole reliance on Scripture and the doctrine of the Trinity—Larry expressed discomfort with Calvinism’s implication that God must individually intervene for each soul to be saved. He argued that this perspective can misrepresent both divine nature and human responsibility, leaving unanswered questions about how we are lost and how salvation is applied. The class concluded by encouraging participants to examine these doctrines against the whole counsel of Scripture and to seek a balanced understanding of God’s sovereign work and human response.