An Introduction to Calvinism (6/12)

"On the Predestination of Saints" is a treatise by Augustine of Hippo addressing the doctrines of grace, predestination, and free will. Written in response to the Pelagian controversy, Augustine defends the necessity of God's grace for salvation and argues that human beings are incapable of turning to God on their own. He explores the concept of predestination, asserting that God has chosen some for salvation, not based on their merits, but according to His own will. Augustine grapples with the tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, seeking to uphold both God's justice and His mercy. The work has profoundly shaped Western Christian thought on salvation and divine grace.

Martin Luther's "Bondage of the Will" is a theological treatise defending his doctrine of justification by faith alone against the views of Erasmus of Rotterdam.

In 'The Potter's Freedom', James White presents a thorough defense of Calvinistic theology, countering Norman Geisler's 'Chosen But Free'. The book emphasizes the sovereignty of God and critiques Arminian perspectives, providing a detailed analysis of biblical texts relevant to the debate. It serves as both a rebuttal and an exposition of Reformed theology.

John Calvin's 'Institutes of the Christian Religion' is a comprehensive systematic theology that profoundly shaped Protestant thought. It systematically presents Calvin's understanding of Christian doctrine, covering topics such as God's sovereignty, salvation by grace through faith, and the sacraments. The Institutes are known for their clarity, precision, and profound insights into the nature of God and humanity's relationship with Him. Calvin's emphasis on the authority of Scripture and the importance of living a life of faith has had a lasting impact on Christian theology and practice. The work remains a significant resource for theological study and reflection.

In 'Freedom of the Will,' Jonathan Edwards delves into the philosophical and theological debates surrounding free will, determinism, and moral agency. He critiques the Arminian notion of libertarian freedom, arguing that every act of the will has a cause and that true freedom consists in acting according to one's own choice without external constraint, rather than in an indifferent or self-determining will. Edwards defends the Calvinist view, using biblical and philosophical arguments to explain concepts such as moral necessity, natural necessity, and the connection between the will and the understanding. The book is known for its rigorous philosophical reasoning and detailed explanations of complex theological issues.