Calvinism is best summarized through the five points of Calvinism, commonly referred to as TULIP.
Talking Points:
- Total Depravity. Humans without Christ are completely lost in their sins to the point that they can do no good. Sin affects every part of humanity: our will, emotions, actions, and attitudes. Romans 3:10-12
- Unconditional Election. God chose Christians based on nothing about them. Election is not based on any foreseen faith in humans and it certainly isn’t based on anything they do. It’s simply based on God’s will and choice. Romans 8:29-30, Ephesians 1:4-5
- Limited Atonement. Christ’s death only paid for the sins of the elect. In other words, the death of Christ paid for the sins of God’s true people who respond to Christ in faith and repentance, but not for the whole world. John 10:11
- Irresistible Grace. God effectively calls you because his call cannot be resisted, nor would you want to resist it. In the moment when God calls you he also regenerates you. This is the work of the Holy Spirit coming into your life and giving you a new heart. John 6:37
- Perseverance of the Saints. If you are truly elected and regenerated by God then you will continue on in a life of faith until the end. You aren’t going to be perfect, but you will continue to pursue God until the end of your life. Ephesians 1:11-14
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Have you ever heard of Calvinism before reviewing this topic? If so, what perspectives did you bring with you to the conversation?
- Which of the five points of Calvinism do you find the easiest to accept? Why?
- Which of the five points of Calvinism do you find the hardest to accept? Why?
- Read Romans 3:10-12. How does this verse speak to total depravity? Why is it important to understand sin?
- Read Romans 6:37. How have you experienced God’s irresistible grace?
- Read Ephesians 1:11-14. What tends to derail Christians from staying faithful to God? Why does the Christian life require perseverance?
- How important is the debate between Calvinism and Arminianism for Christians? Should we “divide” with others over this matter? Explain.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
