Arminianism
Introduction
Arminianism is a theological framework within Protestant Christianity that emphasizes the free will of humans in the process of salvation. It originated in the early 17th century as a reaction to the Calvinist doctrine of predestination. Named after its founder, Jacobus Arminius, Arminianism has significantly influenced various Christian denominations and continues to be a subject of theological discussion and debate.
Historical Background
Early Development
Jacobus Arminius (1560–1609), a Dutch theologian, initially studied under the Calvinist Theodore Beza but later began to question some of the tenets of Calvinism. Arminius's theological views were further developed by his followers, known as the Remonstrants, who presented their objections to Calvinist doctrine in the form of a document called the Remonstrance of 1610.
The Synod of Dort
The theological disputes between the Arminians and the Calvinists culminated in the Synod of Dort (1618–1619), an international assembly of Reformed theologians. The Synod rejected the Remonstrance and affirmed the Calvinist doctrines, leading to the persecution of Arminian theologians and the temporary suppression of Arminianism in the Netherlands.
Core Tenets
Conditional Election
Arminianism posits that God's election of individuals to salvation is based on His foreknowledge of their free will decisions. This contrasts with the Calvinist doctrine of unconditional election, which asserts that God's choice is not influenced by any foreseen merit or action on the part of the individual.
Unlimited Atonement
Arminians believe that Christ's atonement is intended for all humanity, not just the elect. This doctrine, known as unlimited atonement, holds that Jesus's sacrificial death provides the potential for salvation to every person, although its efficacy is contingent upon individual acceptance.
Resistible Grace
A key aspect of Arminian theology is the belief in resistible grace, which asserts that humans have the ability to resist God's grace. This stands in opposition to the Calvinist concept of irresistible grace, which teaches that God's grace inevitably leads to the salvation of the elect.
Prevenient Grace
Arminianism introduces the concept of prevenient grace, which is the divine grace that precedes human decision and enables individuals to respond to God's call to salvation. This grace is seen as a necessary condition for free will to operate in the context of salvation.
Perseverance of the Saints
While traditional Arminianism holds that believers can fall from grace and lose their salvation, some Arminians, particularly those in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition, believe in conditional security. This means that salvation is secure as long as the believer continues in faith.
Influence and Legacy
Methodism
One of the most significant impacts of Arminianism is its influence on Methodism, founded by John Wesley in the 18th century. Wesleyan theology, which emphasizes holiness and sanctification, is deeply rooted in Arminian principles.
Pentecostalism and Charismatic Movements
Arminianism has also influenced the Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, which emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit and the importance of personal experience in the Christian faith. These movements often adopt Arminian views on free will and grace.
Contemporary Evangelicalism
Many contemporary Evangelical denominations and non-denominational churches embrace Arminian theology, particularly in their emphasis on personal decision and evangelism. The Southern Baptist Convention, for example, includes both Calvinist and Arminian perspectives among its members.
Criticisms and Controversies
Calvinist Objections
Calvinists have historically criticized Arminianism for undermining the sovereignty of God and for promoting what they see as a works-based approach to salvation. They argue that Arminianism's emphasis on human free will detracts from the glory and omnipotence of God.
Internal Debates
Within Arminianism itself, there are ongoing debates regarding the extent of human free will and the nature of God's foreknowledge. Some Arminians lean towards Open Theism, which posits that God does not have exhaustive foreknowledge of future free will decisions, while others maintain a more classical view of God's omniscience.
Key Figures
Jacobus Arminius
Jacobus Arminius is the foundational figure of Arminianism. His writings and teachings laid the groundwork for the theological framework that bears his name. Arminius's emphasis on free will and conditional election challenged the prevailing Calvinist orthodoxy of his time.
John Wesley
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, is another pivotal figure in the history of Arminianism. Wesley's theology, often referred to as Wesleyan-Arminianism, expanded on Arminian principles and emphasized the role of sanctification and personal holiness.
Richard Watson
Richard Watson, a 19th-century Methodist theologian, played a significant role in systematizing Wesleyan-Arminian theology. His works provided a comprehensive theological framework that has influenced subsequent generations of Arminian theologians.
Theological Variants
Classical Arminianism
Classical Arminianism adheres closely to the original teachings of Jacobus Arminius. It emphasizes conditional election, unlimited atonement, resistible grace, and the possibility of falling from grace.
Wesleyan-Arminianism
Wesleyan-Arminianism, as developed by John Wesley, places a strong emphasis on sanctification and the possibility of Christian perfection. It also tends to adopt a more optimistic view of human ability to respond to God's grace.
Open Theism
Open Theism is a more recent theological development that has emerged within some Arminian circles. It posits that God's knowledge of the future is dynamic and that He does not have exhaustive foreknowledge of future free will decisions. This view is controversial and has sparked significant debate within the broader Arminian community.
Conclusion
Arminianism remains a vital and influential theological tradition within Christianity. Its emphasis on free will, conditional election, and resistible grace offers a distinct alternative to Calvinist doctrines and continues to shape the beliefs and practices of numerous Christian denominations. As theological debates and discussions evolve, Arminianism's contributions to the understanding of salvation and human agency remain significant.