Bible Question: I recently was intoduced to Calvineism and arminisium. After a brief study of each I have a simple question. Why would one of God's elect waste time and argue with the arminisium point of view. On the same hand why study calvinism ,which I mostly agree with, when you can read read the bible. One thing is sure. Jesus Christ is the saviour and chooses his people. To deny this, denies his soveriegn mercy and grace. And please dont argrue about free will. Just tell me why study such things. |
Bible Answer: I agree with Steve that there is no "requirement" to study Calvin, Arminius or any other specific uninspired writings. With that said, let me add that there is plenty of "reason" to study them. God has given some as teachers (see 1Corinthians)-why? Eph 4:12-15. So if the point is to be made that being alone with the Scriptures is sufficient to fulfill God's purpose for the Church, then the point is far from being on target. God has given teachers for the reason set forth in Scripture. So to attempt to down-grade or in any way insinuate that there is no benefit from learning from them is simply contrary to God's plan for the Church as revealed in Scripture. And speaking to the question of motivation, know that none will be drawn into a debate on the doctrine of election here on the Forum. If it's the debate your interested in, simply study that between the Calvinist and Arminius points of view. There is far more there by minds greater than yours and mine that further illustrates there is no need for us to take it up again here. God bless, Jeff |