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"Calvinism is becoming more mainstream. In this series, we will trace the history of Calvinism and reformed theology back to its beginnings with Augustine and Gnosticism."
The video begins by noting the shift in perception surrounding Calvinism; it is now meeting with more acceptance than it once did. Pastor Tim indicates that while Calvinists still represent a minority, their influence continues to grow.
The series aims to explore the history of Calvinist and reformed theology, tracing it back to Augustine and the Gnostic influence. This will provide a contextual understanding of the origins and development of Calvinistic thought.
Affirmations and Denials in Calvinism
"This study series will be presented in a format we will call affirmation and denial."
Pastor Tim outlines that the study will be structured around affirmations and denials regarding Calvinism. This method will allow for a clear distinction between the beliefs held by Calvinists and their critics.
The goal is to uphold that Calvinists are considered true Christians, recognizing genuine faith while discussing theological differences. This approach seeks to maintain a spirit of love and graciousness.
The Importance of Correct Gospel Presentation
"Nothing is more important than getting the gospel right."
The significance of accurately understanding and presenting the Gospel is emphasized. Pastor Tim stresses that misconstruing the Gospel can have severe consequences for individuals' eternal destinies.
There is a conviction that Calvinism, despite its adherents' sincerity, misrepresents aspects of the Gospel. The intention of this study is to highlight these discrepancies while providing hope and clarification to those who feel confused or hurt by it.
Ongoing Resources and Discussions on Calvinism
"This material will be an ever-growing resource for study."
The series is designed not only to educate but also to serve as a continually updated resource, incorporating various forms of content such as sermons, podcasts, and teaching materials.
Participants will be encouraged to engage deeply with Scripture to discern the validity of the teachings presented. This resource aims to address the rising influence of Calvinism in non-Calvinistic churches and offer methodologies for safeguarding against potential theological shifts.
The Doctrines of Sin and Depravity
"Death spread to all men, it spread like a malignant cancer and it spread to every human being in the human race beginning at the moment of conception."
The discussion centers around three major doctrines: original sin, total depravity, and universal guilt.
The concept of original sin asserts that when Adam sinned, his sin was imputed to every human being conceived thereafter, resulting in universal condemnation.
This doctrine illustrates that every individual is born a sinner, condemned before their birth and under the wrath of God due to Adam's initial transgression.
The idea of total depravity follows, indicating that human nature is completely corrupted by sin.
This corruption permeates the mind, heart, and will of every individual, rendering them incapable of recognizing or accepting the truth of the gospel without divine intervention.
Understanding Total Depravity
"Total depravity means that the totality of human nature has been corrupted, poisoned, and polluted by sin."
The doctrine of total depravity expands on the implications of original sin. It posits that not only is each person marked by sin from conception, but that this sinfulness affects every aspect of their being.
This state leads to a darkened mind that cannot grasp the truth, a defiled heart that rejects love for the truth, and a will that is enslaved to sin.
The idea stresses the necessity for regeneration by divine means, as individuals cannot choose to believe in the gospel on their own; their nature is too corrupted by sin.
The Urgency of Evangelism and Response to the Gospel
"We must warn, we must entreat, we must invite, we must summon, we must exhort."
Despite the understanding of total depravity, there exists a call to action for evangelism. Believers are urged to actively share the gospel and invite others to salvation.
The preacher expresses concern about a lack of urgency in evangelistic efforts, stressing the importance of calling sinners to repentance and faith in Christ.
The conviction that Jesus' sacrifice is sufficient for all emphasizes that everyone has the opportunity for mercy and salvation if they choose to accept it, aligning with the biblical call for all to come and partake freely.
Overview of Calvinist Theology
"Many times a Calvinist will take scripture verses, compiling them in a way that forms their theology."
The discussion focuses on various books of the Bible, such as Romans and Ephesians, as well as themes central to Calvinist theology.
It describes how some theologians selectively use scripture to support their theological positions, often taking verses from different contexts and combining them to substantiate their beliefs.
John MacArthur's journey in understanding Calvinism is highlighted, revealing that his exposure to Puritan texts and figures like R.C. Sproul shaped his theological stance.
It is noted that systematic theology, particularly works like Wayne Grudem's, is prevalent in seminaries, leading students to interpret scripture through this lens.
The Nature of Free Will and Sovereignty
"God is completely sovereign but allows man Free Will."
The discussion asserts that God's sovereignty does not negate human free will, suggesting a necessary reevaluation of these concepts in contrast to Calvinist beliefs.
Total depravity is defined as man's inability to respond to the Gospel due to spiritual death; however, this leads to a tension with the call for evangelism and preaching.
There is a critical view of the Calvinist interpretation of total depravity, emphasizing that it leads to a contradiction in urging individuals to accept the Gospel.
Understanding Doctrines of Grace
"Total depravity means that man cannot receive the Gospel, but we must still preach it."
The doctrines of grace, including total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints, are introduced.
These doctrines form the core of the Calvinist perspective, but the author invites a deeper discussion regarding their implications and interpretations.
Pastor Tim indicates that while both sides—Calvinists and non-Calvinists—hold strong beliefs about salvation, both utilize similar terminology but apply different meanings.
Importance of Biblical Exegesis
"Our system of doctrine must be based on biblical exegesis, not imposed upon it."
Caution is advised against adhering too closely to one theological system, which can lead to a skewed interpretation of scripture.
Pastor Tim emphasizes the necessity of understanding both sides of the theological debate instead of merely defending one's position with proof texts.
The aim is to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the arguments from both Calvinists and non-Calvinists to foster discussion and lessen hostility between the two camps.
Understanding Different Viewpoints
"Our brains are overwhelmed trying to look at all the different viewpoints and learn for ourselves."
Many individuals struggle with independent thinking due to being exposed to a singular perspective or a lack of information. This phenomenon has led to the general tendency for people to adhere strictly to their own beliefs without considering other viewpoints critically.
Pastor Tim emphasizes the importance of forming beliefs based on scriptural evidence rather than merely avoiding labels associated with certain doctrines, like Calvinism.
The analogy of seeing a duck or a rabbit illustrates how our perspective influences our understanding. Once one perspective is established, it becomes challenging to switch to another viewpoint, indicating how entrenched beliefs can obscure the truth.
The Problem with Total Depravity
"If total depravity is not true as they define it, then all the rest of them fall too."
Total depravity is a central tenet of Calvinism, asserting that humans are completely incapable of making moral choices without divine intervention. Pastor Tim insists that accepting this idea affects how one interprets scripture, particularly verses that may seem contradictory to Calvinist beliefs.
The discussion transitions to the historical origin of Calvinism, pointing out that its foundational ideas, like total depravity, were not present in early Christianity until Augustine introduced them around 400 AD.
This historical context urges the audience to reflect on their beliefs and the origins of doctrines they have adhered to throughout their lives.
Human Nature and Original Sin
"Man was created innocent, not holy. He was endowed with freedom of choice, and by his own choice, man sinned against God."
Pastor Tim outlines a theological perspective that distinguishes between innocence and holiness at the creation of man, asserting that man inherits a corrupted nature following the fall from innocence.
This understanding of original sin emphasizes that while mankind is born with freedom of choice, it leads to moral failure as soon as individuals reach the capacity for moral action.
The historical debate between Calvinistic and non-Calvinistic interpretations further complicates discussions, as both sides can draw from the same scriptural sources to support their views.
The Origins and Beliefs of Southern Baptists
"We are not Protestant; we are not another branch of the Presbyterian Church or the Lutheran Church."
The Southern Baptist Convention is divided on its historical roots regarding Calvinism. There are factions that argue Southern Baptists have always been Calvinist, while others assert they began as non-Calvinist.
Some factions claim that Baptists were originally Particular Baptists, while others argue they stemmed from General Baptists. This debate points to a wider theological conflict concerning free will versus predestination.
Pastor Tim emphasizes that it is crucial to understand Southern Baptists' original stance, separating their beliefs from those of other Protestant denominations.
Understanding Original Sin and Infant Innocence
"We believe that if a baby dies before reaching the age of accountability, that baby goes to heaven."
The discussion moves to the concept of original sin and the state of infants. The belief held is that infants are innocent until they reach an age of accountability.
Biblical references are made to support this belief, pointing out that infants are regarded as innocent and will not face eternal condemnation if they die before reaching a state of understanding.
Pastor Tim cites Psalm 139:13 and Isaiah 7:16 to illustrate the notion that children are created fearfully and wonderfully, and they do not have the ability to differentiate between good and evil until they reach a certain age.
The Significance of Accountability and Personal Responsibility
"The soul who sins shall die; the son shall not bear the guilt of the father nor the father bear the guilt of the son."
The notion of personal responsibility in relation to sin is highlighted. Each individual's sin is their own, and they will be held accountable for it, rather than inheriting guilt from their parents.
Pastor Tim argues against the Calvinist view of total depravity, stating that one's eternal fate is based on personal choices regarding sin and acceptance of Jesus Christ rather than their inherent nature.
It is emphasized that once individuals understand the difference between good and evil, they become accountable for their actions and decisions regarding faith.
The Importance of Discernment in Conversations
"Sometimes it's okay not to know when to shut up."
Pastor Tim shares a personal anecdote about a social gathering where an overflowing glass of wine made them uncomfortable. They reflect on how their silence was not only their choice but also mirrored the decisions of others at the table who chose not to indulge. This moment became a lesson in understanding the dynamics of group behavior and how individual actions can influence others.
Pastor Tim emphasizes that in discussions about doctrinal matters, especially regarding Calvinism, it is crucial to discern when to speak up and when to listen. They believe that certain teachings can misrepresent the nature of God and humanity, highlighting that everyone is a sinner in need of grace.
This grace, they argue, is abundant and available to anyone willing to come to God in repentance and faith. The discussion underlines the necessity of grounding beliefs in Scripture rather than personal interpretations.
The Burden of Misrepresentation in Theology
"God's grace is such that it saves anyone who will come to Him in repentance and faith."
Pastor Tim expresses concern over how Calvinist teachings can distort the true nature of God and humanity. They argue that these misconceptions can have a far-reaching impact on churches and beliefs within their convention.
They assert that everyone, regardless of their past, has the opportunity to be saved through God's grace, which is generous and not limited to a select few. This reassurance aims to encourage congregants to reflect on the Gospel's universal invitation to salvation.
Summary from youtubesummarized.com
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