It's always hard to answer a question in 3 mins or so. Calvary Chapel should continue in its best intentions to run towards the heart of Christ in a reckless abandon. But Christians can disagree on many things that are more obscure, for example, the entire book of Revelation. Staci, I am not sure how this applies to Calvinism. If one is true the other is false. Equipping the Church, Engaging the Culture. JavaScript is disabled. I studied under Dr. George Grant. In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity. The previous statement was why they were not accepted. This is where (John 14:6) comes into play Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: NO MAN COMETH UNTO THE FATHER, BUT BY ME. Ezekiel 18 and all of Jesus' "Whosoever will" comments make a clear case that man can choose God. It was wonderfulat that time. [quote:8631e5b913]In addition, we reject "5-point Calvinism". This often brings clarity to the discussion. Thats carnality. June 2019 The controversial episode is based on the premise of a caller who had a conversation with a Calvinist friend and was seeking advice. Even Peter admits that some things Paul writes are hard to understand (2 Pet. Very friendly congregation. We need to not treat non-essentials as essentials. I didn't know I was elected 'till I received Christ as my Lord and Savior.3)It was not'till a long time after my conversion, I learned that I chose to love Him cause He first chose to love me. PART 2Now I know many if not all that read this and get to this point are shaking their head and saying we cannot see the Father or I have not seen the Father but the bible says otherwise. Yes, I am 5-point. Calvary Chapels should continue to teach people to go to the Word for everything. 4 if you count the pastor. You've done a great job defending the Calvinist view. The aggressive rebukes on the Calvinist brother who dares question his pastor. . HelloThanks for replying to my comment. Here's the catch at Calvary, dear leader predicted the rapture in 1981, and the Bible says not to put faith in false prophets. These words rival the position of Calvary Chapel when it is said, We welcome believers who disagree with us to our fellowship,. all the rest we're like the guy who jumped up on his horse and rode off in a thousand different directions preaching and teaching was awful boring. It isnt wrong to desire unity in the Calvary Chapel denomination. The abuse that conjures up in the wake of the anti-Calvinist sentiment leaves the Calvinist brother inside of the Calvary Chapel treated as a second class Christian at best. Well done. one Pastor what happened to be the church I attended was the only Pastor who preached and taught as an Expositor and he was really great. I presented theological evidence from Calvary Chapels theological standards, evidence from the words of many pastors contradicting themselves, and personal witness- which on the account of two or three witnesses is the righteous standard of Biblical Law. "Now when I've brought this (verse) up to Calvinists they tend to say, 'Well that's a hard verse, we don't really know what it means, let's not talk about it.' They have a morning worship and and evening worship. (John 6:44-47) NOT THAT ANY MAN HATH SEEN THE FATHER, SAVE HE WHICH IS OF GOD, HE HATH SEEN THE FATHER.This verse says not that any man has seen the father, except He (the man) which is of God, he hath seen the father. In 2011 at a Pastors Conference Chuck Smith said, There is no room in the Calvary Chapel movement for Calvinist pastors., Calvary Chapel has no desire to be dogmatic, in areas where Bible believers and teachers have disagreed.. Of course it's a hard verse because it contradicts their theories. For example, if a cultist presents a proof text for their position it may take me 10 minutes to explain the context and background in order to refute them. What the Area head Pastor says is what goes despite the congregation. Ive been part of leadership and never heard it being brought up in terms of judging someone within the church - ever. The grace of the Arminian theology is also reflected in Calvary Chapels official position, We believe that Gods grace can be resisted by us., as respects the mode of the operation of this grace, it is not. In the beginning of Calvary Chapels movement it was seemingly a true hybrid in which both camps could start a fire. Unfortunately, this is not what happens. You've also done a great job arguing for, and demonstrating how Christians ought to handle in-house debates (or any debate for that matter) by actually building legitimate support for your argument without making pejorative comments about the people you're arguing against. People come and go, especially since we gather near an Air Force base, and Ive remained friends with many who have moved on for various reasons. Some Calvary Chapels never mention the subject of Calvinism. preaching through the entire Bible, book by book). "Circular Reasoning", Hermeneutics 101: Old Testament Narratives. No cohesiveness to it whatsoever . ", 3. I have grown by leaps and bounds as a Christian at my Calvary Chapel church and the focus has always been about reading and receiving the Bible verse-by-verse, never cherry-picking scripture out of context for the purpose of fitting a chosen topic. Ha! I know a church in Scranton, PA that went independant from Calvery Chapel last year due to the increased adherance of the leadership to Reformed doctrine. And I'd much rather be at a conservative Calvary Chapel than a woke Calvinist church. But this is really the fault of the hosts. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. I can't get a decent Church to attend at the moment. 
Instead of welcoming Calvinists as believing brothers and sisters, they are likened to cultists. This is because Arminianism is truly a heresy and God calls no man to preach heresies! But I'd like to stick with the Bible and not with the theories of these guys. For the dear brothers and sisters committed to these churches: take time to speak to your Calvinist brother and not about him. When God decreed that His elect was chosen before time began, it is nowhere implied that because He decreed it, the event of becoming a believer occurred at the moment He decreed it to be. The atonement is no different and is in complete coherence, Calvary Chapel says, We believe that Jesus Christ died as a propitiation (a satisfaction of the righteous wrath of God against sin) for the whole world, and that He redeems and forgives all who will believe in the death and resurrection if Jesus Christ., Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, died for all men and for every man, so that he has obtained for them all, by his death on the cross, redemption, and the forgiveness of sins; yet that no one actually enjoys this forgiveness of sins, except the believer,. I wonder how they justify the "T", "U", and "P" without the "L" and "I" ? It is also why I have difficulty believing any leader in any church that preaches any part of Arminianism is called to preach or be a leader in the church at all. Whatever may be said of the Arminian theology, no honest Calvinistic scholar would dare attempt to take Jesus from them. Ibelieve the Westminster Confession of Faith is a faithful description of Gods revelation. The welcoming attitude to those who disagree is rare. "There is no truth!" God doesn't really mean "world" in Jn 3:16, which takes three paragraphs to explain.I understand what you mean and I agree. The goal of this blog is to provide brief, deep and engaging posts about theology, everyday life and other stuff as well. Although it is vague and not very specific, it has a Calvinistic sound to it and seems to imply the inability of man to turn to Christ due to an enslaved human will. ", Be dilligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (2 Tim. I went there because a close friend and neighborhood single dad went there. I think you were right to be concerned about Brians comments. Context is King. You may have a pastoral lineage and may like the vain idea of your thoughts and growth being on the internet for your future lineage and the world to see, but you will be held accountable for every single person you led astray with your frustration and bitterness that is published on this blog. In a noble attempt to prevent division and prolong unity, Calvary Chapel attempts to straddle the fence. Although these claims have persisted over the years, it has become abundantly clear that Calvary Chapel is aggressively anti-Calvinist. Do not let a person walk away from you thinking youre abrasive and mean, represent the gospel of grace with grace. You did a great job explaining your observations, objections and the Calvinist view. The gossip sessions full of ignorance and lacking love in the matter of their oh-so wrong reformed brethren. It is written in the prophets, AND THEY SHALL BE ALL TAUGHT OF GOD. If anything else I want to have somewhere to keep my thoughts. As a home educating mother, I *must* be able to explain the Bible simply and fully. Calvary Chapel should recognize that Gods heart is revealed through His scriptures and His doctrines. November 2019 Calvary Chapels have no desire to be dogmatic in areas where Bible believers and teachers have disagreed.. The public slaughter of the Calvinistic view with no attempt to rightly represent the theology correctly, surrounded by snickers and insulting remarks is the antithesis of welcoming. We are a come-as-you-are church 1000% and mean it - we accept everyone and love them as Christ would love them. At Calvary Chapel, we believe that Jesus died on the Cross for all the sins of all people, and that anyone who wants to can accept Him as Lord and savior and be born again. We should always be willing to re-examine our own traditions and interpretations in light of the truth of Scripture. Many doctrines such as original sin, salvation by grace through faith, etc., do no directly deal with the deity of Christ but are still worth debating.Calvary takes a neutral stance because they are not hard lined for either Armenianism or Calvanism since there are Scriptures that discuss choice, will and predestination.I don't know that I would classify their stance as neutral, especially given the comments by Brian and other calvary chapel leaders. Calvary Chapel Golden Springs leaves the order of faith and regeneration a mystery as to what exactly they believe. That's not Jesus. I appreciate your article. Yes, I am not a dispensational premillennialist. Again, both sides can preach the gospel message without hesitation. April 2020 Im not going to let Im of Calvin divide me from them. Otherwise, we follow what Colossians tells us to do regarding less weightier matters. (1 John 4:19), Anonymous,Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Calvary Chapel Aurora in Colorado says in their statement of faith section 9, We are neither Five-Point Calvinists, nor are we Arminians. Sooner would the Calvinist brother be confronted by pastor and friends than the brother consistently having premarital sex or the brother indulging in drunkenness for every special occasion. This causes them to pick a side instead of taking the post-modern, no-truth, kumbaya'n route. No longer is the reformed brothers attempt to explain, exhort, encourage, or evangelize accepted. I personally heard Chuck Smith say there is only one book other than the Bible I read every year. Jasso History Calvary Chapel is inherently Arminian in theology and are not welcoming to their Calvinistic brothers as Chuck Smith claimed in Calvary Chapels official position. Calvary Chapel answers this question by saying, Maintaining a Bible centered balance in this difficult issue is of great importance.. I believe God tugs at every mans heart but God gives man the choice to make whether that means to accept or reject him. With the elect there is a clear mark of delineation I call the event horizon where one of the elect that are unregenerate becomes regenerate. Aaron,I really enjoyed your article. The question is, which one is right?Which is likely why Brian said don't argue over this. The event of the great flood did not happen until the flood happened, not when God announced it would happen over a hundred years earlier. [quote:f0d6757da8][i:f0d6757da8]Originally posted by houseparent[/i:f0d6757da8], [quote:100e782b3b][i:100e782b3b]Originally posted by Ianterrell[/i:100e782b3b]. "You know I've often said about Calvinism guysCalvinism is Christianity without Jesus because they leave Jesus out of the equation. They get a number of verses under their belt and just argue around those verses. As a home educating mother, I *must* be able to explain the Bible simply and fully.I agree, but again I am failing to see what this has to do with Calvinism. The Sovereignty of God by Arthur Pink. There is nothing more contraire in terms than an arrogant calvinist. None that accept his testimony have not seen the Father because they do not believe in the Son. (Of course, I could tell our son that "the book of Revelation rounds out the biblical canon with an eschatalogical vision".) Larry believes that the college should be for confessing believers, Chuck wants it open to even the unsaved. It made Calvinism more understandable. Plurality of elders isn't commanded explicitly, but plurality is seen I think rather clearly in the apostles writings. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? Calvary Chapels have been known for claiming to ride the fence in between Arminianism and Calvinism, in order to avoid division over such an issue. How can anyone that cant understand the true Gospel be called to lead others in Christ and preach His word? It goes as follows: 1. One example of how a child can and should be able to understand it --last week, I was reading from Judges with our son - just turned 7 -- and we were working out where Jesus appeared in His pre-incarnate form. This is a key point because of what Romans 1 saysFOR THE WRATH OF GOD IS REVEALED FROM HEAVEN AGAINST ALL UNGODLINESS OF MEN AND UNRIGHTEOUSNESS OF ME, WHO HOLD THE TRUTH IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS; BECAUSE THAT WHICH MAY BE KNOWN OF GOD IS MANIFESTED IN THEM: FOR GOD HATH SHEWED IT UNTO THEM!!!!!! and pastors viciously attackd calvinistls , Augustine ,and Calvin himself repeatedly with snickering and shouting and just pure hatred . The very truth that can vindicate a sinful man. Jeremiah- I appreciate your thorough and balanced commentary. However, just to reiterate, the length of an explanation does not determine whether or not it is true. 3:16).Thanks again for the dialogue. Some Calvary Chapels may have various five-part series refuting what they think is Calvinism. That is what I like about Calvary Chapel churches, at least the three that I have attended, is that they simply follow her the Bible says. This may, in part, be due to the old Calvary Chapel habit of personal Bible study. This attitude has also traveled into the heart of the people. Yes, I am a cessationist. Calvary Chapels official position on Calvinism, written in a booklet by Chuck Smith entitled, Calvinism, Arminianism, and the Word of God: A Calvary Chapel Perspective. Calvary takes a neutral stance because they are not hard lined for either Armenianism or Calvanism since there are Scriptures that discuss choice, will and predestination. Create your own unique website with customizable templates. (For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse): Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.(Romans 1:18-21)What has been revealed to the unrighteous man? I have also done extra studying with various commentaries and my own study Bible and nothing I have read in those platforms had ever been in conflict with my Calvary Chapel teaching. It is really an omission by Calvinists that only serves to give the Arminian ammunition take make the claim that it is a meaningless circular statement to say the saved will be saved and in terms of logic, blue is blue. The claims and goals of Calvary Chapel to be in the middle of each position have failed. To Bad. October 2020 It's pretty nice! While we understand that Gods promises can all be counted as true, His promises do not come true until the event happens. I dont recall ever hearing Chuck say that. Calvary Chapel affirms the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, We do believe in the perseverance of the saints (true believers), but are deeply concerned about sinful lifestyles and rebellious hearts among those who call themselves Christians.. I believe he was a Calvinist. Well done sir, Hello Although the audio clip/transcript gives a poor impression of the pastor, I do think he was limited by the format of the show. Id be curious to hear that. In respect to depravity Calvary Chapel says, We believe that none are righteous, or capable of doing good and that apart from the conviction and regeneration of the Holy Spirit, none can be saved.. We believe that God offers salvation to all who will call on His name., That God, by an eternal, unchangeable purpose in Jesus Christ, his Son, before the foundation of the world, hath determined, out of the fallen, sinful race of men, to save in Christ, for Christ's sake, and through Christ, those who, through the grace of the Holy Ghost, shall believe on this his Son Jesus,, Both Calvary Chapel, and Arminians alike believe in the predestination of salvation based on the foreknowledge of those who shall believe or those who will believe.. Calvary Chapels official stance on election is similar to, and in agreement with, that of the Arminian Articles, it says, We believe that God chose the believer before the foundation of the world, and based on His foreknowledge, has predestined the believer to be conformed to the image of His Son. Thats part of how I landed in Calvary. I have been at a Calvary Chapel for over ten years and it has never been discussed. I found some audio files from The Berean Call where the hosts focus on one specific aspect of Calvinism for about 7-10 mins, and that format seemed better to me. Anthea,Once again, thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and for continuing the dialogue. Oh Yea, a Pastor has to agree with all of the doctrines that the CC Church believes or he can not Pastor in one of their Churches. How they can't come together in conferences etc. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John 3:35-36)The second verse that my Calvinist brother use is (John 6:44-47) which sounds a lot like (John 6:37)No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. Staci, My friends tell me that the father won't draw all men to Christ, but this contradicts scripture because the bible says the father gives all things to the Son. Business This aggressive remark was followed up by the rumors of revoking ordinations of pastors who were Calvinistic. That is a heavy burden to bear and I hope you take it seriously and pray in earnest before each post to make sure your thoughts are in line with Gods will. 
But it is a debate within Christian circles and should be done with charity.We spend so much time arguing with each other about the finer points of doctrine that we cause division over something that doesn't matter. Larry's position is that spiritual things are only discerned by the spiritual; Chuck says, "Maybe someone will get saved while studying the scriptures" What attracted me (and many others I know) to the CC Church's was their no nonsense preaching. I appreciate that towards the end of your writing you finally admit that not all Calvary Chapels are as you stated and that some in fact do not even discuss Calvinism. Both Calvary Chapel and the Articles of the remonstrance claim an unlimited atonement. IF YOU HAD KNOWN ME If, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and HAVE SEEN HIM. (John 14:7)So in short the Father draws all men to Christ, but not all men will not come through Christ to the Father because not all men will accept the testimony of Christ that He is Lord and Savior and the Son of the Living God. Satan loves this because we neglect to focus on what is true and noble.Yes, and this is why the comments by Brian I think are unhelpful. "or this one"Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessedare those who have not seen and yet have believed.". The simplicity of the gospel message can be preached by both Arminians and Calvinists. We cant mix the two either because Arminianism + Calvinism (always) = Arminianism. In order to answer the Arminian false logic we must be able to address the specifics of their misunderstanding and misdirection and not just stick to an overall correct view that ignores the specifics. ", 5. I am a Calvinist that attends a Calvary Chapel. If not, thats fine. We avoid any theological systems of belief that go beyond the written Word and thereby divide the body of Christ.. Your article seems to discourage people from attending a Calvary Chapel and that is no different than telling people to stop going to church, because there is no guarantee that someone who leaves will immediately go somewhere else and that will quickly lead to not going at all. We are dedicated to our historic Creeds and Confessions because we believe they are faithful to the Scriptures. I have no need to bring everyone to my positions/distinctives. Granted, his example may have been poor by using a cult but you missed the point of which was the argument is never ending because each person will hold firmly to their original posture because of what they "know" and have learned about certain verses. "but to me it exposed the big issue with Calvinism: If it takes a whole paragraph to reexplain John 3:16 or Romans 6:23 (just picking two verses as examples), then the Word becomes ineffective. We had some very gifted people that could have stepped into the Pulpit who had degrees but they were overlooked even though the congregation wanted them. Satan loves this because we neglect to focus on what is true and noble. It must be noted that every Calvary Chapel is very different. Second, truth is not determined by length. 
But some of the contradictions left me in a faith crisis by the 1990s. I would like to reply to a couple things you mentioned. Now the theological insight into the grieving of a lost one is not asked for because of the notorious reputation and gossip sessions that have occurred over the name of this Calvinist brother. It is meant to be understood because we are meant to respond to it.Both Calvinists and Arminians would hold to the perspicuity of Scripture, but this does not mean that every passage is equally clear. Even the ungodly man had to have the truth because how can he suppress the truth in unrighteousness while not having it. God bless brothers and Sisters and my apologize for the long message. On top of that I also believe that Jesus is currently reigning from His seat at the right hand of the Father (Psalm 110). 2:15), John Calvin: Knowledge of God, Knowledge of Self, Logical Fallacy: "Begging the Question" a.k.a. The last Church I attended for about a year and a half after my divorce was a Horizon Fellowship. One must have truth to suppress it. If they agree - great! this was a Cult like type of atmosphere and it turned out my pastor is a fanatic, a tyrant , a dictator and a hypocrite who slandered me and falsely accused me beyond belief and told me not to come back even though I told him I believe 100% in human responsibility and God's sovereignty but he was not satisfied because I gave a book to someone at the church by aw pink on Elijah commentary on Elijah whichas nothing to do with free will or arminianism or Calvinism and so I told him I would not hand out any books anymore and he said that wasn't good enough and I was not welcome to ever come back again now I know he will lie to the people there that I met and probably tell them something like we agreed to disagree, or he may just ignore the fact that I'm not even attending there anymore at his demands not mine. "Absolutely, but again I'm not sure what this has to do with Calvinism. We all left when the head Pastor of the area went against the will of the congregation and picked a Pastor that the congregation didn't want. EVERY MAN THEREFORE THAT HATH HEARD, AND HATH LEARNED OF THE FATHER, COMETH UNTO ME.According to what is written It's not that every man that is drawn by the Father is automatically saved in Christ it's the man that see the Father. May 2020 In the popular episode of Pastors Perspective thoroughly refuted by Dr. James White, the heart of Calvary Chapel towards Calvinism can be seen. In other words, Brian's misleading and inaccurate comments have nothing to do with how much time he had to utter them! They were more leaneant concerning my Calvinism than they were my amil position. Who has time for labels and getting caught up in this theory over that one? 25:34, Mark 8:36, John 12:19). For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Now the supposedly all-welcoming Calvary Chapel, which has its doors open to Calvinists and Arminians alike, is crumbling in the open. Charles Spurgeon, who was a vigorous defender of Calvinism, said of an Arminian brother, While I detest many of the doctrines which he preached, yet for the man himself I have a reverence second to no Wesleyan; and if there were wanted two apostles to be added to the number of the twelve, I do not believe that there could be found two men more fit to be so added than George Whitefield and John Wesley.. Once saved always saved or you lose your salvationwherever you stand the arguments for both can be supported in Scriptures.Both cannot be supported from Scripture unless you are willing to admit contradictions. Many Calvinists and Arminians would argue that this is a weighty matter and worthy of debate. The rumors of the once strong and Godly brother who, based on the reasoning of a vague account of an ignorant sermon, doesnt believe in the love of God any longer. Both are simply exerting with a noble effort to push in the right direction, but let us not miss the point; These two apparently different theologies are completely coherent. You did not interact with any of the evidence presented. ", 4. July 2019 Otherwise, we follow what Colossians tells us to do regarding less weightier matters. It is true that Bible study must be thorough, but explanations of the Bible need not be wordy or overtly academic. We must always remember that there are not any three or four point Calvinists because removing one of the points makes you an Arminian. Anthea,Thank you for commenting and sharing your thoughts. This confirms what God says in (John 3:35-36) THE FATHER LOVES THE SON, AND HAS GIVEN ALL THINGS INTO HIS HANDSBecause (John 6:44-47)says, AND THEY SHALL BE ALL TAUGHT OF GOD. 1 Corinthians 2 and Romans 9 are so clear when read in context. The main things and the plain things and the plain things are the main things. Interesting. , attempts to straddle the fence on the debate: Calvary Chapel has been known for striking a balance between extremes on controversial theological issues that have often caused division rather than unity in the body of Christ. [quote:4fcd88edc7][i:4fcd88edc7]Originally posted by webmaster[/i:4fcd88edc7], [quote:8365c9a818][i:8365c9a818]Originally posted by BrianLanier[/i:8365c9a818]. Great advice to Calvary Chapel. Lastly, seek Gods will in possibly leaving your Calvary Chapel to find a better fitting church. March 2019, All Please check your heart on this matter and ask God to show you if He is pleased with what you are doing here. The slippery slope of complacency. I have been blessed by listening to John MacArthur, RC Sproul, Voddie Baucham, Jack Hibbs, Al Pittman, Ed Taylor, and I can think of others as well. I didn't become a member because of my doctrinal stances. I have recently attended a Calvary Chapel for approximately 100 hours and then have Met and fellowshipped with many Godly Christians there. Chuck Smith gives a 5-point statement explaining what Calvary Chapel believes about the doctrines of grace, and in so doing, indirectly points Calvary Chapel to Arminian theology.
Instead of welcoming Calvinists as believing brothers and sisters, they are likened to cultists. This is because Arminianism is truly a heresy and God calls no man to preach heresies! But I'd like to stick with the Bible and not with the theories of these guys. For the dear brothers and sisters committed to these churches: take time to speak to your Calvinist brother and not about him. When God decreed that His elect was chosen before time began, it is nowhere implied that because He decreed it, the event of becoming a believer occurred at the moment He decreed it to be. The atonement is no different and is in complete coherence, Calvary Chapel says, We believe that Jesus Christ died as a propitiation (a satisfaction of the righteous wrath of God against sin) for the whole world, and that He redeems and forgives all who will believe in the death and resurrection if Jesus Christ., Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, died for all men and for every man, so that he has obtained for them all, by his death on the cross, redemption, and the forgiveness of sins; yet that no one actually enjoys this forgiveness of sins, except the believer,. I wonder how they justify the "T", "U", and "P" without the "L" and "I" ? It is also why I have difficulty believing any leader in any church that preaches any part of Arminianism is called to preach or be a leader in the church at all. Whatever may be said of the Arminian theology, no honest Calvinistic scholar would dare attempt to take Jesus from them. Ibelieve the Westminster Confession of Faith is a faithful description of Gods revelation. The welcoming attitude to those who disagree is rare. "There is no truth!" God doesn't really mean "world" in Jn 3:16, which takes three paragraphs to explain.I understand what you mean and I agree. The goal of this blog is to provide brief, deep and engaging posts about theology, everyday life and other stuff as well. Although it is vague and not very specific, it has a Calvinistic sound to it and seems to imply the inability of man to turn to Christ due to an enslaved human will. ", Be dilligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (2 Tim. I went there because a close friend and neighborhood single dad went there. I think you were right to be concerned about Brians comments. Context is King. You may have a pastoral lineage and may like the vain idea of your thoughts and growth being on the internet for your future lineage and the world to see, but you will be held accountable for every single person you led astray with your frustration and bitterness that is published on this blog. In a noble attempt to prevent division and prolong unity, Calvary Chapel attempts to straddle the fence. Although these claims have persisted over the years, it has become abundantly clear that Calvary Chapel is aggressively anti-Calvinist. Do not let a person walk away from you thinking youre abrasive and mean, represent the gospel of grace with grace. You did a great job explaining your observations, objections and the Calvinist view. The gossip sessions full of ignorance and lacking love in the matter of their oh-so wrong reformed brethren. It is written in the prophets, AND THEY SHALL BE ALL TAUGHT OF GOD. If anything else I want to have somewhere to keep my thoughts. As a home educating mother, I *must* be able to explain the Bible simply and fully. Calvary Chapel should recognize that Gods heart is revealed through His scriptures and His doctrines. November 2019 Calvary Chapels have no desire to be dogmatic in areas where Bible believers and teachers have disagreed.. The public slaughter of the Calvinistic view with no attempt to rightly represent the theology correctly, surrounded by snickers and insulting remarks is the antithesis of welcoming. We are a come-as-you-are church 1000% and mean it - we accept everyone and love them as Christ would love them. At Calvary Chapel, we believe that Jesus died on the Cross for all the sins of all people, and that anyone who wants to can accept Him as Lord and savior and be born again. We should always be willing to re-examine our own traditions and interpretations in light of the truth of Scripture. Many doctrines such as original sin, salvation by grace through faith, etc., do no directly deal with the deity of Christ but are still worth debating.Calvary takes a neutral stance because they are not hard lined for either Armenianism or Calvanism since there are Scriptures that discuss choice, will and predestination.I don't know that I would classify their stance as neutral, especially given the comments by Brian and other calvary chapel leaders. Calvary Chapel Golden Springs leaves the order of faith and regeneration a mystery as to what exactly they believe. That's not Jesus. I appreciate your article. Yes, I am not a dispensational premillennialist. Again, both sides can preach the gospel message without hesitation. April 2020 Im not going to let Im of Calvin divide me from them. Otherwise, we follow what Colossians tells us to do regarding less weightier matters. (1 John 4:19), Anonymous,Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Calvary Chapel Aurora in Colorado says in their statement of faith section 9, We are neither Five-Point Calvinists, nor are we Arminians. Sooner would the Calvinist brother be confronted by pastor and friends than the brother consistently having premarital sex or the brother indulging in drunkenness for every special occasion. This causes them to pick a side instead of taking the post-modern, no-truth, kumbaya'n route. No longer is the reformed brothers attempt to explain, exhort, encourage, or evangelize accepted. I personally heard Chuck Smith say there is only one book other than the Bible I read every year. Jasso History Calvary Chapel is inherently Arminian in theology and are not welcoming to their Calvinistic brothers as Chuck Smith claimed in Calvary Chapels official position. Calvary Chapel answers this question by saying, Maintaining a Bible centered balance in this difficult issue is of great importance.. I believe God tugs at every mans heart but God gives man the choice to make whether that means to accept or reject him. With the elect there is a clear mark of delineation I call the event horizon where one of the elect that are unregenerate becomes regenerate. Aaron,I really enjoyed your article. The question is, which one is right?Which is likely why Brian said don't argue over this. The event of the great flood did not happen until the flood happened, not when God announced it would happen over a hundred years earlier. [quote:f0d6757da8][i:f0d6757da8]Originally posted by houseparent[/i:f0d6757da8], [quote:100e782b3b][i:100e782b3b]Originally posted by Ianterrell[/i:100e782b3b]. "You know I've often said about Calvinism guysCalvinism is Christianity without Jesus because they leave Jesus out of the equation. They get a number of verses under their belt and just argue around those verses. As a home educating mother, I *must* be able to explain the Bible simply and fully.I agree, but again I am failing to see what this has to do with Calvinism. The Sovereignty of God by Arthur Pink. There is nothing more contraire in terms than an arrogant calvinist. None that accept his testimony have not seen the Father because they do not believe in the Son. (Of course, I could tell our son that "the book of Revelation rounds out the biblical canon with an eschatalogical vision".) Larry believes that the college should be for confessing believers, Chuck wants it open to even the unsaved. It made Calvinism more understandable. Plurality of elders isn't commanded explicitly, but plurality is seen I think rather clearly in the apostles writings. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? Calvary Chapels have been known for claiming to ride the fence in between Arminianism and Calvinism, in order to avoid division over such an issue. How can anyone that cant understand the true Gospel be called to lead others in Christ and preach His word? It goes as follows: 1. One example of how a child can and should be able to understand it --last week, I was reading from Judges with our son - just turned 7 -- and we were working out where Jesus appeared in His pre-incarnate form. This is a key point because of what Romans 1 saysFOR THE WRATH OF GOD IS REVEALED FROM HEAVEN AGAINST ALL UNGODLINESS OF MEN AND UNRIGHTEOUSNESS OF ME, WHO HOLD THE TRUTH IN UNRIGHTEOUSNESS; BECAUSE THAT WHICH MAY BE KNOWN OF GOD IS MANIFESTED IN THEM: FOR GOD HATH SHEWED IT UNTO THEM!!!!!! and pastors viciously attackd calvinistls , Augustine ,and Calvin himself repeatedly with snickering and shouting and just pure hatred . The very truth that can vindicate a sinful man. Jeremiah- I appreciate your thorough and balanced commentary. However, just to reiterate, the length of an explanation does not determine whether or not it is true. 3:16).Thanks again for the dialogue. Some Calvary Chapels may have various five-part series refuting what they think is Calvinism. That is what I like about Calvary Chapel churches, at least the three that I have attended, is that they simply follow her the Bible says. This may, in part, be due to the old Calvary Chapel habit of personal Bible study. This attitude has also traveled into the heart of the people. Yes, I am a cessationist. Calvary Chapels official position on Calvinism, written in a booklet by Chuck Smith entitled, Calvinism, Arminianism, and the Word of God: A Calvary Chapel Perspective. Calvary takes a neutral stance because they are not hard lined for either Armenianism or Calvanism since there are Scriptures that discuss choice, will and predestination. Create your own unique website with customizable templates. (For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse): Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.(Romans 1:18-21)What has been revealed to the unrighteous man? I have also done extra studying with various commentaries and my own study Bible and nothing I have read in those platforms had ever been in conflict with my Calvary Chapel teaching. It is really an omission by Calvinists that only serves to give the Arminian ammunition take make the claim that it is a meaningless circular statement to say the saved will be saved and in terms of logic, blue is blue. The claims and goals of Calvary Chapel to be in the middle of each position have failed. To Bad. October 2020 It's pretty nice! While we understand that Gods promises can all be counted as true, His promises do not come true until the event happens. I dont recall ever hearing Chuck say that. Calvary Chapel affirms the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, We do believe in the perseverance of the saints (true believers), but are deeply concerned about sinful lifestyles and rebellious hearts among those who call themselves Christians.. I believe he was a Calvinist. Well done sir, Hello Although the audio clip/transcript gives a poor impression of the pastor, I do think he was limited by the format of the show. Id be curious to hear that. In respect to depravity Calvary Chapel says, We believe that none are righteous, or capable of doing good and that apart from the conviction and regeneration of the Holy Spirit, none can be saved.. We believe that God offers salvation to all who will call on His name., That God, by an eternal, unchangeable purpose in Jesus Christ, his Son, before the foundation of the world, hath determined, out of the fallen, sinful race of men, to save in Christ, for Christ's sake, and through Christ, those who, through the grace of the Holy Ghost, shall believe on this his Son Jesus,, Both Calvary Chapel, and Arminians alike believe in the predestination of salvation based on the foreknowledge of those who shall believe or those who will believe.. Calvary Chapels official stance on election is similar to, and in agreement with, that of the Arminian Articles, it says, We believe that God chose the believer before the foundation of the world, and based on His foreknowledge, has predestined the believer to be conformed to the image of His Son. Thats part of how I landed in Calvary. I have been at a Calvary Chapel for over ten years and it has never been discussed. I found some audio files from The Berean Call where the hosts focus on one specific aspect of Calvinism for about 7-10 mins, and that format seemed better to me. Anthea,Once again, thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and for continuing the dialogue. Oh Yea, a Pastor has to agree with all of the doctrines that the CC Church believes or he can not Pastor in one of their Churches. How they can't come together in conferences etc. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John 3:35-36)The second verse that my Calvinist brother use is (John 6:44-47) which sounds a lot like (John 6:37)No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. Staci, My friends tell me that the father won't draw all men to Christ, but this contradicts scripture because the bible says the father gives all things to the Son. Business This aggressive remark was followed up by the rumors of revoking ordinations of pastors who were Calvinistic. That is a heavy burden to bear and I hope you take it seriously and pray in earnest before each post to make sure your thoughts are in line with Gods will. But it is a debate within Christian circles and should be done with charity.We spend so much time arguing with each other about the finer points of doctrine that we cause division over something that doesn't matter. Larry's position is that spiritual things are only discerned by the spiritual; Chuck says, "Maybe someone will get saved while studying the scriptures" What attracted me (and many others I know) to the CC Church's was their no nonsense preaching. I appreciate that towards the end of your writing you finally admit that not all Calvary Chapels are as you stated and that some in fact do not even discuss Calvinism. Both Calvary Chapel and the Articles of the remonstrance claim an unlimited atonement. IF YOU HAD KNOWN ME If, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and HAVE SEEN HIM. (John 14:7)So in short the Father draws all men to Christ, but not all men will not come through Christ to the Father because not all men will accept the testimony of Christ that He is Lord and Savior and the Son of the Living God. Satan loves this because we neglect to focus on what is true and noble.Yes, and this is why the comments by Brian I think are unhelpful. "or this one"Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessedare those who have not seen and yet have believed.". The simplicity of the gospel message can be preached by both Arminians and Calvinists. We cant mix the two either because Arminianism + Calvinism (always) = Arminianism. In order to answer the Arminian false logic we must be able to address the specifics of their misunderstanding and misdirection and not just stick to an overall correct view that ignores the specifics. ", 5. I am a Calvinist that attends a Calvary Chapel. If not, thats fine. We avoid any theological systems of belief that go beyond the written Word and thereby divide the body of Christ.. Your article seems to discourage people from attending a Calvary Chapel and that is no different than telling people to stop going to church, because there is no guarantee that someone who leaves will immediately go somewhere else and that will quickly lead to not going at all. We are dedicated to our historic Creeds and Confessions because we believe they are faithful to the Scriptures. I have no need to bring everyone to my positions/distinctives. Granted, his example may have been poor by using a cult but you missed the point of which was the argument is never ending because each person will hold firmly to their original posture because of what they "know" and have learned about certain verses. "but to me it exposed the big issue with Calvinism: If it takes a whole paragraph to reexplain John 3:16 or Romans 6:23 (just picking two verses as examples), then the Word becomes ineffective. We had some very gifted people that could have stepped into the Pulpit who had degrees but they were overlooked even though the congregation wanted them. Satan loves this because we neglect to focus on what is true and noble. It must be noted that every Calvary Chapel is very different. Second, truth is not determined by length.