Calvin & Arminius: There's no difference!

I spent nearly 2 years researching John Calvin and Jacob Arminus, and I was surprised to discover very little theological difference between the pair of them. What was apparent, however, was the violence, bullying and murder (60 people were killed in Geneva) that Calvin was guilty of, while James Arminius comes across as moderate and of a gentle nature.

My 60-page thesis is an in-depth exploration into the world of the French Reformer and his subsequent followers.

http://www.excatholicsforchrist.com/inde...amined.htm

I think I know where you are coming from on this James. Where I spent my studies between the two doctrines, it almost seems to be two people defending the same argument from two different sides.

I try not to determine a correct doctrine by the follower who either follows it or purports it. There are many claming "christians" out there that support christianity, yet I would not be numbered with them. And there are other heathens that believe our same doctrine.

I thank God that we are judged by our hearts, and not by our doctrines.

I do have to say that I do not believe the arminian belief that we have a complete and total "free-will" before and/or after salvation. That seems to me to be the most selfish doctrine I have ever heard. But then again, the interpretation of "free-will" can be just as confusing as the doctrine of "predestination" is to others.

I choose to position myself away from these labels, as they do not accomplish anything.

What I do try to tell people is that the critical aspect is neither one of these, but the identification of humanism in ones life. that is the battle we must combat.

We need to realize and live the doctrine of Christ over "self". We need to recognize our insult against deity. We need to realize our guilt before God. We need to repent against self, and turn to our creator who deserves nothing less than complete obedience to the one true Living God.

It's not about us, it's all about Jesus Christ.

Love in Christ,

Jim

Amen!

In Christ

Ray

Sometimes it can be a question of semantics and approaching the same topic from 2 different angles. It is important to be balanced on this issue and simply get on with the job of evangelism.

Kind regards to all.

Bob