What is Calvinism? LIVE Q&A! Feb 1 w/ Pastor David Guzik

𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝟏𝟐𝐏𝐌 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 / 𝟑𝐏𝐌 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐐&𝐀 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦!
Welcome to the weekly live Q&A with Pastor David Guzik, author of the Enduring Word Bible commentary. After our lead question, Pastor David takes questions via the live chat - simply add your questions & our moderators will arrange & deliver them to Pastor David according to theme or subject!
This week, Pastor David's lead question comes from Henry via email - "I have to say, I'm a bit confused about Calvinism. Calvinism appears confusing and divisive. What's to know?"
Resources:
🔎📖 Use the search function on the Enduring Word website to dig deeper into the thousands of pages of free Bible commentary, in 10+ languages: enduringword.com/
📘 Standing in Grace / Firmes En La Gracia / Ich Stehe Auf Gnade - David Guzik's personal work extolling the wonder and power of God's grace in the life of believers: a.co/d/gaaQyta
📱 Download the Enduring Word app for free today!
iPhone: apple.co/3X1sryZ
Android: bit.ly/3ixdC8f
This week's questions
0:00 Greetings and introduction
1:22 Lead question (see above)
8:49 Points of disagreement concerning Calvinism
15:05 Charles Spurgeon
​21:30 If Salvation is Faith alone in Christ Alone, not of works. Why do so many focus on works as if its a determining factor of our salvation?
​24:05 Don’t calvinist focus on works and sin, in so far as, if someone is sinning a certain way, they question their salvation?
​24:50 Why does God strike Uzzah dead yet he was doing the right thing? Ananias and saphra are killed without mercy. In apologetics How do we defend that God is merciful presented with both scenarios?
28:45 In 1 John 5:14, did John write this to believers who had Doubts about who Jesus was and what he has done, or did he write it to give assurance to believers that they can pray to God and He will hear them only if they ask according to His will?
​30:20 In what ways does the blood of Jesus work objectively. and how can we apply it "to overcome by the blood of the lamb," Revelations 12:11. ​Is it OK to pray; "I cover my car ,house, my city or the roads with the blood of Jesus" Does the blood work that way? How should we use Jesus blood in prayer?
​34:40 Hey David, now for some time we go to a Pentecostal church. We are not growing in the faith. What should we do? Go from "church to church" or stay at the Pentecostal church?
38:21 ​How can i know i have real faith indeed, as i cant seem to overcome reoccurring doubts.
39:42 ​Can you explain 1 Corinthians 7:12-14 & 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 in light of each other?
43:35 Are the demons, the people in hell, the pharisees who blasphemed the holy ghost and the ones who take the mark of the beast the only creatures that can never be redeemed?
45:30 The baptism stated in Romans 6:4, is it the baptism with the Holy Spirit that John the Baptist and Jesus told us would take place or is it the baptism rite that Christians practice?
48:48 What is our Lords name? Is he Abraham’s God, Yahweh or is he named differently?
51:42 Manassa repented his sins and God forgave him. Why then does the Bible tells us that Judah went to captivity because of the sins and bloodshed Manasseh committed?
54:30 ​Do the dead know what is happening on earth?
57:15 A new church I am considering has a married lesbian couple that is open about their relationship. Is it my job to ask the pastor about this before joining? What should I do?
1:01:15 What scriptures would you use to show that belief in Once Saved Always Saved or Eternal Security is not required in order to receive Life?
1:03:24 Is it biblical that a pastor or his wife label himself or herself an Apostle?
1:04:40 ​Why isn't there a gospel written by Peter?
​1:05:05 if a Christian does a sin and is going to ask for forgiveness, but dies before asking, will they still go to heaven?
​1:05:45 Why in the OT did people live longer than the people in the NT?
​1:06:40 Books such as Kings & Chronicles almost always end with the sentence 'he slept with his fathers and they buried him in the city of David'. Where is this place nowadays? are there graves there still?
1:07:16 ​Who are the "kings of the earth" of REV 21:24? Are there people who are not living in the New Jerusalem?
1:07:57 ​How do you feel about the 7 day creation event fortelling that the end of times to be about 6000 yeara after Adam, and the 7th day being the 1000 day millennium?
1:09:11 ​Can a man & woman who desire to marry do so publicly in a church service but not get a license from the civil authority?
1:10:20 Regarding John 5:6, somebody was feeding him for 38 years but did not push him to the water when the Angel stirred up the water. Was that his real problem rather than his sickness?
1:11:45 David there are a few non believing co workers who I would love to invite & host bible studies with but I'm always afraid of doing something out of Gods timing, this one fear stops me from evangelizing
#biblestudy #christianity

[@nigeljohnston1148]

Here in Scotland we have many individuals who will continually talk about being Calvinist above talking about being a Christian. These individuals are puffed up and often arrogant in their approach to others. I have been asked many times what camp I’m in - my answer is I’m a born again Spirit filled Christian. I think it was Tozer who told a student to stay away from the debate of Calvinist vrs Armenian. He said, in three years time you will walk deeper with God while they are still in a locked room debating who is right. It’s okay to have an idea about what these teachings are saying, but walk with God, proclaim the name of Jesus in the power of the Spirit and with deep assurance.

[@johnnahdalfonso3606]

Let's keep close to the Bible friends and nothing else

[@bartleby1807]

Many Calvinists speak of "Sola scriptura" and than quote the reformers again and again. "Let's keep close to the Bible friends and nothing else" is a good advice. Greetings from Germany

[@theelfinator217]

@@bartleby1807 sola scriptura doesn’t mean we can’t learn for anyone/anything else. Scripture is the only infallible source for spiritual information, but we can still learn from other sources

[@peteragoston-petrosthemusi8260]

Yes. It's so simply and saves us from being influenced by lot of philosophy

[@maggiesacchi686]

Ha!...which bible?? 🤷

[@vdmerwejo]

I am also not a Calvanist, Arminian or whatever but a Christian. I only care what Christ is saying. Paul makes the same argument (see 1 Corinthians 1). As Christians I think we should not discuss the things of God on the basis what people are saying but rather speak from God’s Word and trust that the Spirit will reveal the truth, making our request for wisdom known to God through prayer.

[@user-bl2yu3ts3u]

You are correct friend ❤.... I don't recall reading about Calvinists in the Bible....this whole boring argument is a massive waste of time.....

[@andreasbenjamin2438]

True but you need to learn about their doctrines, because when you agree with those doctrines there's a consequence for your false accusations unto God. Calvinism has more things to avoid than Armenian

[@dylangraham5517]

Amen… we argue too much on what kind of Christian belief system or denomination we adhere to. Am I a Baptist? Am I a Presbyterian? Am I a Calvinist? Am I a Catholic? Am I a Methodist? Am I an Arminian? Am I a Protestant? I am a follower of Christ… a Christian, just like the first ones at Antioch were called. Psalm 119 tells us “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed.” Jesus throughout His ministry quoted Scripture. The Apostles of Christ were instructed to go out and preach the Gospel to all the nations. His Word is what I serve… not any denomination. Do you believe that Christ came through God’s mercy so that we may receive the free gift of forgiveness and salvation that He has offered us through Christ’s blood? Do you believe with all your heart that Christ paid for your sins? If so, YOU WILL DIE, and Christ will live in you… hence, I am a Christian; “I have been crucified with Christ. For it is not I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20)

[@andreasbenjamin2438]

@@dylangraham5517 do you believe in spiritual gifts? Do pray in tongues? Because so many so called christians don't believe in spiritual gifts are for today

[@dylangraham5517]

@@andreasbenjamin2438 Hey Andreas! 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12 inform us that the Holy Spirit, which came after Christ’s ascension into Heaven, gifts us in different ways… the Holy Spirit can gift us with the word of wisdom, the word of knowledge, faith, healing abilities, miracles, prophecy, the ability to distinguish between spirits, speaking in tongues, interpreting tongues, serving, teaching, exhorting, giving, leadership, and mercy. 1 Corinthians 12:11 tells us that the “Holy Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.” This means that while I for example might receive the spiritual gifts of mercy, faith, word of wisdom, and serving, you might have the spiritual gifts of giving, faith, word of knowledge, prophecy, and speaking in tongues. So to answer your question, yes, I think spiritual gifts do exist and I do believe they exist today because the Holy Spirit is with us! Jesus told His disciples that He will ask His Father to give them an advocate to walk with them… and that advocate is the Holy Spirit, whom “the world cannot receive”. Paul also mentions to the Corinthian Churches earlier in his epistle that the Holy Spirit is in them, whom they had received from God Almighty. If we die to our flesh so that Christ may now live in us, then the Holy Spirit will live in us and we will amazingly receive some of those spiritual gifts through His grace! I personally don’t care what spiritual gifts I receive… what I and all of us should care about is what we do with those spiritual gifts. We should be furthering His Kingdom with those spiritual gifts and spreading the Gospel to all who have ears to hear! Sorry for such a long-winded answer to a thoughtful, yet simple question lol.

[@charleslacy324]

I hate putting labels on people. Few if any 100% fit any label. Follow Christ and believe the gospel. Spread the gospel and love Christian brothers and sisters. We all might be shocked in heaven when we find out the truth.

[@donstanley6335]

I teach an adult Sunday school class and I always read your commentary as soon as I see what the scripture is in the lifeway quarterly that we use. As far as commentaries go yours is so unique and I absolutely love it. You are a blessing Pastor. Thank you!

[@rarah73]

Amen. Thankful for the faithful that came before us. However, Apollos, Paul, Calvin, Luther I do not know - Jesus Christ alone is whom I follow and in whom I boast. On the side of eternity I also believe they that have gone before us would tell us Jesus is all that matters. Therefore, as God our Father says, 'listen to him.'

[@casparblattmann755]

I am a Calvinist and appreciate your video. I think that to understand the first point “Radical corruption” (like RC Sproul would put it) leads to the understanding of the rest like Regeneration before birth. I was an Arminian and had no idea Calvinism existed (even though I grew up in Switzerland). Over time I became one through sermons. It was about a 10 year journey for me. I am absolutely convinced that Calvinistic understanding of the means of grace e is absolutely Biblical.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Thank you for sharing this, brother, welcome and God bless.

[@Chris-wf6km]

Calvin never provided in “Institutes” a shred of evidence to back up his in Spirit only doctrine of the Lord’s Supper and David Guzik cannot provide any evidence either. In John 6 Jesus Christ asked us to eat His flesh and drink His blood for compelling reasons. Later, at the Lord’s Supper, Jesus Christ showed us how to obey His request to eat and drink of Him via blessed bread and wine that has miraculously become His flesh and His blood. This is straightforward to understand and it takes wilful ignorance to put Calvin's in Spirit only theory before the Word of God who asked us to eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus Christ at the Lord's Supper - Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. The way to celebrate the Lord’s Supper as our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ intended is to be a member of the Catholic Church (includes Ordinariate) or Orthodox Church. Catholic and Orthodox Priests have received the Sacrament of Holy Orders from a Bishop of apostolic succession and thereby have the faculty to consecrate bread and wine to become the flesh and blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. There is no other way to obey God’s request to eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus Christ. In the Sacrament of Holy Communion one receives Jesus Christ’s corporeal flesh and blood and His Spirit. Our one true God is most gracious and wise and one should lovingly accept His divine gift because “Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you” (Jesus Christ). God bless you

[@ToadMeister313]

Hi David, thank you so much for your bible commentary. Such a wonderful gift you have shared with so many. Just wanted to thank you and let you know how much I appreciate your work. Bless you, my brother.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

You are very welcome, thank you kindly. God bless.

[@Jenna7241986]

Pastor Guzik, I respect you a lot. Regarding the question on Calvinism - that was such a beautifully, well-rounded, careful and bible-grounded answer. I found that I myself had come to the same conclusions as you, but I was willing to re-think any of my opinions on this based on your advice, since I know that no one is infallible, incl. myself. However, your conclusions were exactly as mine and I feel that I may be on the right path. As someone who is unwilling to "join and give full allegiance" to any camp developed by man, I would rather to be true to whatever I believe the Holy Spirit will teach me from the Word of God, rightly dividing the Word, seeking the whole context of scripture, understanding the character of God and of man, and hoping for unity among all of us who call on Jesus Christ as our one and true Savior and Lord. These denominational and doctrinal camps often prove to bring more division, pride and strife in the Church than they bring light - especially as we proudly condemn others in the Bod because they don't believe exactly as we do. Well done, my brother. So glad I found your channel.

[@jj-ns3ck]

Dave Hunt has good books on Calvinism and its teaching,

[@sg6474]

Thank you very much for your teachings.

[@johnnahdalfonso3606]

I appreciate the spiritual maturity that you shared with the Spurgeon quotes. What a nuisance to point out and very helpful.

[@leod5609]

And I think, what I love most about the doctrines of grace, is the comfort, the assurance of salvation to the believer. That he can rest on the bossom of God, secure in the love of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. And yet his perseverance will be coloured by repentance, tears, and joy, in the process of working out his salvation with fear and trembling. To the evangelists, it allowes us to do our best and yet trust in God, and leave it to God to save. So the burden of salvation is not on our hearts, but we can freely go on and preach the gospel to others. And it gives us coherence and consistency of the old covenant and the new covenant as well. In the nature of God and the revelation of his character, fully displayed through Christ. (and not fall into the heresy of Marcion)

[@cindyrehder1164]

So thankful to my Lord Jesus Christ, I don't have to know this stuff to know Him. Jesus says follow Me. It's not complicated until man complicates it.

[@Karine700]

Yes I use the enduring word online very helpful

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Great!

[@Karine700]

@@DavidGuzikEnduringWord it is through a google search I found Enduring Word after a few weeks of using it during my reading of the Bible to search more in depth certain verses I wondered if Enduring word would have a you tube channel and sure enough!!! Praise the Lord!

[@linken3280]

What a great take on Calvinism/reformed theology. Love the "Rest of the story" about Spurgeon's persuasion about Calvinism.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Thank you for saying so! And yes, Spurgeon's point is very well said and well founded. Glad you found it helpful. God bless you!

[@joannalynadormagno6065]

being saved through Jesus Christ alone and accepting His Lordship in my life is more important than calvinism..

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Amen!

[@JohnDuncan0347]

Thank you. I discovered you about 6 months ago. I'm going thru the bible daily and use your podcasts/videos each morning to learn more about God's word. Keep doing it!

[@rogerwilliams5382]

Hey David, I really liked your response to today's questions. Especially the Calvinist response. I am also a huge Spurgeon guy. Such so sometimes I think I might be a Calvinist but I realize I just want to understand the Bible best to my ability. Thank you for your dedication.

[@sheilasmith7779]

Spurgeon admitted that the predestined elect belief was at odds with evangelism. If one group was predestined to hell before they were born, and the other group predestined to salvation, then what would be the point of evangelism? Spurgeon's answer was that although this seemed a contradiction, preach and teach (evangelism) anyway. I love Spurgeon's sermons, but he was wrong on his understanding of individual predestined salvation and damnation.

[@ginamcknight8115]

Spurgeon said in his writing he is a Calvinist

[@user-ib5sz4kq5i]

The Lord impressed me to study David and Goliath and I was led to your teaching on 17 18 19 of 1Samuel the Lord opened up to me what he was wanting me to see thank you for your teaching

[@Sambow7]

Thank you my beloved Brother in Christ. My conclusion in dealing with Calvinists is this 👉 the canonization of their doctrine. They often hold their doctrine up beside and even above scripture. There is often an inability to accept correction and they have an excuse for clearly written scripture challenging their doctrine. I want to walk in agreement with them but it is a rare thing as the Calvinist tends to only walk with another Calvinist. Almost cultish in my experience. Thank you for all the resources in Español that you provide, this is a tremendous tool here in Panama on the mission field. Dios te bendiga mi hermano.

[@haiasinosdnah0813]

I have switched from Arminian to Calvinism and I appreciate your answer to the opening question… I thought Calvinism was taboo until I started reading the Bible from cover to cover multiple times and studying the doctrine, but prior to that I always viewed the doctrine as negative. Now that I agree with it, I find that those who are vehemently opposed to the doctrine don’t understand nor even care to, so they make misguided and misunderstood complaints against it. Your response is respectful and respectable.

[@m.r.6222]

Respectfully, and not to argue, but to inform. Jacob Arminius was a Calvinist. He had an argument with John Calvin about certain of their doctrines, but he was a Calvinist. so as a non Calvinist, I am NOT an Arminiast.

[@oterosocram25]

I consider myself knowledgeable in the subject, and I have to say to you, you went from one extreme to the other. You have pretty much follow the same trend and division presented in 1 Corinthians 1-3, “I am of Apollos, I am of Paul, I am of Cephas…”both groups have much to offer but they also have much that we have to stay away from.

[@pghSkuLLs]

Religion can’t save you “the person of Jesus Christ saves” Whatever denomination you are it doesn’t matter cuz religious acts don’t save you. The Bible was written for all to understand who have ears to hear his word of Christ.

[@jasongillis1336]

Interesting, and not trying to argue here, but share opposing experiences I've had in talking with my Calvinist brothers. What I have found is many Calvinists do not understand determinism, which is the philosophical framework that Calvinism depends upon. Augustine changed his position and imported Stoic philosophy and attempted to marry determinism with God; ie Divine Determinism. On this view all things, literally all things, are determined, including evil things via God's decree. Therefore this makes God the author of evil, and distorts the view of God we read about in Scripture. Those rare Calvinists who do actually understand this publish things like "God does not love everybody" (A.W. Pink). There are alternatives to Calvinism that maintain God's complete sovereign predestination of all things while factoring in legitimate human free will. Molinism, for example is an option that seeks to understand how God's sovereignty and providence fit together with libertarian free will, without brusing the text of scripture. Do you clearly understand the philosophical underpinnings of Calvinism? God bless you and keep you!

[@angloaust1575]

After salvation I was seeking sound doctrine.the Holy Spirit Led me into the doctrine of Predestination and God's Sovereignity also the calvinistic points made sense!

[@Klein-Morretti]

I have your commentaries in Logos. My favorite.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Thank you very much for your support and kind words. Blessings to you in His holy name.

[@rhondawilliams6643]

David, thank you so much for including the very last question about wanting to do something but afraid it may not be in God's timing. That really hit home. I will remember your great answer. Thank you again.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Excellent, so happy to hear it resonated with you. Thank you for your kind words and support!

[@lindatrauthwein3760]

I love the blue letter Bible. That is where I learned to read your commentaries. I read them all through every chapter of the Bible that I study. God bless you.

[@JesusRodriguez-zy3wj]

Blueletterbible works great on my phone and because it has Strong's numbers with the NASB 95, has become extremely helpful when away from my desktop. I'm still searching an easy way to check textual variants beyond NASB notes on the phone.

[@sheilasmith7779]

David: Very good points, particularly on christian behavior toward other christians.

[@mikedun5396]

I have a question and the answer😊 forgive me brothers and sisters but I truly am being sincere... Who is Awesome? Brother Guzik is!!!!! Thank you thank you thank you ❤️❤❤

[@carlosmejia11717]

In regards to the judgement to Ananias I think the principle stands that when God gives plenty we are expecting to give back plenty, the parable of the Talents (money) is perfect to this issue of accountability, some people are given plenty to multiply plenty. The works God was doing through the church in the books of acts , was impressive and nobody lacked anything, also miracles were being performed so the evidence of God was clear. We see this principle throughout the Bible, God holds teachers to a higher standard, Abraham’s promise was great so was his test. That’s why James encouraged not everyone to be a teacher , when God shows up in a great manner there is a higher expectation and Ananias was expected to not lie about the money , and was given a chance to come clean but evil had entered their hearts.

[@hadiyusuf]

I'm a Christian and read my Bible and understand my doctrine with A calvinstic lense. I hold to the TULIP, and very glad to forsake them if I can see in the bible. For those saying, that God created millions of people who have no choice to repent. I will say it clearly, you're missing the point. The bible is clear that people don't want to repent. So, it's not like people want desperately to repent and God is stopping them. People, us included, don't want God and his ways. So, unless God moved and change their heart they won't. That's where I disagree with David about faith and regeneration and would love to see from the bible where it shows that faith preceeds regeneration. He tried to belittle the separation between regeneration, faith and salvation to prove the point. But I believe there is a separation from a biblical perspective. You don't enter the heaven unless you're born again. They are not the same.

[@freddiemansky7102]

very good --Thank-YOU

[@Jesusisking235]

The old "who are you to question God?' line. To which I respond: I'm not questioning God - I'm questioning you and your understanding of what God said.

[@DawnaSmithakaCooper]

BLB app is the best Bible app for all the commentaries but yours is so detailed refined well organized and deeply rooted in the Biblical world view. Extremely valuable when I was writing research papers for my BA in Christian ministry. I may not agree with the Calvinist, but I sure gleaned some very deep revelations and comprehension and sanctification process. But J Calvin’s doctrine was composed before the State of Israel was born in a day. In the exact day prophesied in the OT. They have to be given grace and consideration for the culture and reformation and Protestant movements with very little archeological evidence to prove the places and Bible stories actually happened like we have now. Studying Calvinism was very enlightening and taught me that the key components to the gospel and salvation is solid

[@J-ky8qg]

I looked into this prayerfully and objectively to look at all sides. I ended up leaning towards the provisonist view which sounds very similar to your and Mike Wingers view. Great video!

[@sablefisher]

I appreciate your comments regarding the attitude of many who claim "Calvinist" or "Armenian" for that matter. In my short time on "X", I've noticed a very hostile attitude coming from them which is hardly indicative of a Holy Spirit empowered life. I'm not so bold as to put God into a little box of one belief system, ie. Calvin or Armenian, and prefer to rest in Isaiah 55: 8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

[@jolookstothestars6358]

Ananias and Sapphira were saved God just disciplined them. So God's grace and mercy was still evident in their lives by their salvation.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Interesting, thank you for sharing this!

[@jolookstothestars6358]

@@DavidGuzikEnduringWord I was more interested in hearing if you agreed or disagreed with my perspective. Another question, I was listening to your teaching on 1Thess. 1:4 and wanted to know if you think the "election" in vs. 4 is to salvation. If not im glad but why not.😇👍

[@pauldoddy9714]

Love your commentaries! Thanks so much!

[@Jay-yy5rp]

Arminians can also be smug in how they teach their doctrines

[@JRRodriguez-nu7po]

Duh, of course, but Guzik clearly isn't.

[@ginamcknight8115]

True

[@loisbailey7393]

Amen

[@ruthisrael1292]

Thank you so much!

[@Matt-vj1tc]

Really fantastic introduction. I am bewildered at times that people argue about Calvinism and completely ignore the Lutheran scholastics soteriology. Gods word is effective, it is us who resist it unto our destruction.

[@JesusRodriguez-zy3wj]

I have tried to understand Lutheran theology and utterly failed despite dialogue online with Lutherans. Sometimes they seem similar to the "Orthodox" in trying to pin down definitions but, I really only spent a few days trying to understand. If you know a succinct explanation that does not turn most things into "mystery"; please respond. Unfortunately I do have "a day job" and time is limited.

[@Matt-vj1tc]

@@JesusRodriguez-zy3wj A short answer would be, Calvinists place our salvation solely on the decree of God whereas Lutherans place it solely on the work of Christ in his suffering, death, and resurrection. Calvinism tries to keep a philosophical commitment together in their soteriology where as the Lutherans are not willing to say more than the bible. We are saved by God's gift, which is not a work of us, however, we are free and so that gift can be resisted and we can reject salvation. Its a both and for Lutherans. Understandning Lutheranism is a real struggle. Lutheran theology developed before Calvinism and so they are not even slightly indebted to reformed categories. As Americans, we really have to throw away Reformed terminology in order to hear Lutherans for what they are actually saying. That's so difficult because like it or not, and most of us don't, America is a reformed country. Our judicial and economic system, our Scottish commence sense realism, and our theological categories are all indebted to the Calvinist Reformers. That reality is far less true in Continental Europe, Asia, and Africa. For me, the best thing has been to read primary sources and stop reading secondary literature. Calvinists talking about Lutherans are going to try and make them sound Calvinistic because they want Luther to have been a pre-Calvinist. unfortunately, that just isn't true. The Lutherans call foul on that all the time. The first place I started was with the Book of Concordd. My kids and I discussed the Augsburg confession together at the dinner table. I dare you to find anything in there you disagree with. It's really beautiful. All the best :)

[@mikedun5396]

Thanks!

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

You're welcome and Blessings to you always! Thank you for your kind words and your generous support.

[@leod5609]

Btw brother David. I'm a Calvinist, or more accurately, reformed baptist, and I have loved using your commentaries :) Thank you for your hard work 🙏

[@williammarinelli2363]

Mark 7:14 - "And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and understand:" When the Lord called "all the people" unto him, did he consider those in the audience able to hearken and understand?

[@leodegariobocong9175]

A true faith in Jesus Christ is there are evidence of good works so that it will give glory to our holy God.

[@JAFO.]

@leodegariobocong9175 - ...and what are the works God requires? John 6:29 It is never about us, it is always about Him and His death on the cross for the finished work of forgiveness for the whole world, His resurrection for that which we who are born Dead in sin all need, Life. Forgiveness has been completed for us all, we choose to believe it unto eternal life.

[@user-zw5xh6qf1c]

so so balanced and so sane

[@mickbillane4683]

Your a protestant pastor on the west coast of America, 600 hundred years ago, the Bible accepted and believed by all Christians, Was Not the one Your preaching from today, where they wrong, and your absolutely right, how great it is to be absolutely right.😅

[@deannmiller4758]

Fantastic!

[@sandratagaban5541]

I think Reformed is what Calvinists say when they don’t want to admit they are Calvinists.

[@oterosocram25]

In both cases, Ussa and Annanias and Saphira God was making a crucial statement. A snippet of what is going to happen to the freshly started body of Christ. God always used one as an example for the rest. Noah was an example Abraham was an example Moses was a great example David was an example Many biblical characters were an example for the rest.

[@ginamcknight8115]

I don’t think he changed his doctrinal view until the end.I’m going back to listen to your Genesis commentary

[@sheilasmith7779]

David, your wisdom is impressive, similar to Mike Winger.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Very generous of you to say, thank you for your kindness and support.

[@SachelleCambria]

This whole thing is insane. How is it that believers can’t even agree on the word of God. The word of Cannot be altered.

[@JesusRodriguez-zy3wj]

Because the Word of God, while simple and straightforward about everything required to be saved (and many other things); also contains sections so deep that no human currently walking the planet understands. I spent 2.5 years studying ONLY Titus 1:12 and barely scratched the surface of that single verse. An old Hippo compared Scripture to a river in St Augustine. While the river was safe for children to play at the shores; it was deeper than any hippo needed to bathe. He never understood enough to wander into the vast ocean where the river emptied.

[@athomeskincare8346]

Proper faith produces godly works.

[@kechyaimba9961]

I love the way you are balanced and mature in your criticism

[@sallysaez1533]

Thank you for these extensive explanations. You break it down so I can understand

[@lindawarner7496]

Love blue letter Bible

[@JRRodriguez-nu7po]

When using it, click the box Strong and you can easily look up the actual Hebrew and Greek.

[@athomeskincare8346]

The life is in the blood.✝️

[@Jesusisking235]

If there is a Calvinist reading this, can you answer one simple question that I have: "Did God decide to create billions of people with absolutely no choice to repent so that they can be tormented forever in hell for his pleasure?" I just cannot wrap my brain around this thought so could a Calvinist enlighten me on this? Is this truly what a Calvinist believes?

[@CharlesAlanBush]

Romans 9 seems to say so pretty clearly. Many other passages do too. And the fact that the whole Bible is about God's choices seems to point to it. God chose: Noah, Abraham, The jews, the prophets, Jesus disciples. By definition, anytime He chooses someone, He excludes everyone else. God chose the jews and excluded all the people in the rest of Asia, North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Australian. It was a small group of people to the exclusion of everyone else not in that small group. The whole rest of the world had no prophets, no scripture, no word from the Lord, they weren't waiting on a messiah. That said, God knows the beginning before the end, we don't. So we evangelize to everyone knowing that those who have been given ears to hear, will hear. Jesus will lose nothing and Noone that The Father has given Him. I hope this helps answer your question and when you read, see if the bible focuses on God's sovereignty, or man's (even in salvation.) Good bless you and anyone else reading this.

[@charlesshanks3101]

Got your commentary on my computer ❤ love your quotes from Spurgeon' and others

[@charlesshanks3101]

It's on E- Sword a Great Bible library!!!

[@kathyhickey6550]

I just found your channel, and I love it!❤

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Welcome! Glad you enjoy it, thank you very much.

[@Karine700]

24:54 i like the coffee cup

[@jolookstothestars6358]

Pastor have you read the amazing work of Dr. Ken Wilson? He wrote a book on Augustine after he read all of Augustines writings in sequential order. As a Christian for more than half my life now I really take offense to the L in T.U.L.I.P., limited atonement and i think so will Jesus!!!

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Pastor Lance replies - I'm not sure if David has read Wilson, but I have and found his arguments convincing. I've recommended his book widely.

[@Sophrosynica]

The thief on the cross wasn’t born again yet believed and he as considered saved by Jesus so that make sense to your point around 10:12

[@leod5609]

Andddd as a Calvinist, we believe that true saints will persevere, or rather, preserved by God to persevere in the faith. Not that we will never sin, or have sinless perfection, but we will show a holy grief to sin, to we will repent. Or basicay we will go through sanctification :) we'll get better and better, but in no way will we be perfect 😅

[@palabracelestial2758]

Hey pastor, I just wanna say thank you because you have helped me very much with my spiritual growth! Your Bible Commentary is very clear and easy to understand! I am curious though about if I may ask, why aren't you pastoring a church?

[@athomeskincare8346]

Do you believe in eternal punishing or do you believe non believers have eternal life?Do you believe in annihilation of the wicked?

[@user-om6kf8dv9s]

Hey David, I loved your discussion about Calvinism and Armenianism. It was really Biblically balanced. I am a Presbyterian follower of Jesus who has worked starting new worshipping bodies from 4 decades. I use your enduring word commentaries almost always in preparing to teach. Thank you brother for your loving efforts.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Wonderful, thank you for your kind words and support.

[@andreasbenjamin2438]

Does presbyterian a cessationist?

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

@@andreasbenjamin2438 Generally speaking...yes.

[@andreasbenjamin2438]

@@DavidGuzikEnduringWord presbyterian and all cessationist need to involve the Holy Spirit during Bible study otherwise they'll never understand and experience the spiritual gifts. I actually have something to say to you about the gift of tongues. There are actually 3 types of tongues not 2 as you've mentioned. I'm not trying to accuse you or anything but it seems like you're acting like Arminian trying to debunk Calvinism. The preservation of the saints is true at some point because we do have security when we have our faith in Christ but the Arminian refused it altogether rather than fixing the issues. The cessationist believe in the gift of tongues in Acts 2 when the apostles speaking in other foreign human languages but refuse the fact that there's another speaking personally to God which is praying in tongues. On the other hand you refuse the speaking in tongues as speaking in other foreign human languages. That's why you couldn't explain the later half of 1 Corinth 14 when Paul said speaking in tongues is a sign for the unbelievers as in Acts 2. I disagree with most of Calvinism because they're unbiblical and accusing God for being too almighty and sovereign but not all-loving and just God. Arminian has their weakness too but not as fatal as Calvinism. They're only wrong in the insecure salvation in Christ.

[@JRRodriguez-nu7po]

Look up Alexander Peden, and show that history to a Presbyterian.

[@antonthelander7777]

Keep close to the Bible!!! 📖

[@walkbyfaithfirsthaitianchu4584]

Hello Pastor, I want to start by thanking you for sharing your teaching to other newly arrived pastors like me This is pastor Jacob- I am a Haitian pastor assigned by God in El Paso Texas, I am a missionary posted by God in this city to receive Haitian migrants coming to the United States via the port of entry in this region. I continue to stay in contact with them after they left the El Paso sector. I have listened and adapted to your teaching for almost 9 years. I transfer your teaching in Haitian Creole to the Haitians during my sermon. I would like to do the same thing you do here. My question for you, which software and app do you use to be successful in broadcasting.?

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Thank you very much for your kind words and support! Pastor David uses the "ATEM mini pro" whuch is a production board with matching software, but you can successfully stream from your computer or laptop with the free softwares OBS, Streamlabs, or Streamyards.

[@matthewford4050]

I would encourage you to look at the research from scroll publishing with David Bercot. Calvinism simply does not believe that Jesus was in a body like ours.

[@KandonKuuson]

Appreciate the Video, Dave I would love to point you to Provisionism. In my believe it tests with the scripture. Have a look at Soteriology 101 with Leighton Flowers.

[@athomeskincare8346]

Not that long ago people did not even have to get a marriage licenses to be considered married by the government.They just had to claim that they where to be recognized as such.Government got involved not long ago actually.

[@peteragoston-petrosthemusi8260]

Today I learnt sg important during the explanation of Spurgeon's sermons and milestones. Thank you for your detailed and balanced approach. We all have {partial} knowledge - protestant THING {1Cor 13 BTW} - but we need to learn EQ. Instead of simple IQ.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thirdplace3973]

No Ism based on Augustine’s philosophy and anthropology is Biblical. He introduced Manichaeism into church orthodoxy in the 5th century.

[@JRRodriguez-nu7po]

A few things Augustine did/wrote are good; such as his rejection of Pelagius. So his soteriology (how is one saved) is good. However, most of Augustine is error, and it is a long list. If you think his anthropology is bad, read his gynecology! As a physician I am lol at my pun. Practically everything h Augustine wrote other than how to be saved was wrong.

[@thirdplace3973]

@@JRRodriguez-nu7po Augustine was a Manichaean Gnostic. But yeah, he taught sin was a STD, but that also is from his Manichaeism.

[@user-ku1bk3yy9q]

What is that?

[@thirdplace3973]

@@user-ku1bk3yy9q Manichaeism is a form of Gnosticism invented by a Persian guy named Manes in the late 4th century. He mixed Christianity, Judaism, eastern mysticism and Greek paganism.

[@JustbeSmilin]

1:01:15 - "Once saved always saved" - I've always believed this, so I was extremely interested to hear the scripture as to why this isn't a thing. Could you please share these? TBH, I feel shook. I thought that blaspheming the Holy Spirit was the only unpardonable sin.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Here's a more in depth look at their topic. I hope that it helps. kzbin.info4MZnGEtsX_c?si=4gFF9IGcJxXOK7rU

[@sheilasmith7779]

David was forgiven but still suffered the consequence of his sin.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

Well said!

[@tamlynvibanco1932]

I'm a Calvinist because I was told I was a Calvinist decades ago by someone who told me that's what I was. In my experience though it seems people understand free will much more easily than they grasp how election and predestination work. I will say that you can't escape predestination and election because it's clearly in the Bible in many different places. If you don't understand it, it doesn't matter, because nobody understands the Trinity either. I manage to squeeze election down to my own size by thinking of it as the inheritance of a status and position, and not about a sort of predetermination of all my thoughts and actions moment by moment as my life plays out and ends up. Predestination and election are like if you inherit traits and property from your father, it doesn't mean your father controls you like a robot all your life, even if he has tremendous impact and influence on it.

[@andreasbenjamin2438]

You need to ask the Holy Spirit personally to understand this matter. Then you'll understand why Calvinism is wrong

[@tamlynvibanco1932]

@@andreasbenjamin2438 The Holy Spirit will not contradict Holy Scripture. So if you were sensible you would tell me to search the Holy Scriptures daily to see if what Calvin said is correct, or, if Calvin's critics are correct. I'm actually more aligned with Spurgeon, who said Calvin and Arminius were both right and both wrong, depending on what aspect was being scrutinized. Nice try, though, do spin again.

[@andreasbenjamin2438]

@@tamlynvibanco1932 Calvinism is not entirely wrong....but in my rough calculation.... about 80% wrong and 20% true. God never create any human for hell. He justly gives all of us free will to choose good and evil. God's intention is for all humans to be saved.... He repeatedly ask us to repent, His prophets' messages are mostly about repentance. And we have that privilege to choose, a free will to determine our choice, unlike what Calvinism teaches. I only agree in Calvinism that God's election is unconditional...but His salvation is conditional which we have to believe that Jesus died for our sins and we should live a repentance to respond to His grace and love for us. We should love God with all our hearts, minds and souls....deny ourselves, pick up the cross and follow Jesus...and no other motivation, not to save ourselves from hell but to truly love God and never focus on our own salvation and being in heaven. The other point i agree in Calvinism is the preservation of the saints at some point but not blindly and extremely believe in that point because if we're not careful with our life, our love for God and others, we can fall from being saved...but the Armenian is only half right because God can preserve His saints according to His wisdom. Other than that, Total depravity, limited atonement and irresistible grace are totally wrong. Therefore i kindly ask you to meditate about these issues. Ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, may He reveal the truth, His truth.... not some doctrines or human teachings. I pray you'll be filled with the Holy Spirit and know the truth. In Jesus name. Amen Hallelujah

[@JRRodriguez-nu7po]

Having spent 2.5 years studying only Titus 1:12, I am a committed Calvarminian. To explain that would be difficult typing on my phone with one finger. I thank Godel...

[@user-ku1bk3yy9q]

325ad constance (doctrine changed) titles used persecution began force was looking the world had gone after jesus

[@athomeskincare8346]

What do think about abstaining from eating animals because you have sympathy for them?

[@user-bl2yu3ts3u]

Here is my question ❓....when we arrive in heaven will the "Calvinists" live in a different neighborhood than the "Arminians".....how about the Evangelicals ❓.....

[@jamesrogers6297]

Sin decrector at door. Had to chuckle at that. No one would be able to enter.

[@athomeskincare8346]

When you use the blood you are showing belief in his sacrifice and protection.

[@ToastSoon4808]

Hi David....your presentation poped up for the first time. I want to ask you a favour. I still dont grasp the "issue" with Calvanism. Can you please just reply with an explanatory but cryptic/highpoints of calvanism with reference to predestination if applicable. I have no knowledge of Armenism. My "issue" is I am aging, the world is in a shambles, young people are dying without knowledge of the Lord Jesus, etc yet is being debated.....still. ultimately all these opinions are confusing hence I would like to hear a European preacher's opinion. Thank you

[@athomeskincare8346]

You could know if God shows you.

[@zacdredge3859]

Appreciate the video but just to be clear there is a difference between something being chronologically prior and ontologically prior. In other words when the Calvinist claims that God's work in the heart of the believer 'comes first' the view doesn't fail solely on the basis of a temporal account of when they first believed vs when the Spirit first alighted upon them; rather it would take rejecting the idea that God's sovereign decree of whom shall believe is the foundational element in that person being the sheep who hears their shepherd as opposed to some quality or set of traits that person possesses intrinsically which is lacking in someone else that rejects the Gospel. Peace and love, glory to Christ and blessings in your ministry.

[@atgred]

If there is a man’s name in the title of the “belief”, no. But maybe consider that Calvin had a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary? Was he wrong on that and correct on TULIP?

[@ricksaunders8074]

You mean the doctrines of Grace ?

[@pappap1702]

How can one be chosen or predestined or elected if at first God doesn't choose you? How can you be chosen if youre not chosen? If you reject Jesus you are not a chosen one. If you accept Jesus you are a chosen one. Pretty simple i think.

[@wisdom2713]

Is the famous Reformed theologian Alistair Begg (who recently propagates christian to attend transwedding and has firmly refused to recant his heretical belief ) chosen before the beginning of the world ? Is Abraham Piper the apostate son of John Piper chosen ? Is Laura Slick the apostate daughter of Reformed apologist Matt Slick , also chosen elected before the foundation of the world ? How can u be sure that u yourself are elected ? what's your ground ? the Bible ? on what verse ? John 6 : 44 ??? i'm sorry but your name or Alistair Begg's name are not SPECIFICALLY written in John 6:44 , you are just 'wishing' in case you would 'hit the jackpot' to be within the elected group but sadly your doctrine cant save you , just again take a look at Alistair Begg would Stephen Lawson , John Macarthur and others would honestly think Alistair Begg is chosen if he until the end of his life would not repent ? Just think if a person with such 'supposedly' spiritual level as Alistair Begg had no concrete assurance what would be the chance for just an ordinary calvinist then ? You are under delusion for following and even IDOLIZING a MAN name John Calvin .

[@pappap1702]

@@wisdom2713 Just because you commit a sin even an outlandish one only means one is human. That doesn't make you unsaved. It doesn't work that way. Look at King David, murderer, adulterer and God still loved him. You think he's not with Jesus now? Being chosen doesn't make you perfect you still sin no matter who you are. My whole argument is it is God who first chooses not the other way around. I resent your uncalled for remark I'm a Calvinists worshipper. That tells me you like to insult people who disagree with you and I therefore have nothing more to say to you.

[@wisdom2713]

@@pappap1702 Sorry for making your emotion in distress when i'm just simply implementing 1 Cor 3:1-5 where if some christians say they are calvinists (meaning they are of calvin ) then certainly they are only immature babes in Christ for idolizing other than Him . First of all with people like John Macarthur , Steven Lawson and John White who like to 'mercilessly grind' very hard on us the non-calvinists , i'm surprised when the table being turned that a calvinist as yourself cant even take a 'little heat' not to mention having very 'thin' ear . Of course unless you have a unique opinion about those reformed preachers i've mentioned that they are not good examples for living in christlike character. Now let me answer your strawman misleading reply as if we the non-calvinist believe that those who committing sin are not saved . For us salvation is like A SEED where when we have truly received Christ as we consciously invite him into our heart and consciously pledge a covenant to acknowledge His sovereign rulership over our life as Lord then we are born again and DEFINITELY saved , but the seed of salvation should be nurtured if we neglect the process of nurturing then the seed would die because it has no root ( Mat 13: 21) meaning loosing the salvation , even if it has root but not being nurtured well it would also eventually vanish (Mat 13 :21-22 ) . While those who have managed to nurture the gift of salvation some would have 30 folds , some 60 folds and some 100 folds , these are eternal rewards beside salvation. There is no such thing as chosen for salvation without human's responsibility , God has chosen and elected Christ our Lord before time so whoever by their own freewill choose to be in Christ then they would become the elects , He chose us not because of ourselves but because of Christ that's why if we after being born again yet consciously by our freewill chose to be apart from Christ then we would be considered as heathen and our elected for salvation status would be revoked . Calvinists rely heavily on Ephesians 1 : 4 but they mostly ignore the 'holy and blameless part ' as the PROOF of the chosen ones . Yes ! No man is perfect , no man is holy because only God alone who sanctifies however are we pursuing holiness ? grace of sanctification along with forgiveness ( in case we fall ) will be given only to those who pursue holiness . I dont know about what kind of bible that you've been reading but my bible consists of OC and NC which mean Old COVENANT and New COVENANT , covenant means agreement by the will of TWO parties , God's will is salvation for all without exception but without the agreement of men then there would be no salvation . The requirement of New Covenant is just believe in Him and giving your best (optimal) effort despite our obvious weaknesses and risk of falling , God doesn't need perfect people He just wants us to humbly attempt in giving the best effort by faith for Him ( 2 Peter 1 vrs. 5 and vrs. 10 --- For this very reason, make EVERY EFFORT to add to your faith excellence ..... Therefore, brothers, STRIVE to make your calling and ELECTION SURE ) . He's the one who initially chose us to be in the covenant with Him , yet it's totally up to us to enter or reject the covenant even after we've already been in the covenant it will still be of our own freewill to stay or to go out from the covenant .

[@pappap1702]

@@wisdom2713 There you go again with your name calling and derogatory comments towards me. You really need to grow up and learn to have mature discussions. If you think one can lose salvation then I feel sorry for you. God gives salvation and God maintains that salvation. Your works have nothing to do with it. How many times can you be saved and where in Scripture does it say one can be resaved over and over since apparently you think what Jesus did wasn't enough and you need to add to it? Jesus stated none that were given to me by the Father will be lost except the son of perdition referring to Judas. You lose salvation crew seem to overlook that part of Scripture and decided that Jesus spoke untruth I guess.

[@wisdom2713]

@@pappap1702 Pardon me , but weren't u the one who said this very sentence ? " I therefore have nothing more to say to you " , --- again why are u so quick to negate your own statement ? now back to the topic let me 'examine' several of your statements : 1. You said : You really need to grow up and learn to have mature discussions ---- My Reply : Is it a sign of maturity or in fact a feeble fragile immature person who violates their own words ? 2. You said : God gives salvation and God maintains that salvation. Your works have nothing to do with it. My Reply : Ok , if that's the case let us put your 'assumption' in implementation -- God gives ALL reformed pastors the ability not to commit adultery for watching porn and God maintain that ALL reformed pastors will not commit adultery for watching porn . The works of ALL reformed pastors have absolutely nothing to do with resisting adultery of watching porn. So here's two questions for u : -- If there's a reformed pastor that watches porn is it because he's actually not among the chosen ones or is it because God has wanted and predetermined him to watch porn before the foundation of the world ? -- If God is so absolutely sovereign and genuinely wants the elects to be holy why wont He just predetermine that ALL reformed pastor will have the power to resist porn , then ?

[@spinderellas6272]

I can’t understand that people believe God chose you to go to heaven or hell and only a limited atonement for those He chose. I would rather have not been born than chosen to go to hell. It saddens me greatly. Many who have no hope because they struggle with sin believe they must not be saved. 😢 But the fact that any of are saved is truly the grace of God, because we all deserve hell.

[@ForeverSealed]

Calvinism is so far from The Gospel it’s not even close. Man worshipping man and his idea of the Bible instead of God. Calvinism takes the LOVE out of God character completely and that is the God honest Truth!

[@spinderellas6272]

@@ForeverSealed yes! I don’t believe Calvanism is true. My own husband’s faith was shipwrecked by that doctrine and wouldn’t listen to me. He struggles with sin, and rather than fighting it with The Word, he says it’s because he wasn’t chosen. Even some of the people he spoke with at a church didn’t encourage him with seeking the kingdom 1st. I realize my comment was unclear. Sorry

[@JAFO.]

@spinderellas6272 - please let him know that everyone was born Spiritually dead in sin, meaning two things need to be done: 1) forgiveness for and removal of sin: This is the work of Jesus on the cross; A) Forgiveness 1 John 2:1 B) Removal John 1:29 #2: Life eternal John 6:29 As simple as choosing to believe in the finished work of Jesus on the cross and Therein receiving God's gift of Eternal LIFE. All are forgiven, not all will believe it unto Eternal LIFE. Now tell him that now that he knows the truth - simply choose to believe it and he'll know he's one of the elect, chosen for Heaven, then, in knowing he now has Eternal LIFE to be free, rejoice and trust His Holy Spirit to work in & through him.

[@jenniferfullmer7891]

Sometimes evil needs to be taken out to advance God's devine plan

[@macmilleur4165]

Aw i missed the live stream rats!

[@olanrebullar5131]

Was calvin considered himself a calvinist? Of course not… you’re riight theres a lot of them have proud spirit..

[@CharlesAlanBush]

This is kind of like when unbelievers say, "Jesus wasn't even a Christian, he was a jew." When people call someone a Calvinist, it just means that you agree with Calvin's stance on God's sovereignty in salvation. It doesn't mean that you agree with all of his teachings or that the person follows him. It's just an easy way for us to know if the person believes in the sovereignty of God in salvation, or man's sovereignty in salvation.

[@athomeskincare8346]

Do you think Jesus’s fleshly body was God or man who’s DNA was related to David?

[@eugenejoseph7076]

The truth is that not one beleiver I ever met (I'm 65 and have been a Christian for 40 years, so do the math) as ever become a Calvinist by reading the Bible. They learned it from a man with his interpretation based on another man who learned it from another man who learned from John Calvin who learned from Augustine who has reverted to Gnosticism a few years after his conversion. Before that not one single biblical write ever taught Calvinism. Now, I know all the gas lightning and straw man argument Calvinists use so, sadly younare follwing men's teaching and not the Holy Spirit as taught by the Apostle John in 2 John 2:27. But heg, if you wanna follow men's teachings have at it. I keep learning fromt the Holy Spirit.

[@charlesmcclain630]

so spurgeon followed niether calvin nor arminius,but he followed JESUS CHRISTin the power of the HOLY SPIRIT.

[@pinoychristianpilgrim]

I have been a calvinist for 40 years. Both camps need to sit and do a 2-way dialogue. Unfortunately, we are quick to condemn others without hearing them first.

[@fuzfire]

After having studied John Calvins late life in Geneva and his reign of spiritual tyranny, i would say this: If todays calvinistic Christians were to be transported back into his time ruling in Geneva, I doubt seriously that most modern Calvinists would last days before they were done some serious harm by Calvinists of those day. Further if they could some how come back into today, they would CEASE to be a calvinist the moment they rentered our day and age. Folks Calvin was personally responsible for many good Christians being killed or ruined or banish from Geneva and therefore stripped of their livelyhood and possessions. You Calvinists need to realky come to know who John Calvin was.

[@terryhuffaker3615]

What is Calvinism. Every time I hear a discussion on C. I become more and more confused.

[@DavidGuzikEnduringWord]

It's a complex set of theological assertions. You can think of Calvinism as a set of conclusions that were deduced from certain suggestions in scripture. The Bible doesn't plainly state the claims that Calvinism makes, but through reasoning and logic, one can see how each of the core beliefs are formulated. ("Because a Bible passage says "X," we can logically suppose (or argue) that "Y" is true.") And the conclusions that are drawn make up a system of absolutes - Always that, Total this, and Complete that. As Pastor David makes clear, the "core beliefs" or doctrines of Calvinism are known as T.U.L.I.P.: Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace, and Perseverance of the saints. There are literally millions of pages written on each of these, and you can look deeper into each of them with a Google search. -Enduring Word Team

[@Chris-wf6km]

Calvin never provided in “Institutes” a shred of evidence to back up his in Spirit only doctrine of the Lord’s Supper and David Guzik cannot provide any evidence either. In John 6 Jesus Christ asked us to eat His flesh and drink His blood for compelling reasons. Later, at the Lord’s Supper, Jesus Christ showed us how to obey His request to eat and drink of Him via blessed bread and wine that has miraculously become His flesh and His blood. This is straightforward to understand and it takes wilful ignorance to put Calvin's in Spirit only theory before the Word of God who asked us to eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus Christ at the Lord's Supper - Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. The way to celebrate the Lord’s Supper as our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ intended is to be a member of the Catholic Church (includes Ordinariate) or Orthodox Church. Catholic and Orthodox Priests have received the Sacrament of Holy Orders from a Bishop of apostolic succession and thereby have the faculty to consecrate bread and wine to become the flesh and blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. There is no other way to obey God’s request to eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus Christ. In the Sacrament of Holy Communion one receives Jesus Christ’s corporeal flesh and blood and His Spirit. Our one true God is most gracious and wise and one should lovingly accept His divine gift because “Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you” (Jesus Christ). God bless you

[@WeneedpeaceNlovefromJC777]

Bible so simple but we as human make it difficult and complicated so much teaching behind Jesus teaching make it ppl argue a lot about this teaching but not focus on real Jesus teaching. Can u imagine when we go to heaven, Jesus tell us all that teaching is not right and why you all argue with each other about my teaching? 😅

[@lindadodd3829]

Short answer: NO

[@sheilasmith7779]

We can and should all agree that God had a predestined salvation plan. We do not disagree that God could predestine everything, but He did not. God determined the specifics of salvation laid out in the O.T and the N.T. Our disagreement is over the salvation conditions and the order of those conditions. We reject all of TULIP and STULIP, the S, being the Calvinists definition of sovereignty that has been added to TULIP. We agree God is sovereign but disagree over what God's sovereignty actually designed as described in scripture. We are and have always been of the same human nature of Adam and Eve, before and after the "fall." Evidence? The choice and actions of Cain versus Abel. Post-Fall: Our real-estate changed, living conditions changed but not our God designed human nature. God created in us, both desire and will.