The Calvinist framework provides a stronger, more cohesive interpretation of Scripture by upholding God’s sovereignty, human inability, and the certainty of salvation in a way that aligns with the overarching biblical narrative.
1. Human Inability and Sovereign Grace
Calvinism begins with the doctrine of total depravity, which states that humanity is completely incapable of seeking God apart from divine intervention (Romans 3:10–12; Ephesians 2:1–3). Arminians agree with total depravity but introduce prevenient grace—a grace that enables all people to freely choose or reject salvation. However, this concept lacks clear biblical support. Scripture instead emphasizes that God’s effectual grace alone enables sinners to believe (John 6:44; Ephesians 2:8–9). Calvinism consistently teaches that salvation is entirely initiated and accomplished by God, avoiding speculative additions like prevenient grace.
2. Election and Foreknowledge
The Bible presents election as unconditional, grounded in God’s sovereign will rather than foreseen faith. Romans 9:16–18 makes it explicit: “It depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.” Ephesians 1:4–5 states that God chose believers “before the foundation of the world,” not based on any future actions. Arminianism holds that election is based upon God's foreknowledge of who will believe, Romans 8:29, but this position makes the decision of God depend on man's actions and thus reduces His sovereignty. On the other hand, Calvinism makes sense of these texts by affirming that God's election is based upon His will alone, thus preserving His ultimate authority.
3. The Atonement and Grace
Calvinists argue for limited atonement—that Christ’s death was specifically intended to save the elect (John 10:14–15). While Arminians emphasize the universality of the atonement (1 John 2:2), they must reconcile this with the reality that not all are saved. Calvinism resolves this tension by teaching that Christ’s atonement is sufficient for all but effectual only for the elect, aligning with passages like John 6:37–39, which affirm that all whom the Father gives to the Son will come to Him and be saved.
4. Security of Salvation
Arminians often contend that salvation can be lost, citing warnings like Hebrews 6:4–6. Calvinism resolves this tension by the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints and declares that God's power preserves the genuine believer—John 10:27–29; Romans 8:38–39. Those passages warning of false faith are explained as referring to those who were never saved in reality—1 John 2:19.
Conclusion
The Calvinist framework better harmonizes Scripture because it consistently attributes salvation to God’s sovereignty, avoids speculative doctrines, and resolves tensions surrounding election, atonement, and perseverance. It reflects the biblical teaching that salvation is fully God’s work, from election to glorification (Romans 8:29–30), leaving no room for contradiction.
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