Reformed theology is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Protestant Reformation, with theologian John Calvin playing a significant role. In this blog post, we will delve into the fundamental beliefs of Reformed Christians, breaking them down into key points that shape their faith.
- Sovereignty of God:
At the heart of Reformed theology is the belief in the absolute sovereignty of God. Reformed Christians affirm that God is the supreme ruler of the universe, and everything that occurs is under His divine control and purpose. - Total Depravity:
Reformed Christians adhere to the doctrine of total depravity, which asserts that all humans are born sinful due to the Fall of Adam and Eve. They believe that without God’s grace, humanity is incapable of achieving salvation. - Unconditional Election:
This doctrine teaches that God, in His sovereignty, chooses certain individuals for salvation purely according to His will, without regard to their merits or actions. Election is solely based on God’s divine purpose. - Limited Atonement:
Reformed theology emphasizes limited atonement, which means that Christ’s sacrificial atonement on the cross was specifically for the elect, ensuring their salvation. It is not a universal atonement for all humanity. - Irresistible Grace:
Reformed Christians believe that when God extends His grace to an individual, that person cannot resist or reject it. God’s grace is efficacious, guaranteeing the salvation of those He has chosen. - Perseverance of the Saints:
Often summarized as “Once saved, always saved,” this doctrine asserts that those whom God has elected and regenerated will persevere in faith and good works until the end, securing their eternal salvation. - Sola Scriptura:
Reformed Christianity upholds the principle of “Scripture alone.” The Bible is considered the ultimate authority for faith and practice, and all theological beliefs and practices should be firmly grounded in Scripture. - Covenant Theology:
Reformed Christians place great importance on understanding God’s relationship with humanity through covenants. They see a continuity between the covenants in the Old and New Testaments, with Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s covenant promises. - Worship and the Regulative Principle:
Reformed worship is characterized by simplicity, reverence, and an emphasis on the Word of God. The regulative principle guides worship practices, allowing only elements explicitly commanded in Scripture. - Preaching and Education:
In Reformed churches, preaching holds a central place in worship services. Pastors are often called to expound on the Word of God. Education, particularly in theology and doctrine, is highly valued within the Reformed tradition.
Reformed theology is characterized by its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty of God, a high regard for the authority of Scripture, and a rich theological tradition. While these key points provide an overview of Reformed beliefs, it’s important to recognize that there can be variations in interpretation and emphasis within this tradition. Nevertheless, Reformed Christians share a common faith in God’s grace and the foundational role of His Word in their lives.
Where do you stand with your beliefs?