Publisher's Synopsis
This work is a reconsideration and evaluation of the Arminian Theology. It investigates the question of how Arminians and Calvinists can reason together; it also explores any point of contact in their theological systems; and it asks if the Calvinists and Arminians can give each other a listening ear should there be any remaining unresolvable difference. The aim is to identify the view of Arminius and his immediate followers (the Remonstrants) on the doctrine of election and predestination, that is their soteriological position. The Arminian party sees salvation as a gift, the work of God, which man is left with the choice to either accept or reject. Unlike the semi-Pelagian synergism, Arminian synergism grants that salvation is God's work, but for anyone to be saved, he must accept this gift. God's prevenient grace, which is available for everyone, gives the ability for good exercise of freewill. This human decision is not influenced by God: man chooses freely. So, human decision becomes really important in the salvation of men. Human cooperation is something real and integral, necessary in salvation. However, the position reached in this investigation is that the salvation of men is all of God-from beginning to end. God alone initiates and He alone finishes. This means salvation is monergistic not synergistic. For it is God in Jesus who is author and finisher of our faith. I recommend that Arminians should be regarded as partners in Christ together with the Calvinists for the advancement of Christ's Kingdom.This work is a reconsideration and evaluation of the Arminian Theology. It investigates the question of how Arminians and Calvinists can reason together; it also explores any point of contact in their theological systems; and it asks if the Calvinists and Arminians can give each other a listening ear should there be any remaining unresolvable difference.
