What's the Big Deal about Calvinism?

I'm a little confused too...

Maybe this word hasn't even entered your vocabulary yet.

Maybe you have heard it, but have no idea what it is about.

Either way, the "C" word has been oozing into society at a rather steady pace recently.

This post isn't to explain Calvinism in great detail or to explain why you should or shouldn't uphold these beliefs (I'm not a Calvinist, in case you wanted to know my slant..), instead it simply offers up some links and ideas to help grow your knowledge and understanding of one of the big theological discussions of our day.  You could say we're starting a conversation...

A Brief Introduction

Calvinism has been around for quite some time as it was based on the teaching of John Calvin (1509-1564).  Recently, it has become a much more prevalent theological discussion with one of the leaders being the president of nearby Southern Seminary in Louisville, Al Mohler.  While there is obviously a LOT more involved, the value that Calvinism holds to is that God has predestined who will and will not be saved.  The basic tenets of Calvin's teachings are held together in the acrostic TULIP.

For much more on John Calvin, his ideas, and Calvinism in general, check out this link:  Calvinism

Recently on youthmin.org, complimentary posts were written that discussed the effect that one's view of salvation had on the ministry that occurred.  One was written by a minister who has accepted Calvinism as a belief system the other by a friend of mine, Keith Parker, who holds to the opposing viewpoint known as Arminianism.  I encourage you to check out both!

Calvinism and Student Ministry
Arminianism and Student Ministry

Really a BRIEF intro to this idea that is causing a lot of confusion in today's churches; I would love to have a discussion with you about these ideas, so comment below or contact me personally.

Taking Root,
Blake