FEB 2

Psalm 51:5
Memorise 2 Timothy 2:15
“…nourished up in the words of faith and good doctrine..”

The 5 points of Calvinism is known to most by the catchy acronym TULIP. TULIP stands for Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints. What many do not know is that it was not John Calvin who coined it. The 5 points of Calvinism were derived from Calvin’s doctrines by a gathering of Presbyterian ministers from around the world in 1618 at a meeting known as the Synod of Dort. The Synod was formed in response to the claims of a Professor Jakob Harmensen whose Latin name was Arminius. His followers were known as the Arminians. They made 5 claims concerning salvation that did not match what Scripture said, for they claimed that man does indeed have free will over his salvation. The Synod of Dort was then convened to answer the Arminians. From God’s Word and the teachings of Calvin, the members of the Synod all agreed that the Arminian doctrine was erroneous and produced the 5 points of Calvinism to respond to each of the 5 claims of the Arminians. These points gave all glory to God, for He alone is fully responsible for man’s salvation. 

You might shun the study of doctrines, thinking that it is too difficult and only meant for theologians. Remember that doctrines are written by men whose intentions are to explain or summarise what Scripture says about certain biblical topics. For example, the doctrine of the Trinity explains the 3 Persons of God as found in Scripture. God uses godly men to develop doctrines for our benefit so that we can better understand difficult ideas in the Bible. However, as with all man-made endeavours, not all doctrines are good. Good doctrines are those that are based on the Bible in its entirety. Bad doctrines are those that contain error. If we accept and practice good doctrines, they will draw us nearer to God. If we follow wrong doctrines, they will lead us to sin. Hence, it is very important that we test and ensure that doctrines are truly of God before we accept them. (1 John 4:1). This is done by comparing what the doctrines say with Scripture and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is also important to remember that man-made doctrines are not to be considered as equal to God’s Word. Always be prepared to reject any man-made doctrine if you find they are not consistent with Scripture. God’s Word is supreme. 

Thought: Best defense against False Doctrine: God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Father, help me to be a diligent student of Your Word.