|
Hyper-calvinism is a theological system from the Calvinist tradition. It is a name given by its critics, who think that it deviates from the gospel by (i) denying the command for all men to repent and believe God's promise; and (ii) rejecting that conversion to the gospel immediately follows regeneration.
Denial of Indiscriminate Commandment for Repentance and Belief
Hyper-calvinists argue that since some people are incapable to repenting and believing the gospel, then all cannot be commanded to do so. They thus equate capability with responsibility. That is, God would be unjust to command men incapable of repentance and belief from those incapable of these fruits of regeneration. Furthermore, they assert that duty-faith implies that works are necessary for salvation. However, the Scriptural gospel distinguishes between prerequisites and necessary fruits. That is, in order to be saved a person is not required to perform any good works (for example repentance) -- since Christ said "It is finished" on the cross (Jn 19:11). However, when one is regenerated, God promises immediate fruits. Firstly, "that this is eternal life, that you may know God". Secondly, since "no idolater, fornicators ... will enter the kingdom of heaven" repentance must have occurred following re-birth for the person to have entered the kingdom of God.
Rejection of Conversion as an Immediate Fruit of Regeneration
Hyper-calvinists assert that people regenerated by the Holy Spirit can go for days, months or years without being converted (viz. understanding the gospel).
See also
|