NEO-CALVINISM VS THE BIBLE 051

ROMANS 4:5 • DR. ANDY WOODS • NOVEMBER 30, 2025 • NEO-CALVINISM VS THE BIBLE

Summary of [PowerPoint NeoCal-51

1. Purpose and Structure

• The deck critically examines Neo-Calvinism, especially the doctrine of “Perseverance of the Saints,” comparing Calvinist theology with biblical teachings.

• It explores the origins of Calvin’s theology, his life, and the influence of Augustine.

2. TULIP and Calvinism

• The presentation runs through the five points of Calvinism (TULIP): Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints.

• Special focus is given to “Perseverance of the Saints,” highlighting Calvinist definitions, examples, and perceived problems.

3. Critique of Perseverance of the Saints

• The deck argues that Calvinism’s assurance of salvation is based more on the believer’s faithfulness than on God’s keeping power, leading to uncertainty about ultimate salvation.

• It cites various theologians and historical examples to show that Calvinist teaching can undermine assurance and foster anxiety about salvation1.

4. Biblical Assurance of Salvation

• Contrasts Calvinist views with biblical passages that emphasize assurance through faith alone (e.g., 1 John 5:13, John 3:16, Romans 4:5).

• Argues that salvation is conditioned on faith alone (sola fide), not on continual perseverance or works.

5. Problems Identified

• Claims Calvinist perseverance leads to:

• Unbiblical views of final salvation

• Support from out-of-context verses

• A subtle form of works-based salvation

• Less emphasis on sanctification and the Bema Seat

• Destruction of assurance of salvation1

6. Theological and Historical Commentary

• Includes quotes from Calvin, Chafer, MacArthur, Piper, White, and others to illustrate differing views on faith, assurance, and perseverance.

• Notes historical anxiety among Calvinist theologians about their own salvation.

7. Grammatical Analysis

• Discusses the use of present tense participles in biblical Greek, arguing that continual belief is not always required for salvation.

8. Conclusion

• The deck concludes that Calvinism imposes philosophical ideas onto Scripture, distorting biblical teaching about assurance and salvation.

• Urges readers to base their understanding of salvation on Scripture alone, not on theological systems1.