I was dialoguing with another Christian MZXer (very earnest, very eager to serve God, and quite the Calvinist to my Arminian.) So how 'bout that Calvinism, eh?
And while I'm at it, here's the challenge problem: Whether you like it or dislike it, why do you like it or dislike it? On the levels of personal response, theological responses, and--here's the real challenge--anyone seeing the Scriptural evidence on the issue?
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Howdy, this is his Calvinist friend.
I feel like Calvinism is most strongly rooted on the Bible (i.e. nobody has been able to show me a verse which has made me question any of the principles). Feel free to challenge me on this, I would love to look over verses about it.
i would never want to say or try to "prove" anything that would cause another person to doubt their faith, so i won't even attempt to give chapter and verse on "Why I Am An Arminian." i truly believe that much of the way we interpret scripture is based on our personalities. i like arminianism because it doesn't seem as harsh to me as calvinism. simple as that. of course, i am a not very bright person of an indeterminate age that really doesn't like to "discuss" issues. i just like to believe what i believe and let other people believe what they believe. i think maybe i'm lazy. nice to know Daniel has a Calvinist friend, however.
Calvinism DEFINITELY seems very harsh on first glance. Many of the members of Calvinism that I've seen are very bookish and quiet. I understand entirely about the "believe what I believe" part; my mother is the same way. But I do encourage you, if you think it is laziness causing it, get rid of the laziness! It will keep your faith fresh and new as you continuously put to death the deeds of the body. (Romans 8:12-13)
Well, preach it, Xeirxes! I haven't had a chance yet to think through a response, but I told Daniel I would post. So I am. Hope to post more later.
Please do, I've been discussing Calvinism vs. Arminianism daily with Daniel (not arguing generally, just discussing) and doing some proof-texting. He's come up with some really good texts that are making me think. And naturally, I love to think! Post soon. :)
xeirxes, thank you for your wise words. i should have probably taken the road of daniel's mom and thought a little bit more before i spoke, but i tend to shoot from the hip and think about it later. (shoot from the hip..i used to be a cowboy girl) it is good to know there are young people who are true believers. Keep the faith, Baby. (keep the faith, baby...a 70s term accompanied by the peace sign).
On the side, if you're looking for some good ideas on how to defend Christianity against someone who says it's wrong/worthless, I've found a great site (www.carm.org). This is generally more important to me than trying to bring an Arminian over to Calvinism, because I know that Arminians are Christians just as Calvinists are.
thank you again to xeirxes. i must admit i am not much of a defender. and i probably should be. i will be sure to check out the site you recommended.
you must be a very nice person to take the time to help an old lady across the street. i'm glad you are Daniel's friend.
Okay, I don't read as much "heavy, deep and real" stuff as you guys do, so maybe I don't understand true Calvinism. However, the problem I run into is the one that philosophers for centuries have run into ... the problem of evil. It seems like Calvinism (especially in its extremes) makes God responsible for evil, which I don't believe is possible for God, given what I believe the Bible teaches about God's nature. That's all for now.
I don't really think that's true. God surely has the power to stop sin, but He chose to create us (and apparently Lucifer) with free will. If a parent has a child whom they told to clean their room, and they disobey, is the parent responsible for their active disobedience?
Well yes if the parent created the child incapable of obeying. Which you must affirm if you are truly a Calvinist. Sorry to comment as anon. Can't navigate the other options!
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