THE CALVINIST RADIO NETWORK FAQ
Listener FAQ
1. What does “Calvinist” mean?
“Calvinist” refers to a stream of historic Christianity that emphasizes the Bible’s teaching about God’s sovereignty, human sinfulness, and salvation by grace alone through Jesus Christ alone. Calvinism is not about following a man, but about affirming doctrines that arise from Scripture and were clarified during the Protestant Reformation.
2. Is Calvinism based on John Calvin?
John Calvin was a 16th-century Reformer who helped articulate biblical doctrines that Christians had believed long before him. Calvinists do not follow Calvin as an authority; Scripture alone is our final authority. Calvin’s writings are valued only insofar as they faithfully explain the Bible.
3. What do Calvinists believe about salvation?
Calvinists believe that salvation is entirely the work of God’s grace. Because humanity is fallen and unable to save itself, God sovereignly chooses to save sinners through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Salvation is not earned by good works, but is a gift received by faith.
4. What are the “Doctrines of Grace”?
The Doctrines of Grace summarize what the Bible teaches about salvation. They are often expressed using the acronym TULIP:
- Total Depravity – Sin affects every part of human nature.
- Unconditional Election – God chooses to save according to His grace, not human merit.
- Limited (Definite) Atonement – Christ’s death effectively secured salvation for His people.
- Irresistible Grace – God’s saving call successfully brings sinners to faith.
- Perseverance of the Saints – Those whom God saves will be kept by His power.
These doctrines emphasize what God does in salvation, not human achievement.
5. Do Calvinists believe people have a choice?
Yes. Calvinists believe people make real choices and are responsible for them. At the same time, Scripture teaches that saving faith itself is a gift of God’s grace. God’s sovereignty and human responsibility are not contradictions but biblical truths held together.
6. Does Calvinism discourage evangelism?
No. Calvinism strongly affirms evangelism, missions, and the public proclamation of the gospel. God uses preaching and witness as the means by which He calls people to faith. Many of history’s most passionate evangelists and missionaries held Calvinistic convictions.
7. Are Calvinists all the same denomination?
No. Calvinistic theology is held by Christians in various denominations, including Reformed Baptist, Presbyterian, and Reformed traditions. Calvinist Radio Network is Baptist in conviction, affirming believer’s baptism and local church autonomy.
8. Is Calvinism harsh or unloving?
When properly understood, Calvinism highlights God’s mercy, patience, and saving grace toward undeserving sinners. It humbles human pride, magnifies Christ, and encourages gratitude, assurance, and joyful obedience.
9. What confession of faith does Calvinist Radio Network align with?
Calvinist Radio Network aligns doctrinally with the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith, which summarizes the historic Reformed Baptist understanding of Scripture, salvation, the church, and the Christian life.
10. Why does The Calvinist Radio Network emphasize these doctrines?
We believe these teachings faithfully reflect the message of the Bible and bring glory to God by exalting His grace. Our aim is not to argue, but to proclaim Christ, teach sound doctrine, and encourage believers in faith, worship, and obedience.
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