296: Calvinism vs. Arminianism: Are We Even Asking the Right Question?

In this episode Kenny tackles one of the most heated debates amongst evangelicals: Calvinism vs. Arminianism.

Kenny gives the history of Calvinism and Reformed theology, and then explains the Dutch Remonstrance movement that came out of the Reformed movement and would give birth to the theological system we now call Arminianism and led to the debates at the Synod of Dort.

Finally, Kenny explains that the “Calvinism vs. Arminianism” debate isn’t the most helpful way to frame the debate and isn’t the ideal question because there are actually other camps to consider; but rather the more helpful framing for the debate is Monergism vs. Synergism.

What is Monergism? Monergism is the theological term used by Christians to explain that salvation is fully the work of God. The prefix “mono” means “one” and it is used to signify that salvation comes from “one” being—in this case referring to God being the one who brings about salvation. If any person is saved by Jesus, the proponents of monergism would argue that the Spirit of God must first grant that person the desire and ability to believer.

What is Synergism? Synergism is the theological term used by Christians to explain that the salvation of humans is a cooperative work between God and man. If any person is saved by Jesus, the proponents of synergism would argue that the Spirit of God works on the heart of the person to woe them to God, but that  the decisive action that leads to salvation is ultimately in the hands of the person—they must use their free will to believe, and God cannot override their will.