# John Calvin | What is Calvinism & Reformed Theology? > The new awakening ## Posts - [The Five Solas of the Reformation: Soli Deo Gloria](https://johncalvin.com/the-five-solas-of-the-reformation-soli-deo-gloria/): In the final installment of our Solas series, we hit on one of the major themes of the Reformed faith: Soli Deo Gloria, Latin for “Glory to God Alone.” This one phrase encapsulates the principle underpinning the essence of faith – that every action, endeavor, and facet of existence is to be directed towards the worship and glory of God while rejecting the pursuit of self-glorification and pride. At its core, Soli Deo Gloria shifts our focus from personal success to divine glory. It’s a call to reorient our motivations and inspirations, finding fulfillment not in the works and reputation […] - [The Five Solas of the Reformation: Sola Scriptura](https://johncalvin.com/the-five-solas-of-the-reformation-sola-scriptura/): Exploring the Five Solas of the Reformation If you’ve spent any time on this website, you know that John Calvin and Martin Luther were giants of the faith. They kicked off a series of events in the 1500s that we call the Reformation. Both men were essential in formulating teachings we know today as Reformed Theology. Both men had innovative ideas that continue to shape our world. They also both used their lives for the glory of God. It might be surprising that neither Calvin nor Luther ever summarized their teachings in any way. Instead, centuries later, Reformed Christians devised […] - [The Five Solas of the Reformation: Solus Christus](https://johncalvin.com/the-five-solas-of-the-reformation-solus-christus/): In our previous post, we introduced you to the five solas of the Reformation: Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), Solus Christus (Christ alone), Sola fide (faith alone), Sola gratia (grace alone), and Soli Deo gloria (glory to God alone). We also shared the concise summary of the Gospel these solas create: “Christians are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, as revealed by Scripture alone, to the glory of God alone.” Now, let’s delve into the meaning of solus Christus. It’s essential to understand that each of these solas is built upon the foundation of sola Scriptura. Scripture […] - [The Five Solas of the Reformation: Sola Fide](https://johncalvin.com/the-five-solas-of-the-reformation-sola-fide/): In our previous post, we talked about the amazing truth that being saved is only possible through Christ. He’s the only one who can make things right between us and God. Continuing this exploration of the Five Solas of the Reformation, we now focus on the pivotal concept of Sola Fide, commonly known as “faith alone.” Sola Fide means that all the benefits of Christ’s saving love come to us when we trust and believe in Him. As we unravel the depths of this doctrine, we uncover a truth that challenges conventional notions of our day and invites us to […] - [The Five Solas of the Reformation: Sola Gratia](https://johncalvin.com/the-five-solas-of-the-reformation-sola-gratia/): The phrase “by the grace of God” is so common these days that it may almost seem meaningless. But for Reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin, being saved by the grace of God alone (aka sola gratia—the fourth sola in our solas series) was essential to understanding salvation. Indeed, for Luther, Calvin, and the other Reformers, any denial of sola gratia meant that people could save themselves apart from God. This, they taught, was against everything the Bible teaches about humanity and God. This is why it’s really important for Christians and non-Christians alike to really get what sola […] - [5 Doctrines of Grace, Why Do They Matter Today?](https://johncalvin.com/5-doctrines-of-grace-why-do-they-matter-today/): In our series up to now, we have explained the five points of Calvinism, also known as the five doctrines of grace. But you may still wonder, “Why does this matter to me in the 21st century?” In the ever-evolving landscape of modern culture, family dynamics, and even within the walls of the church, the five doctrines of grace remain an essential foundation for understanding who we are and who God is. These five doctrines—total depravity, unconditional election, limited (definite) atonement, irresistible grace, and preserving grace—serve as a summary of God’s saving grace that points us toward the unchanging truth […] - [John Calvin and Pre-Revolutionary War America
- Part 1 New World](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-and-pre-revolutionary-war-america-part-1-new-world/): John Calvin in Pre-Revolutionary War America In the tumultuous era leading up to the American Revolution, the religious landscape of the thirteen colonies played a significant role in shaping the course of history. Amidst a diverse array of beliefs and practices, John Calvin’s teachings emerged as a dominant theological framework that profoundly influenced early America’s social, political, and cultural fabric. This may sound quite astonishing, as John Calvin lived and died almost a century before the American Colonies even existed. But the men and women Calvin taught and influenced during his time impacted many of the people who ended up […] - [John Calvin and Pre-Revolutionary War America
- Part 2: The Puritans](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-and-pre-revolutionary-war-america-part-2-the-puritans/): The Influence of Calvinism on the Puritans in Massachusetts The renowned Protestant reformer John Calvin profoundly influenced the New England Puritans’ religious and cultural development. As descendants of Calvin’s theological tradition, the Puritans sought to create a society inspired by Calvin’s teachings on predestination, divine sovereignty, and the pursuit of a righteous life. Calvin’s theological framework provided the intellectual foundation and moral guidance that shaped the Puritans’ religious fervor, commitment to education, and vision of establishing a “City upon a Hill” —a place where others could look and be inspired to live similar godly lives. In this second part of […] - [John Calvin and Pre-Revolutionary War America
- Part 3: The Dutch Reformed](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-and-pre-revolutionary-war-america-part-3-the-dutch-reformed/): The Influence of Calvinism on the Dutch Reformed in New York In this third part of our series, we will examine Calvin’s influence on the Dutch Reformed community in New York. Thanks to the exploration of Henry Hudson under the patronage of the Dutch West India Company, Dutch colonists began to settle in the territory known as New Netherlands (aka New York). The bustling city we know today as New York City was actually a Dutch Reformed colony known as New Amsterdam. Here they established outposts and forts to facilitate commercial enterprises. And while religion may not have been the […] - [John Calvin and Pre-Revolutionary War America
- Part 4: The Huguenots](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-and-pre-revolutionary-war-america-part-4-the-huguenots/): The Influence of Calvinism on the Huguenot Community in North Carolina In this final part of our journey, we delve into the captivating world of John Calvin’s influence on the Huguenot community in North Carolina. Long ago, amidst the tumultuous waves of religious violence in France, brave French Huguenots sought sanctuary from persecution and cast their eyes across the vast ocean to the distant lands of America. As they forged new communities in the warm embrace of North Carolina, their Calvinist faith served as a guiding light, shaping their daily lives, values, and interactions with one another. While only two […] - [What Was the Effect of the Reformation on the Arts?](https://johncalvin.com/which-was-an-effect-of-the-reformation-on-the-arts/): When we think of the Reformation, we typically associate it with religious and social change in Europe during the 16th century. However, there is a less explored aspect of the Reformation – its impact on art, creativity, and cultural expression. As artists challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and the grandeur of its artistic traditions, they forged new paths for artistic expression, which was an effect of the reformation on the arts. The Reformation paved the way for revolutionary forms of art that were unique, thought-provoking, and emotive. The ideals of Protestantism infused artistic traditions, and artists began using […] - [How Did John Calvin Impact the Protestant Reformation?](https://johncalvin.com/how-did-john-calvin-impact-the-protestant-reformation/): Within this storm of religious awakening, a significant figure emerged, impacting and shaping the Reformation from its very core: John Calvin. Known for his theological genius and unwavering dedication to religious reforms, he has etched his achievements in history as key drivers of the Reformation. - [What Did John Calvin and Martin Luther Have in Common?](https://johncalvin.com/what-did-john-calvin-and-martin-luther-have-in-common/): These two luminaries, separated by time and space, played pivotal roles in shaping the Protestant Reformation. Luther, with his Ninety-Five Theses, boldly challenged the corrupt practices of the Catholic Church, igniting a fire of dissent that spread across Europe. - [The Five Points of Calvinism - Perseverance of the Saints](https://johncalvin.com/five-points-of-calvinism-perseverance-of-the-saints/): Before we go further into explaining the beautiful doctrine of perseverance, we must address the elephant in the room. When we say the “perseverance of the saints,” we don’t mean the kind of saints you see being honored in the Roman Catholic church with their halos and candles. - [What Religious Denomination Was Born Out of the Reformation?](https://johncalvin.com/what-religious-denomination-was-born-out-of-the-reformation/): In this article, we will uncover the answer to the question that has fascinated scholars and believers alike: "What religious denomination was born out of the Reformation?". We will explore these religious denominations, their historical context, core beliefs, and their influence on other denominations. - [Why Did John Calvin Write the Institutes of the Christian Religion?](https://johncalvin.com/why-did-john-calvin-write-the-institutes-of-the-christian-religion/): In the realm of theological literature, few works have had as profound an impact as John Calvin's 'The Institutes of the Christian Religion'. A towering figure of the Protestant Reformation, Calvin crafted this magnum opus with a purpose that resonated far beyond his time. Why did John Calvin write 'The Institutes of the Christian Religion'? - [Which Statement Best Defines the Teachings of John Calvin?](https://johncalvin.com/which-statement-best-defines-the-teachings-of-john-calvin/): John Calvin, a prominent figure of the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, left an indelible mark on Christian theology. His teachings, known as Calvinism, have shaped the understanding of countless believers throughout history. Central to Calvin's theology are concepts like predestination, human depravity, and the authority of Scripture. - [How did the Catholic Church respond to the Protestant Reformation?](https://johncalvin.com/how-did-the-catholic-church-respond-to-the-protestant-reformation/): The Protestant Reformation of the 16th century was a major challenge to the Catholic Church's authority and power, which marked a significant turning point in the history of the Christian Church. Led by figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, Protestants challenged the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and its teachings, leading to a period of religious upheaval and division. - [The Five Points of Calvinism - Irresistible Grace](https://johncalvin.com/five-points-of-calvinism-irresistible-grace/): Irresistible grace is the fourth point in the five points of Calvinism. It is sometimes thought of as the one that holds them all together. This is because, without God’s irresistible grace, the work of salvation can never begin. A century after Calvin, people were in an uproar about it. Debates broke out about how people came to believe in Jesus. Did people just will themselves into belief? - [How Did Martin Luther Start the Protestant Reformation?](https://johncalvin.com/how-did-martin-luther-start-the-protestant-reformation/): The Protestant Reformation was a transformative religious, political, and cultural movement that altered the course of European history in the 16th century. At its heart was a German monk named Martin Luther, whose ideas sparked a spiritual revolution that eventually gave rise to new forms of Christianity. His defiance against the Catholic Church and his enduring legacy are closely intertwined with those of John Calvin and other key figures in the Reformation movement. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of Martin Luther’s journey, his principles, accomplishments, and lasting influence on the Reformation landscape. The Making of a Reformer: […] - [The Five Points of Calvinism - Limited Atonement](https://johncalvin.com/five-points-of-calvinism-limited-atonement/): Limited atonement is often considered the most controversial point of the Five Points of Calvinism. This is because, like Unconditional Election, it is often deemed unfair for God to save some and not others. Nevertheless, despite its controversy, limited atonement has been essential in the Reformed understanding of salvation from Calvin to today. - [The Five Points of Calvinism - Unconditional Election](https://johncalvin.com/five-points-of-calvinism-unconditional-election/): For Calvin and the Reformers, the salvation of man rested on God’s determination alone. This simply means that God did not base His decision to save us on anything we do or say. Instead, it is solely God’s sovereign choice to save whoever He wants. Reformed theologians refer to this sovereign choice as “Unconditional Election.” This is the second point of the five points of Calvinism or the U in TULIP. - [Martin Luther vs. John Calvin](https://johncalvin.com/martin-luther-vs-john-calvin/): The online search phrase "Martin Luther vs. John Calvin" is made hundreds of times a month by those discovering the richness of church history for the first time, and rightly so. No religious reformers influenced the world more than these two Titans of Christianity. Though the Protestant Reformation passed the five-hundred-year milestone in 2017, the air is still abuzz with the sound of their voices. - [The Five Points of Calvinism - Total Depravity](https://johncalvin.com/five-points-of-calvinism/): Total depravity is the Reformed teaching that every single person is totally estranged from God. It teaches that humans are all corrupted by sin; no one could ever hope to be in a right relationship with God on their own merit. Total depravity is often connected to the doctrine of original sin. This doctrine does not refer to the first sin or to the origin of sin. - [Who is Jesus? The God-Man](https://johncalvin.com/who-is-jesus-the-god-man/): Jesus is the most famous historical figure in the world. He has been simultaneously admired, hated, obeyed, mocked, and worshiped. And while everyone has heard about Jesus, few today seem to know who He really is. - [Who is Jesus? The Great I AM](https://johncalvin.com/who-is-jesus-the-great-i-am/): Did Jesus really ever claim to be divine? Was He God? Or was He just a wise man who taught people to be kind and to love? These are questions that continue to plague the modern mind. - [Who is Jesus? Prophet, Priest, King](https://johncalvin.com/who-is-jesus-prophet-priest-king/): Jesus is the Prophet that made God’s Word live in us. He is the Priest that shed His blood for us. He is the King that rules over us with justice and peace. Discover more about Jesus, the Prophet, Priest and King. - [Who is Jesus? Risen and Reigning Lord](https://johncalvin.com/who-is-jesus-the-risen-and-reigning-lord/): Jesus has been raised from the dead. And, He ascended to Heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father. Jesus died but isn't dead. He is risen and reigning as Lord over the whole universe. - [Who Was John Calvin?](https://johncalvin.com/who-was-john-calvin/): There is no name that shines more brightly in the constellation of Evangelical Reformers than French theologian and pastor John Calvin (1509- 1564). - [Reformed Theology is the simple yet life-transforming truth of biblical Christianity](https://johncalvin.com/reformed-theology-is-the-simple-yet-life-transforming-truth-of-biblical-christianity/): Reformed Theology is the simple yet life-transforming truth of biblical Christianity - [John Calvin's Life & Legacy](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-life-and-legacy-part-1/): John Calvin is one of the most influential thought leaders in history. His life and legacy have impacted the modern world. - [John Calvin's Written Work](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-pt-2-his-written-works/): John Calvin's written works have shaken generations of people. They are rich in spiritual depth yet simple enough for anyone to read and understand. - [John Calvin's Life In Geneva](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-life-and-legacy-part-3/): Geneva, Switzerland is where John Calvin spent 24 years of his ministry. Discover more about his incredible experiences in life and ministry while there. - [John Calvin & Early America](https://johncalvin.com/john-calvin-early-american-influence/): America was radically influenced by John Calvin. His ideas shaped its history, religion, & culture. - [Foundation Truths](https://johncalvin.com/what-is-reformed-theology-part-one/): What is Reformed Theology? - Part One. God's Sovereignty & the Scriptures - [The Beginnings](https://johncalvin.com/what-is-reformed-theology-john-calvin-part-two/): What is Reformed Theology? - Part Two. The Reformation, Martin Luther & John Calvin - [What Is Salvation?](https://johncalvin.com/what-is-reformed-theology-salvation-part-three/): What is Reformed Theology? - Part Three. One sacrifice & Mediator, Union with Christ. - [Life of Worship](https://johncalvin.com/what-is-reformed-theology-part-four/): What is Reformed Theology? – Part Four. The Lord’s Day, the Word, the sacraments - [What Is Reformed Theology?](https://johncalvin.com/what-is-reform-theology/): What is Reformation Theology and why should you care? ## Pages - [The Five Solas](https://johncalvin.com/the-five-solas/): The Five Solas - [Blog](https://johncalvin.com/blog/): Blog - [Who Is Jesus](https://johncalvin.com/who-is-jesus/): Who Is Jesus - [Connect](https://johncalvin.com/connect/): Connect How Can We Help? Main Office JohnCalvin.com10752 Deerwood Park Blvd. Ste. 100Jacksonville, FL 32256 - [Reformed Theology](https://johncalvin.com/reformed-theology/): Reformed Theology - [Who is John Calvin](https://johncalvin.com/who-is-john-calvin/): Who is John Calvin - [About Calvin Bryant](https://johncalvin.com/about-calvin-bryant-founder-johncalvin/): Statement of Faith & Founder Calvin Bryant, FounderJacksonville, Florida About The Founder Calvin Bryant is a devoted follower of Jesus and an avid history enthusiast. He founded JohnCalvin.com in 2023 to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, uphold the legacy of John Calvin, and share the inspiring truth of his teachings, sermons, and doctrines. He shares, “Bible-believing Christians today have a rich heritage of faith. Our forefathers studied the Scriptures diligently. They proclaimed God’s kingdom, and were empowered by the Holy Spirit. They crossed oceans, explored new frontiers and gave their lives for Christ. Although they had different views on […] - [John Calvin](https://johncalvin.com/): A NEW AWAKENING John Calvin’s sermons, letters, and commentaries ignited the fires of revival burning in Geneva, London, Paris, Edinburgh, and shortly after, the shores of America. His teachings helped forge a new nation and boldly proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ to a dark world desperate for its light. John Calvin & Pre-Revolutionary War America The Five Doctrines of Grace The Five Solas Who Was John Calvin? There is no name that shines more brightly in the constellation of Evangelical Reformers than  French theologian and pastor  John Calvin (1509- 1564).  The 16th century, which was the incubator of the Protestant […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)