Calvinism vs Arminianism

[DC Al Fine]

Calvinism (Calvinist)

[DC Al Fine]

John Wesley is one of my biggest influences in terms of Christian theology.  Take a guess.

Calvinism (Calvinist)

Out of interest, is that your church's doctrine?

DC and Mung Beans are Presbyterians, so yes, that would be their church's doctrine.

I know that, but I needed some insight simply because given Presbyterianism is the 'state church' of Scotland in circles where it dominates (not that you can say it still does here) I've came across more of a variance within it.

I belong to the Presbyterian Church in America, which is explicitly Calvinist. I think Mung Beans is as well, but don't quote me on it.

[DC Al Fine]

My thought tends to fall in line with Arminianism. I can't really say I agree with Calvinism much at all, especially there being an "elect" as opposed to God's grace available to anyone and everyone willing to accept. God desires all to be saved, not a predetermined group

My feelings exactly.  While the Bible does mention predestination in some spots, I think I have to agree with the traditional Lutheran view: God predestines everyone for salvation, but they have to accept it first.

That's how I feel too. I have some trouble with the concept of predestination, and I think that issue is one of Calvinism's weak points. This might be simplistic, but I've always felt that even if there is an "elect", how exactly are we supposed to know who is a part of it and who isn't? It seems more Christ-like to tell everyone about the gift of salvation, since it is available to all, and then let each person accept or reject that gift on their terms.

Calvinists are still supposed to preach the Gospel to everyone. Whether you think it's God's calling or 100% free will, some people still won't be saved even if you preach to them. Besides, its not like we think we know who the elect are.

[DC Al Fine]

This is probably a stupid question, but why would a church which I presume is located in Canada be called the "Presbyterian Church in America?"

My church was originally part of the Reformed  Presbyterian Church, Evangelical Synod, which was mostly in the northern USA and Canada. The PCA absorbed the RPCES in the 1980's.

I'm also surprised that that's the Calvinist church you're a member of, considering its evolution to the left on some issues.

My congregation is to the right of the PCA at large, so I'm content where I am. Besides Calvinist churches aren't exactly thick in the ground where I am. If I left my current church, my options would be an ultraconservative Presbyterian church or a reformed Baptist church. I'm not sure which one I'd choose.