Short Answer: While most people know me to be an opponent of Extreme Calvinism, I have no problem with the label “Moderate Calvinist.” A “Classical Moderate Calvinist” looks nothing like what most people think of when they think of Calvinism. Read below to find out.
Calvinism, based on the teachings of John Calvin, has been a significant influence on Christian theology. Over time, however, differences have emerged within Calvinist thought, creating distinctions between extreme Calvinism and moderate Calvinism. Dr. Norman Geisler, a staunch advocate for moderate Calvinism, offers a balanced approach that upholds God’s sovereignty while preserving human responsibility.
Dr. Geisler has become a great mentor. I have been so impacted by his ministry, I am in the process of receiving a Doctorate Degree in Apologetics from his seminary.
Let’s explore the key differences between these two perspectives, why Dr. Geisler’s moderate Calvinism is the better approach, and how it practically impacts our lives.
What Is Calvinism?
Calvinism is traditionally summarized by the five points represented by the acronym TULIP:
1. Total Depravity – Humans are completely sinful and unable to come to God on their own.
2. Unconditional Election – God chooses whom He will save, independent of human merit.
3. Limited Atonement – Christ died only for the elect.
4. Irresistible Grace – Those whom God calls will inevitably come to Him.
5. Perseverance of the Saints – True believers will remain faithful until the end.
Extreme Calvinism vs. Moderate Calvinism
While both extreme and moderate Calvinism affirm these points, they differ significantly in how they interpret and apply them.
1. Total Depravity
• Extreme Calvinism: Humans are so depraved that they cannot even respond to God’s call unless first regenerated by the Holy Spirit.
• Moderate Calvinism: Agrees with human depravity but emphasizes that God’s prevenient grace enables all people to respond to the gospel.
Geisler’s View: Dr. Geisler argues that extreme Calvinism denies human responsibility by requiring regeneration before faith. Instead, he teaches that God’s grace makes salvation genuinely available to everyone (Titus 2:11).
2. Unconditional Election
• Extreme Calvinism: God predestines individuals to salvation or damnation without considering their response.
• Moderate Calvinism: God’s election is based on His foreknowledge of who will freely choose Him.
Geisler’s View: Geisler supports the idea that God’s election is consistent with human free will (Romans 8:29). He believes that while God’s sovereignty is absolute, it does not negate human responsibility or freedom.
3. Limited Atonement
• Extreme Calvinism: Christ died only for the elect.
• Moderate Calvinism: Christ’s death was sufficient for all but efficient only for those who believe.
Geisler’s View: Dr. Geisler firmly rejects limited atonement, affirming that Christ’s sacrifice was for all humanity (1 John 2:2). He believes that extreme Calvinism distorts the universal offer of salvation.
4. Irresistible Grace
• Extreme Calvinism: God’s grace is irresistible; the elect cannot reject it.
• Moderate Calvinism: God’s grace is powerful but not coercive; individuals can choose to accept or reject it.
Geisler’s View: Geisler argues that love requires freedom. If God’s grace were irresistible, human choice would be meaningless. Instead, God draws people to Himself without overriding their will (Matthew 23:37).
5. Perseverance of the Saints
• Extreme Calvinism: True believers will never fall away, regardless of their actions.
• Moderate Calvinism: Believers are secure in Christ, but perseverance involves active faith and obedience.
Geisler’s View: Geisler affirms eternal security but emphasizes that true faith results in a transformed life (Philippians 2:12-13).
Why Dr. Geisler Is Right
Dr. Geisler’s moderate Calvinism offers a biblically balanced perspective that avoids the pitfalls of extreme Calvinism:
1. Preserves God’s Character: Extreme Calvinism risks portraying God as arbitrary or unloving by limiting His grace and atonement. Geisler’s view highlights God’s love for all and His desire for everyone to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4).
2. Affirms Human Responsibility: Moderate Calvinism maintains the biblical tension between God’s sovereignty and human freedom. This upholds the integrity of evangelism and personal accountability (Romans 10:9-13).
3. Supports Evangelism and Missions: Extreme Calvinism’s focus on limited atonement and irresistible grace can undermine the urgency of sharing the gospel. Geisler’s view motivates believers to proclaim Christ universally, trusting God to work through their efforts (Matthew 28:19-20).
Practical Applications
1. Evangelize Boldly.
- If Christ’s atonement is for all and God’s grace is available to everyone, we can confidently share the gospel with anyone, knowing that God desires their salvation (2 Peter 3:9).
2. Trust God’s Sovereignty
- Even in the face of uncertainty, we can trust that God’s sovereign plan is perfect and good. This provides peace in trials and encouragement in ministry (Romans 8:28).
3. Take Responsibility for Your Choices
- Moderate Calvinism teaches that our choices matter. We are called to live holy lives, pursue Christ, and work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12-13).
4. Rest in God’s Grace
- While we are responsible for our faith and obedience, our salvation ultimately rests in God’s grace, not our works. This truth brings assurance and joy to our walk with Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Bottom Line
The differences between extreme and moderate Calvinism boil down to how we understand God’s sovereignty and human freedom. Dr. Norman Geisler’s moderate Calvinism offers a biblically faithful approach that maintains God’s control while affirming human responsibility.
By embracing this balanced view, we gain a clearer understanding of God’s character, a deeper appreciation for His grace, and a renewed passion for sharing the gospel. Let this perspective shape how we live, trust, and serve our sovereign and loving God.
