(Christiainity) Change in the definition of "Reformed"?
It seems to me that the "title" reformed has changed in meaning. I am not one big into labels... however I would consider myself reformed, by the reformers definition.
The reformers staked their lives on the claims of "The 5 Solas:" 1 Sola scriptura ("by Scripture alone") 2 Sola fide ("by faith alone") 3 Sola gratia ("by grace alone") 4 Solus Christus or Solo Christo ("Christ alone" or "through Christ alone") 5 Soli Deo gloria ("glory to God alone")
Today however reformed theology and Calvinism seem to be used interchangeably. Why?
Don't get me wrong I have no through beef with Calvinism. I just do not (personally) think your views on predestination are as vital. Certainly it was not pointed to by the reformers.
Anyone else feel me on this?
Jonathan2009-09-27T12:59:42Z
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That's a good question. I think you can include the doctrines of Calvinism with the doctrines of the reformation. Luther obviously subscribed to them, which is evident in his book on "The Bondage of the Will." And they are implied by Sola gratia, and by Soli Deo gloria.
I'm not an expert on Calvinism or any "ism", but probably why the word reform is associated with Calvinism so much is because Calvin played such a big part in the reform, and helped outline some of the basic teachings of the reform movement. The pre-destination part I think is a bit overblown. I don't think Calvin meant it in the way that we know it today, but like I said I'm not an expert. I do know that there is such a thing as taking a theology and blowing it out of proportion.
Isn't it ironic that they claim "Sola Scriptura" but then make Calvin their pope in interpreting the Bible? Shouldn't the individual read and interpret the Bible for themselves? I'm concerned that we have gone far from the truth in all these theologies that are taught in churches but should be learned from individuals carefully examining what is taught in the Bible. I think teachers have their place, but we need to "own" what we believe and be fully convinced of our own beliefs, not just base it on what we were brainwashed to believe.
I attend a reformed church, and had the same question. It actually didn't change, as the reformers felt the same way that reformed christians do today. Luther was a reformer, but so was Calvin. Actually, Calvin wasn't really a calvinist, if that makes any sense. Luther believed in reformed faith and predestination and the five solas. They are actually the same thing.