What is Reformed Arminianism?

Answer

The distinctions between Arminian theology and Reformed theology are widely recognized and frequently discussed. One proposed system of doctrine that seeks a middle ground is Amyraldism, also known as four-point Calvinism. Another attempt to reconcile Arminianism and Calvinism is Reformed Arminianism.

Reformed Arminianism may appear contradictory, considering the historical conflict between Reformed theology and Arminianism. However, this seeming contradiction is actually a compromise with roots in the General Baptist movement of seventeenth-century England. More recently, Free Will Baptists have advocated for Reformed Arminianism. This perspective adapts current forms of Wesleyanism to align more closely with the teachings of Jacobus Arminius.

Reformed Arminians reject the doctrines of perfectionism or entire sanctification that are present in some Arminian circles. Additionally, Reformed Arminianism embraces Reformed beliefs in original sin and total depravity, asserting that only through God’s grace and the Holy Spirit’s power can human depravity be overcome. Simultaneously, Reformed Arminianism upholds the Arminian perspective on predestination (God chose those He knew would believe) and the freedom of the will (individuals can resist the grace necessary for salvation).

Similar to Amyraldism, Reformed Arminianism advocates for an unlimited atonement, in contrast to Calvinism’s limited atonement. Nevertheless, Reformed Arminianism agrees with Calvinism on the nature of Christ’s atonement as a penal satisfaction that fulfills God’s justice requirements and on the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to believers for justification.

Reformed Arminianism also affirms the perseverance of the saints through faith alone—a principle shared with Calvinism—with a caveat. Reformed Arminians believe that while Christians can forfeit their salvation, it can only occur by renouncing their faith.

Arminians reject the concept, present in traditional Wesleyanism, that succumbing to sin will lead one to lose grace until repentance brings the sinner back to a state of grace. In essence, according to Reformed Arminianism, a believer cannot lose salvation, but can voluntarily give it up, and once they apostatize, they are lost forever.

Reformed Arminianism could be viewed as a form of “moderate Arminianism,” similar to how Amyraldism could be considered “moderate Calvinism.” Those who do not agree with all aspects of Arminianism, and those looking for a middle ground between Calvinism and Arminianism, may find Reformed Arminianism to be a satisfactory choice.