What is Provisionism?

Answer

The terms Provisionism and Provisionist are relatively new in the realm of Christian theology. These designations have been formally established and utilized only in recent years. In general, a Provisionist—someone who adheres to Provisionism—embraces an Arminian perspective on free will and salvation, with distinct differences such as a firm belief in eternal security. The core idea of Provisionism is that the gospel, as the Word of God, is inherently sufficient, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to prompt a response in all who hear God’s call to reconcile with Him (John 6:63;Hebrews 4:12).

The most evident disparities between Provisionist doctrine and traditional Reformed theology emerge in the notions of total depravity and limited atonement. Total depravity doctrine posits that all individuals are inherently sinful, to the extent that they cannot desire salvation without a direct, predetermined intervention by God. Provisionism, on the other hand, asserts that while all people are sinful and accountable for their sins, they are also responsible for responding to God’s universal call for salvation “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men,” (Titus 2:11). Limited atonement teaches that Christ died exclusively for those predestined by God as the elect. A Provisionist would dispute this, citing biblical passages that affirm Christ’s sacrifice for all individuals “and he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world,” (1 John 2:2), which is why God pledges to save all who approach Him in faith (Romans 10:11-13;Revelation 22:17).

(Romans 10:11-13; Revelation 22:17). The Provisionist believes that Christ genuinely desires the salvation of all humanity (Luke 5:32; Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 2:4-6;).

Essentially, this implies that a Provisionist would also oppose other Reformed doctrines such as irresistible grace.

The term Provisionism primarily originates from the works of theologian Leighton Flowers. It is also used to characterize the general approach to salvation embraced by most Southern and Independent Baptists. Concerning Reformed doctrine, this results in a specific disagreement on the topics of total depravity and limited atonement, as well as the precise interpretation of terms like predestined and elect.

Analogous to the TULIP in Calvinism, Provisionism can be outlined with the acronym PROVIDE (see https://soteriology101.com/about-2/statement-of-faith for more details):

People sin: Which has alienated everyone from communion with God.

Responsible: Capable of responding to God’s calls for reconciliation.

Open door: Available for anyone to enter through faith. Whoever desires may come to His welcoming embrace.

Vicarious atonement: Offers a path for anyone to be saved through Christ’s sacrifice.

Illuminating grace: Presents clearly disclosed truth so that all can comprehend and respond in faith.

Destroyed: Due to disbelief and rejection of the Holy Spirit.

Eternal security: Ensured for all genuine believers.

Throughout history, Christians have debated the intricate details of how human will and God’s sovereignty intersect in matters of salvation. While the specifics of Provisionism may not be embraced by certain believers, its principles fall well within the scope of orthodox Christian theology.