Who are the New Calvinists, and what are the beliefs of New Calvinism?

Answer

New Calvinism is not a new branch of theology or a denomination. Instead, it is a revival of traditional, “old” Calvinism. The movement is spreading through American evangelical churches of all denominations, attracting young people from Free Church, Episcopal, Independent, Presbyterian, and Baptist churches alike. The Gospel Coalition, established in 2007, serves as the national network for the New Calvinist movement.

Calvinism upholds the authority of Scripture and the doctrines of God’s sovereignty, the total depravity of man, and predestination. These biblical teachings are appealing to many in the younger generation today, and churches in the Reformed tradition are experiencing a general increase in numbers. Hence, the impact of “New Calvinism.”

The resurgence of Calvinism may appear surprising, considering the popularity of the feel-good, prosperity theology of health-and-wealth preachers and books like Your Best Life Now. However, New Calvinism can also be viewed as a theological correction to erroneous doctrine—the pendulum is swinging back to a more biblical approach. Young people raised in an increasingly secular culture are seeking churches that teach the “meat” of the Word “But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”, (Hebrews 5:14) rather than aiming to entertain them. In this process, they are rediscovering many biblical truths about God, salvation, and grace.

Contributing to the “newness” of New Calvinism are seeker-friendly worship styles, a willingness to engage in dialogue with other Christian traditions, and an acceptance of continuationism. Given the diversity of the churches adopting New Calvinism, it is not surprising to find an emphasis on.

Focus less on the finer points of theology and more on engaging contemporary society. Mark Driscoll, a pastor associated with the movement, states, “New Calvinism is missional and aims to shape and redeem culture.” Driscoll is somewhat ambiguous on certain theological matters. In a recent interview, he proposes that some issues should not be contentious “because more significant matters are in play, such as the evangelization of the lost and the establishment of missional churches.” Flexibility, he argues, should be permitted in “spiritual gifts, baptism, communion, worship styles, Bible translations, and sense of humor.”

Some observers perceive two factions emerging within New Calvinism: the New Puritans and the New Calvinists. The New Puritans emphasize God’s sovereignty in salvation and are linked with Driscoll and John Piper. The New Calvinists emphasize God’s sovereignty over creation and are associated with Timothy Keller and Gabe Lyons.

One critique of New Calvinism—often voiced by traditional Calvinists—is that it’s not truly Calvinism. Being a Calvinist entails more than embracing the five points of Calvinism. It is argued that certain New Calvinist teachings on infant baptism, covenant theology, and the continuation of miraculous gifts of the Spirit diverge from the Reformed tradition.

There are numerous positive aspects of New Calvinism, such as its focus on the core tenets of the faith and its ability to draw young individuals into the church. The future success and impact of this emerging movement on postmodern society are yet to be determined.