Definition

1. Noun:
   • A theological doctrine: Arminianism is a school of Protestant Christian theology developed in the 17th century by Jacobus Arminius. It emphasizes the compatibility of God's sovereignty with human free will and opposes the Calvinist doctrine of absolute predestination.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The debate between Calvinism and Arminianism has been central to many Protestant denominations.
  • His sermons reflected a clear belief in Arminianism, focusing on human responsibility in salvation.

Advanced Usage

• In theological discourse: Arminianism is often discussed in contrast to Calvinism, particularly regarding the doctrines of grace, predestination, and the extent of the atonement.
  • The council convened to discuss the implications of Arminianism for the church's articles of faith.

Variants and Related Words

• Arminian (adj): Pertaining to Arminianism or its teachings.
  • He held Arminian views on election.
• Arminian (n): A follower or proponent of Arminianism.
  • The Arminians presented their remonstrance to the state.

Synonyms

• Remonstrant theology (historical synonym from the initial Dutch movement).
• Synergism (in a specific theological sense, referring to the cooperation of human and divine will in salvation).

Related Phrases

• Arminian controversy: Refers to the historical and ongoing theological disputes between Arminian and Calvinist doctrines.
  • The Arminian controversy shaped the canons of the Synod of Dort.

Noun

1. 17th century theology (named after its founder Jacobus Arminius) that opposes the absolute predestinarianism of John Calvin and holds that human free will is compatible with God's sovereignty