Understanding Calvinism: What denominations are Calvinists?

 What are the core beliefs of Calvinism?

Calvinism, named after the 16th-century reformer John Calvin, is a theological tradition within Protestant Christianity that emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the authority of the Bible. At its heart, Calvinism is characterized by five key doctrines, often remembered by the acronym TULIP:

Total Depravity: This doctrine teaches that sin has affected every aspect of human nature. As a result, humans are unable to turn to God on their own. It does not mean that people are as evil as they could be, but rather that sin has touched every part of our being.

Unconditional Election: This belief holds that God, in His sovereign will, has chosen some people for salvation. This election is not based on any foreseen merit or faith in the individual, but solely on God’s grace.

Limited Atonement: Also known as “particular redemption,” this doctrine teaches that Christ’s sacrificial death was intended to save the elect. While Christ’s atonement is sufficient for all, it is efficient only for those chosen by God.

Irresistible Grace: This concept suggests that God’s call to the elect is so powerful that it cannot be rejected. The Holy Spirit works in the hearts of the chosen, ensuring that they will come to faith.

Perseverance of the Saints: This doctrine teaches that those who are truly saved will persevere in their faith until the end. It is often expressed as “once saved, always saved.”

Beyond these five points, Calvinism emphasizes the glory of God as the highest purpose of human existence. It stresses the importance of Scripture as the ultimate authority for faith and practice, and it views the church as a covenant community of believers.

While these doctrines may seem complex, at their core is the belief in a sovereign, loving God who takes the initiative in our salvation. Calvinism seeks to emphasize God’s grace and to give Him all the glory for our redemption.

But we must approach these doctrines with humility, recognizing that the mysteries of God’s ways are often beyond our full comprehension. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!” (Romans 11:33)

Which major Christian denominations are considered Calvinist?

The influence of Calvinism has spread far and wide since the time of the Reformation, shaping many Protestant denominations. While the extent of Calvinist influence varies, several major Christian denominations are considered to have strong Calvinist roots or to adhere to Calvinist theology to a major degree.

We must mention the Presbyterian churches, which are perhaps the most well-known Calvinist denominations (Batlajery, 2017, p. 127). These churches, found in many countries around the world, trace their roots directly to the Reformed tradition of John Calvin and other reformers. They are characterized by their Presbyterian system of church governance, which involves rule by elders.

The Reformed churches, particularly those in continental Europe and their offshoots worldwide, are also firmly rooted in Calvinist theology. This includes the Dutch Reformed Church and its various branches (Batlajery, 2017, p. 127). In fact, in Indonesia alone, forty-eight churches belonging to the Communion of Churches declare themselves to be Calvinist or Reformed, spanning from Sumatra to Papua (Batlajery, 2017, p. 127).

The Congregationalist churches, which have their origins in English Puritanism, also have strong Calvinist influences. While they differ from Presbyterians in their approach to church governance, they share many theological perspectives.

In the Anglican Communion, we find a spectrum of theological positions, but the Reformed or Calvinist influence is major, especially in what is known as the “Low Church” tradition. This is particularly evident in some evangelical Anglican churches (Lewis, 2023, pp. 338–364).

Some Baptist denominations, particularly those known as Reformed Baptists, adhere to Calvinist theology while maintaining their distinctive beliefs about baptism and church governance (Bulthuis, 2019, pp. 255–290). It’s important to note, But that not all Baptists are Calvinists.

In addition, many non-denominational and independent churches, especially those with a Reformed or evangelical bent, may hold to Calvinist doctrines to varying degrees.

The influence of Calvinism extends beyond these specific denominations. Many churches and individual believers across various Protestant traditions have been shaped by Calvinist thought, even if they don’t fully embrace all aspects of Calvinist theology.

We must remember, But that within each of these denominations, there can be a range of theological perspectives. Not every member or even every congregation within these denominations may fully adhere to all aspects of Calvinist theology. The body of Christ is diverse, and we should celebrate this diversity while maintaining our unity in essential matters of faith.

How do Calvinist denominations differ from other Protestant traditions?

While all Protestant traditions share certain core beliefs, Calvinist denominations have distinctive characteristics that set them apart from other Protestant groups. These differences are rooted in their theological emphases, worship practices, and approaches to church governance.

Calvinist denominations are distinguished by their strong emphasis on the sovereignty of God in all aspects of life, particularly in salvation. This is reflected in the “TULIP” doctrines we discussed earlier. While other Protestant traditions may agree with some aspects of these doctrines, Calvinists tend to emphasize them more strongly and systematically (Bulthuis, 2019, pp. 255–290).

In contrast, many other Protestant traditions, such as Methodists and some Baptists, place a greater emphasis on human free will in the process of salvation. They may view God’s grace as resistible and believe that individuals can choose to accept or reject God’s offer of salvation. This theological difference can lead to distinct approaches in evangelism and understanding of the Christian life.

Calvinist denominations also tend to have a high view of church discipline and the role of the church in the believer’s life. They often see the church as a covenant community, with responsibilities and obligations for its members. This can contrast with some other Protestant traditions that may have a more individualistic approach to faith (Smidt et al., 2003, pp. 515–532).

In terms of worship, Calvinist churches historically have been characterized by a focus on the preaching of the Word and a simpler, less ceremonial style of worship. While practices vary widely today, there is often still an emphasis on expository preaching and congregational singing of psalms and hymns. This can differ from Lutheran traditions, which may have a stronger emphasis on liturgy, or charismatic traditions, which may focus more on experiential worship (Kuryliak & Polumysna, 2021).

Regarding church governance, many Calvinist denominations follow a Presbyterian model, with rule by elders and a system of church courts. This differs from Episcopal systems (as in Anglicanism) which have bishops, or congregational systems where each local church is autonomous (Smidt et al., 2003, pp. 515–532).

Calvinist denominations often place a strong emphasis on education and intellectual engagement with faith. This has historically led to the establishment of schools and colleges, and a tradition of rigorous theological study. While other Protestant traditions also value education, the Calvinist emphasis on understanding and articulating doctrine can be particularly pronounced (Batlajery, 2017, p. 127).

In their approach to culture and society, Calvinist traditions have often emphasized the concept of “transforming culture” or bringing all areas of life under the Lordship of Christ. This can lead to active engagement in social and political issues, which may differ from traditions that emphasize a greater separation of church and state (Wood, 2015, pp. 378–379).

These differences are not absolute. There is much variation within Calvinist denominations, and many points of overlap with other Protestant traditions. in recent years, there has been increased dialogue and cooperation between different Protestant groups, leading to a greater appreciation of our shared heritage in Christ.

What is the historical origin and spread of Calvinist denominations?

The story of Calvinist denominations is a testament to how God works through history to shape His church. The origins of Calvinism can be traced back to the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century, particularly to the work of the French theologian John Calvin in Geneva, Switzerland.

Calvin, born in 1509, was part of the second generation of Protestant reformers. Building on the work of Martin Luther, he developed a systematic theology that emphasized God’s sovereignty and the authority of Scripture. His influential work, “Institutes of the Christian Religion,” first published in 1536, became a foundational text for Reformed theology (Batlajery, 2017, p. 127).

From Geneva, Calvin’s ideas spread rapidly across Europe. In Scotland, John Knox, who had studied under Calvin, established the Presbyterian Church, which became the national church of Scotland. In the Netherlands, Calvinism took root and led to the formation of the Dutch Reformed Church. In Hungary and parts of Central Europe, Reformed churches also emerged (SZAMBOROVSZKY-NAGY, 2022, pp. 77–100).

In England, Calvinist ideas influenced the development of Puritanism within the Church of England. Some Puritans, seeking to “purify” the church of what they saw as unbiblical practices, eventually formed separate Congregationalist churches. Others remained within the Anglican Church, contributing to its Reformed or “Low Church” tradition (Lewis, 2023, pp. 338–364).

The spread of Calvinism was not limited to Europe. Through colonization and missionary efforts, Calvinist denominations spread to North America, Africa, and Asia. In North America, Presbyterians, Congregationalists, and Reformed Baptists established churches that played major roles in the religious and cultural life of the colonies and later the United States (Bulthuis, 2019, pp. 255–290).

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Calvinist denominations continued to spread globally through missionary efforts. For example, in Indonesia, Dutch missionaries established Reformed churches that continue to thrive today (Batlajery, 2017, p. 127).

The spread of Calvinism was not always peaceful or without controversy. In some places, tensions arose between Calvinists and other Christian groups, and at times, the relationship between Calvinist churches and political authorities was complex.

The 20th century saw both challenges and renewals within Calvinist denominations. Some churches faced declining membership in secularizing Western societies, while others experienced growth, particularly in the Global South. There has also been a resurgence of interest in Calvinist theology among some evangelical Christians, leading to what some have called “New Calvinism” (Wood, 2015, pp. 378–379).

Today, Calvinist denominations can be found on every continent, reflecting the global nature of the Christian faith. While they maintain their distinctive theological emphases, many Calvinist churches are also engaged in ecumenical dialogue with other Christian traditions, seeking unity in Christ while respecting theological differences (Gaga et al., 2024).

How do Calvinist beliefs shape worship practices and church governance?

Calvinist beliefs have profoundly influenced both worship practices and church governance in denominations that adhere to this theological tradition. These influences reflect the core Calvinist emphases on God’s sovereignty, the authority of Scripture, and the priesthood of all believers.

In terms of worship, Calvinist churches have historically emphasized simplicity and focus on the Word of God. This stems from Calvin’s belief that worship should be directed by Scripture and free from human inventions. As a result, many Calvinist churches prioritize the preaching of the Word as the centerpiece of the worship service (Kuryliak & Polumysna, 2021). Sermons in Calvinist traditions often take the form of expository preaching, systematically working through books of the Bible to explain and apply the text.

Music in Calvinist worship has traditionally emphasized congregational singing, particularly of psalms and hymns. This practice, known as psalmody, was seen as a way to sing God’s own words back to Him. While many Calvinist churches today incorporate a wider range of musical styles, there is often still an emphasis on theologically rich lyrics and congregational participation (Thomas, 2022).

The sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper are viewed in Calvinist traditions as signs and seals of God’s covenant promises. While practices vary, there is often an emphasis on the symbolic nature of these sacraments and their role in strengthening the faith of believers.

Regarding church governance, many Calvinist denominations follow a Presbyterian system, which is rooted in Calvin’s understanding of biblical church leadership. This system typically involves rule by elders (presbyters), who are elected by the congregation. Churches are often organized into broader assemblies such as presbyteries, synods, and general assemblies, reflecting a connectional understanding of the church (Smidt et al., 2003, pp. 515–532).

This system of governance is seen as a middle way between Episcopal systems (with bishops) and congregational systems (where each church is autonomous). It aims to balance local church autonomy with broader accountability and unity. Importantly, this system reflects the Calvinist emphasis on the priesthood of all believers, as both clergy and lay elders participate in church governance.

Calvinist beliefs also shape the understanding of church discipline. Many Calvinist churches view discipline as an important aspect of pastoral care and maintaining the purity of the church. This can involve processes for addressing sin within the congregation and, in some cases, excommunication for unrepentant members.

The Calvinist emphasis on God’s sovereignty extends to all areas of life, leading many Calvinist churches to emphasize the integration of faith with all aspects of life and culture. This can result in a strong emphasis on Christian education, social engagement, and the application of biblical principles to all areas of life (Wood, 2015, pp. 378–379).

While these are general characteristics, there is major diversity among Calvinist churches in their specific practices. Many contemporary Calvinist churches have adapted their worship styles and governance structures to their particular contexts while maintaining their core theological convictions.

What are some common misconceptions about Calvinist denominations?

One prevalent misconception is that Calvinists believe in a harsh, unloving God who arbitrarily chooses some for salvation and others for damnation. This caricature fails to capture the nuanced understanding of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility that lies at the heart of Reformed theology. In truth, Calvinists affirm God’s love for all humanity while also emphasizing His ultimate authority over salvation(Frisch, 2002, pp. 82–106).

Another misunderstanding is that Calvinism leads to fatalism or passivity in the Christian life. Some assume that if everything is predestined, there is no point in evangelism or personal spiritual growth. But this view overlooks the Calvinist emphasis on the means of grace and the believer’s responsibility to actively pursue holiness(Cefalu, 2003, pp. 71–86). Calvinists generally believe that God’s sovereign plan includes human actions and decisions.

There is also a misconception that Calvinist churches are overly rigid, cold, or intellectually elitist. While it’s true that Reformed theology places a high value on doctrinal precision, many Calvinist communities are deeply committed to warm fellowship, emotional engagement in worship, and practical application of faith(Coffey, 2020). The stereotype of Calvinists as solely focused on abstract theology fails to recognize the rich devotional and practical traditions within Reformed Christianity.

Some people mistakenly believe that Calvinism is inherently opposed to social justice or caring for the poor. This misconception may stem from a misunderstanding of the Calvinist view of work and prosperity. In reality, many Calvinist thinkers and churches have been at the forefront of social reform movements, seeing their efforts as an outworking of God’s sovereignty over all areas of life(Martin, 2012, pp. 51–64).

Another common misunderstanding is that Calvinism is synonymous with the “prosperity gospel” or the idea that material wealth is a sign of God’s favor. While some have drawn connections between Calvinist ideas and capitalist economics, mainstream Calvinist theology rejects the notion that worldly success is a reliable indicator of one’s spiritual state(Zafirovski, 2018, pp. 565–602, 2018, pp. 565–602).

Lastly, there is sometimes a misconception that Calvinism is a monolithic system with no room for diversity or debate. In reality, there is considerable variety within Calvinist denominations on issues such as church governance, the sacraments, and the application of Reformed principles to contemporary issues(Coffey, 2020).

As we reflect on these misconceptions, let us remember the words of St. Paul: “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12). Our understanding of God and His ways is always partial and imperfect. Let us approach our Calvinist brothers and sisters with humility, seeking to understand their beliefs more fully and to recognize the common ground we share in Christ.

May we all strive for unity in the essentials, liberty in the non-essentials, and charity in all things. Let us pray for the grace to see beyond stereotypes and misconceptions, that we might truly love and understand one another as fellow pilgrims on the journey of faith.

How do Calvinist churches approach evangelism and missions?

The approach to evangelism and missions in Calvinist churches is rooted in a powerful understanding of God’s sovereignty and the call to participate in His redemptive work in the world. Let us explore this approach with open hearts, recognizing the sincere desire of our Calvinist brethren to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.

At the core of Calvinist evangelism is the belief in God’s election – that God chooses those who will come to faith. But this doctrine does not lead to passivity in evangelism, as some might assume. Rather, it often fuels a passionate commitment to sharing the Gospel, believing that God uses human instruments to accomplish His purposes(Hermanto et al., 2022).

Calvinist churches typically emphasize the proclamation of the Word as the primary means of evangelism. They believe that faith comes through hearing the message of Christ (Romans 10:17), and therefore place great importance on clear, biblical preaching both within the church and in missionary contexts(Budiatmaja & Rumpia, 2024). This focus on the Word is not merely intellectual but is seen as the means by which the Holy Spirit works to bring about conversion.

In their missionary efforts, Calvinist denominations often adopt a holistic approach. While the primary goal is spiritual conversion, there is also a strong emphasis on meeting physical and social needs. This comprehensive ministry reflects the belief that God’s sovereignty extends over all aspects of life(Hermanto et al., 2022). Many Calvinist missionaries engage in education, healthcare, and community development alongside their evangelistic work.

Calvinist approaches to evangelism and missions are often characterized by a strong sense of duty and perseverance. Believing that God has commanded them to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20), Calvinists view evangelism not as an option but as an obligation for all believers. This sense of duty is coupled with the assurance that God will ultimately bring His elect to faith, which can provide encouragement in the face of apparent lack of success(Coetzee et al., 2023).

Interestingly, the Calvinist emphasis on God’s sovereignty in salvation can lead to a certain freedom in evangelism. Since the results are ultimately in God’s hands, there may be less pressure to use manipulative techniques or to measure success solely by numbers of converts. Instead, the focus is on faithful proclamation of the Gospel, trusting God for the outcome(Coetzee et al., 2023).

In recent years, some Calvinist churches have been at the forefront of discussions about contextualizing the Gospel message for different cultures. While maintaining a commitment to the core truths of the faith, there is a recognition of the need to communicate the Gospel in ways that are meaningful and relevant to diverse audiences(Soegianto & Lolong, 2023).

Within Calvinist circles, there is ongoing debate about the relationship between evangelism and social action. While some emphasize the primacy of verbal proclamation, others argue for a more integrated approach that sees social justice as an integral part of the church’s mission(White & Pondani, 2022).

Calvinist churches have also been influential in developing strategies for church planting and leadership development. The concept of “church franchising” has emerged in some Neo-Calvinist circles as a way to rapidly establish new congregations while maintaining doctrinal consistency(White & Pondani, 2022).

What role does predestination play in Calvinist theology and practice?

The doctrine of predestination is a powerful and often misunderstood aspect of Calvinist theology. It touches on the very nature of God’s sovereignty and human free will, inviting us to contemplate the mysteries of divine grace. Let us approach this topic with humility, recognizing that we see through a glass darkly when it comes to the deepest workings of God’s plan.

In Calvinist theology, predestination refers to God’s eternal decree, by which He determines all that comes to pass, including the ultimate destiny of every person. This doctrine is rooted in passages such as Ephesians 1:4-5: “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.”

Calvinists generally affirm a “double predestination,” meaning that God actively chooses some for salvation (the elect) and passes over others, leaving them in their sins (the reprobate)(Cefalu, 2003, pp. 71–86). This view is not held out of a belief in a capricious or unloving God, but rather from a conviction that all are sinful and deserving of judgment, and that God’s choice to save any is an act of unmerited grace.

In practice, the doctrine of predestination often serves to emphasize the sovereignty and glory of God. It reminds believers that their salvation is entirely a work of divine grace, not based on any merit or foreseen faith of their own. This can lead to a deep sense of humility and gratitude among Calvinist believers(Walsh, 2022, pp. 753–779).

Contrary to what some might assume, the belief in predestination does not typically lead to fatalism or inaction in Calvinist churches. Rather, it often fuels a passionate commitment to evangelism and missions. Calvinists believe that God uses human instruments to accomplish His purposes, and therefore they see their efforts in sharing the Gospel as part of God’s ordained means of bringing the elect to faith(Coetzee et al., 2023).

The doctrine of predestination also plays a major role in Calvinist pastoral care and spiritual formation. It can provide comfort to believers struggling with doubt, assuring them that their salvation rests not on their own efforts but on God’s unchanging decree. At the same time, it calls believers to examine their lives for evidence of God’s saving work, encouraging them to “make their calling and election sure” (2 Peter 1:10)(Cefalu, 2003, pp. 71–86).

But the doctrine of predestination has been a source of major debate and division, both within Calvinist circles and in broader Christian discourse. Some Calvinists hold to a “softer” view of predestination, emphasizing God’s foreknowledge rather than His active determination of all events. Others wrestle with how to reconcile this doctrine with the biblical calls to repentance and faith that seem to imply human responsibility(Coffey, 2020).

In recent years, there has been renewed interest in exploring the pastoral and practical implications of predestination. Some Calvinist thinkers have sought to emphasize the assurance and comfort that this doctrine can bring, while others have grappled with how to present it in a way that doesn’t lead to despair or presumption(Walsh, 2022, pp. 753–779).

How do Calvinist denominations interpret and apply Scripture?

The approach to Scripture in Calvinist denominations is characterized by a deep reverence for the Bible as the inspired Word of God and the ultimate authority for faith and practice. Let us explore this approach with open hearts, seeking to understand and appreciate the sincere devotion of our Calvinist brethren to God’s Word.

At the core of Calvinist biblical interpretation is the principle of sola Scriptura – Scripture alone. This means that the Bible is viewed as the final authority in matters of doctrine and Christian living, above church tradition, human reason, or personal experience. Calvinists generally hold to a high view of biblical inspiration, believing that the Scriptures are God-breathed and inerrant in their original manuscripts(Coffey, 2020).

Calvinist denominations typically emphasize careful, systematic study of the Bible. They often employ a grammatical-historical method of interpretation, seeking to understand the original meaning of the text in its historical and literary context. This approach is combined with a belief in the unity of Scripture, leading to the practice of interpreting Scripture with Scripture – using clearer passages to shed light on more difficult ones(Coffey, 2020).

One distinctive aspect of Calvinist biblical interpretation is the emphasis on seeing Christ and the gospel throughout all of Scripture. This “Christocentric” hermeneutic sees the entire Bible, including the Old Testament, as pointing to Jesus Christ and God’s plan of redemption. This approach is based on Jesus’ own words in Luke 24:27: “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.”

Calvinist churches often place a strong emphasis on expository preaching, where sermons systematically work through books of the Bible, explaining and applying the text. This reflects a belief that the Word of God itself, when faithfully proclaimed, is the primary means by which God works in the lives of His people(Budiatmaja & Rumpia, 2024).

In applying Scripture, Calvinist denominations tend to emphasize the sovereignty of God and the call to personal and societal transformation. They see the Bible as providing guidance not just for individual spirituality, but for all areas of life, including family, work, and civic engagement. This “world and life view” approach seeks to apply biblical principles to every aspect of culture and society(Martin, 2012, pp. 51–64).

Calvinist interpretations of Scripture often focus on themes such as God’s sovereignty, human depravity, unconditional election, and the perseverance of the saints. These doctrines, sometimes summarized as the “Five Points of Calvinism,” are seen as flowing from a comprehensive reading of Scripture rather than isolated proof-texts(Cefalu, 2003, pp. 71–86).

Within Calvinist circles, there is ongoing debate about how to interpret and apply certain biblical passages, particularly those relating to predestination, free will, and the extent of the atonement. These discussions reflect a commitment to wrestling with the full counsel of God’s Word, even when it presents challenges to human understanding(Coffey, 2020).

In recent years, some Calvinist scholars and pastors have been at the forefront of discussions about biblical interpretation in light of contemporary issues. This has included grappling with questions of gender roles, social justice, and the relationship between church and state, always seeking to ground their responses in careful exegesis of Scripture(Martin, 2012, pp. 51–64).

What are some contemporary debates or issues within Calvinist circles?

Like all Christian traditions, Calvinist circles are not immune to debates and discussions as they seek to apply their theological heritage to contemporary issues. These conversations reflect a living faith that engages with the challenges of our time. Let us examine some of these debates with an open mind and a heart of charity, recognizing that even in disagreement, our Calvinist brethren are striving to be faithful to God’s Word.

One major area of discussion within Calvinist circles is the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, particularly in the context of evangelism and missions. While Calvinists affirm God’s sovereign election, there is ongoing debate about how this doctrine should shape evangelistic practices. Some emphasize a more direct proclamation of the Gospel, while others argue for a more holistic approach that includes social action and cultural engagement(Coetzee et al., 2023; White & Pondani, 2022).

Another contemporary issue is the role of the church in addressing social justice concerns. Some Calvinist thinkers, drawing on the tradition’s emphasis on God’s sovereignty over all areas of life, argue for active Christian involvement in social and political reform. Others, concerned about the potential for losing focus on the Gospel, caution against too much emphasis on social issues. This debate often intersects with discussions about the proper understanding of the “cultural mandate” and the nature of the kingdom of God(Martin, 2012, pp. 51–64).

The interpretation and application of biblical teachings on gender roles has been a source of major debate within Calvinist circles. While many Calvinist denominations hold to complementarian views (believing in distinct roles for men and women in church and family), there is increasing discussion about how these principles should be applied in contemporary contexts. Some are revisiting traditional interpretations and exploring more egalitarian approaches(Coffey, 2020).

The relationship between church and state is another area of ongoing discussion. Historically, some Calvinist traditions have advocated for a close relationship between church and civil government, while others have emphasized a clearer separation. In today’s pluralistic societies, Calvinists are grappling with questions of religious liberty, the role of Christian values in public policy, and more.

What churches follow the Calvinism doctrines?

Several Protestant churches follow the doctrines of Calvinism. These include the Presbyterian Church, the Reformed Church, the United Church of Christ, and some Baptist churches.

The Presbyterian Church is perhaps the most well-known Calvinist denomination. It was founded by John Knox, a student of John Calvin, in the 16th Century in Scotland. Presbyterians emphasize the sovereignty of God, the authority of the Scriptures, and the necessity of grace through faith in Christ Jesus.

The Reformed Church is another denomination that follows Calvinist theology. It originated in the Netherlands in the 16th Century and emphasizes the doctrines of grace, the covenant, and the kingdom of God.‍

What are the Major Calvinist Churches?

The major Calvinist churches include the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Reformed Church in America, the Christian Reformed Church, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, and the United Reformed Churches in North America.

1. Presbyterian Church: This church has a significant Presbyterian influence, and its doctrine is grounded in Calvinist theology.
2. Reformed Church in America: This body of believers also adheres to the Calvinist doctrines, emphasizing God’s sovereignty and predestination.
3. Reformed Baptist Churches: These Calvinist churches follow Baptist traditions while adhering to Calvinist teachings.

Each of these denominations holds to the Five Points of Calvinism, though they may differ in their emphasis and interpretation of other doctrines. For example, the Presbyterian Church (USA) tends to be more liberal in its theology and social stances, while the Orthodox Presbyterian Church is more conservative.

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