I generally am not impressed by the material I find on the Internet in regards to what are called "Calvinism," and "Arminianism." For those not familiar with these terms, I'll explain in a second. The problem is, to few people actually show knowledge of what either teach, and too many ignorantly rant against strawmen characterizations of either... especially Arminianism. Some suppose it is just a new variation on Pelagianism (again, I explain these terms below); others think it is an unholy alliance between "free will" protestants and the Roman Catholic Church (which has generally held to the notion of free will). Some extreme Calvinists don't think Arminians even hold to the same Gospel as they do! This is why I decided to publish the material I've written on the topic, so people can understand what Arminianism is, and why I (as well as others who have studied the topic) believe it.
So, to start, let's ground what we are talking about. Here are some concise definitions:
Systematic Theology: a type of theology which attempts to take all theological points from a sacred text (e.g., the Bible), and systematize them into a structured unity.1 Calvinism and Arminianism are the most popular systematic theologies in Protestant theology; other systematics include Lutheranism, Universalism, and Open Theism (though some consider this as a variation of Arminianism).
Calvinism: A systematic theology which, in its most concise terms, holds that God unconditionally elected some people to faith and salvation, leaving the rest to judgement.2
Arminianism: A systematic theology which, in its most concise terms, holds that God draws people, and those who come to faith are predestined to salvation.3
Pelagianism: An early heresy which denied original sin, and taught that a person could come to faith entirely by one's own free will. 4
Semipelagianism: An early theology which accepted original sin, but taught that a person could initiate faith in God first, and God would grant the grace for one do continue on.5
Note, Arminianism is not a formulated version Pelagianism (as some think), as we do not deny original sin; nor is Arminianism a variation of Semipelagianism, as we also hold that God must take the first steps before a person could come to faith. In fact, it is better to understand Arminianism not as the opposite of Calvinism, but as a critique or "reproof" of Calvinism. In fact Arminianism diverged from Reformed theology, so there is quite a bit of agreement between Calvinists and Arminians (which often isn't obvious because of the strong debate on the controversial points).
It is not accurate to say that Arminianism of a "free will" theology. Arminianism, in and of itself, does not specifically teach a specific doctrine on the nature of the will and choice. However, the notion of "free will" as commonly understood is much more accommodated in Arminianism than it is in Calvinism. This is why most Arminians believe in freedom of choice, while many Calvinists don't; though, it is possible to be an Arminian and a determinist. (Such a position is not inherently inconsistent, but IMO has some philosophical problems).
In the following articles, I hope to present a well thought out, Biblically balanced presentation of Arminianism. The key here is to not entrench oneself into an interpretation of a specific set of verses, but to take in cumulatively what Scripture says as a whole. Unfortunately it is infeasible for me to make a presentation that accounts for every passage that could possibly be relevant, but major points from Scripture do stick out. I also present the Articles of Remonstrance and John Wesley's What is an Arminian? for reference.
But, before we go on, I have some recommendations, particularly for newer Christians. Please see the next article, and if you think you are ready to study Arminianism further, then please feel free to read on.
Also, there is a tendency to get particularly zealous over this topic. In fact, it is not uncommon for debates in systematic theology to get overwhelmingly hostile; both sides are guilty. Dear fellow Christians, this is not a salvific issue, so why do we make such a fit? While we may discuss and debate these issues, let's not forget our duty to Christ and to one another. We are to treat each other in love, and argue in gentleness and respect (cf. 1Pet. 3:16).
There is also a sentiment in Christianity that because these issues end up becoming divisive, we should not concern ourselves with theology. This is misguided, in my opinion. We are called to move on from the milk of the gospel to the meat of the harder teachings; to teach good doctrine; and to correct error. Most important of all, theology is a means of worship, and we are called to love God with all of one's mind (Matt. 22:37).
Essays:
Prerequisites for Studying Systematic Theology
Articles of Remonstrance (by the Remonstrants, 1610)
What is an Arminian? (by John Wesley)
Total Depravity-- Apart from God, people cannot please God, come to saving faith, seek or even want to seek Him. This is the point where Calvinists and Arminians have the most agreement, though belief in Freedom of Choice does "flavor" Depravity a bit differently for Arminians.
Conditional Election (part 1)-- God has sovereignly chosen to elect for salvation, those who come to saving faith in Him and Jesus Christ.
Conditional Election (part 2)
Romans 9
Prevenient Grace-- God's grace is necessary not just for a person's salvation, but even for one's faith. In essence, God must take the initiative in the salvation process. However God's salvific grace can be and resisted, and is.
General Atonement-- Jesus Christ, by his sacrifice, obtained forgiveness of sin for all, but only the believers "enjoy" this forgiveness. Where I may differ from some other Arminians is that I hold that Christ suffered for all, such that his blood would cover the sins of anyone who believes. (I see atonement as being universal in purpose, limited in application.)
Conditional Assurance (part 1)-- So long as a Christian stays in faith, one is assured eternal life with God. However, it is possible for a Christian to fall away. I believe that one may only "lose" salvation if one falls away totally, an apostate cannot return to saving faith, and some have, do, and will fall away.
Conditional Assurance (part 2)
Conclusion
Essays supplemental to the Arminianism series:
Freedom Of Choice-- A presentation of a ballanced view of free will.
Regeneration-- A Biblical explanation of regeneration as it relates to faith at conversion and salvation.
The Strawman's Prayer-- A response to a Calvinist's criticism of synergism, from an Arminian perspective.
John 6-- An exegesis on John 6 which focuses on Arminian and Calvinist theology.