A debate between two theological positions has raged. Arminianism, which questioned the doctrines of the Dutch Reformed Church in the late 16th – early 17th centuries, insisted upon fallen man’s ability to choose God apart from the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. The Dutch Reformed Church, which embraced the theology of Calvinism, responded by re-affirming that man is in such bondage to sin that apart from the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit he would never choose God. The Biblical passage of John 6:44 was at the heart of this issue, especially the nature of God’s drawing. Arminians believe that God’s drawing of people to Himself is universal, yet is not effectual. That is to say, even though God draws all people, they do not necessarily come. God’s drawing is seen as an invitation that can be accepted or refused independently of God. Calvinists believe that God draws only the elect, it is part of the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, and it is effectual. That is to say, God’s drawing is irresistible so that everyone who is drawn necessarily comes. This paper is a logical analysis of John 6:44 followed by the implications for both the traditional Arminian and Calvinist positions. It is divided into four sections. Section one will deal with the Greek text and translation; section two will be a logical analysis of the text – ending with John 6:44 expressed in formal terms; section three will explore the consequences of the logical analysis regarding Arminianism and Calvinism; and section four will be the conclusion. The conclusion drawn is that under Arminian assumptions one is left with universalism; whereas, under Calvinist assumptions, Calvinism is found to be consistent.

Found in Reformation Theology.

Download the paper here by Christian Logic’s Brian Bosse.