Reformed Doctrine of Salvation

Ephesians 1:3-11 Pre-membership Class

Pastor Albert N. Martin expounds on the Reformed doctrine of salvation, historically known as Calvinism, by tracing its five points through the Canons of the Synod of Dort and the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith. He primarily draws from Ephesians 1, Romans 8-9, and Philippians 1 to demonstrate that God sovereignly plans salvation through election, Christ definitively accomplishes it through a successful atonement, God irresistibly applies it in conversion, and He preserves believers to the end. The sermon emphasizes God's glory in salvation, calling believers to humility, praise, and encouragement in His unfailing love, while also affirming the free and sincere offer of the gospel to all sinners.

2 illustrations in this sermon

Introduction to Calvinism and the Synod of Dort

lightbulb example

Christian Reformed Church Psalter Hymnal

In this part of the sermon: Martin introduces Calvinism as the church's confessional commitment, explaining its historical origin in the Canons of the Synod of Dort (1619) as a response to Arminianism, and…

Martin uses the Psalter Hymnal of the Christian Reformed Church as an example of a denomination committed to Calvinism, grounding the discussion in a tangible reference.

Now I brought this with me to the pulpit this morning, so I wouldn't forget it and then manage to almost lose it in the pulpit. This is the Psalter. Hymnal of the Christian Reformed Church, which stands committed to the doctrinal standard of Calvinism. Now I would like to just say some things about Calvinism, because we are a Calvinistic church.

2:29 - 3:06 Read in full sermon

auto_stories story

Arminian vs. Armenian Story

Martin recounts a personal anecdote from 15 years prior where a woman asked if he was an 'Arminian' (referring to Armenia), which he clarifies by stating he is a 'Calvinist,' illustrating the difference between the theological term and the nationality.

The story goes back about 15 years, while I was in the academy. And while I was in the academy, I was working in the summer with a mason, who will remain nameless, though if you look at the red face in the congregation, you'll know who he is. We were...

5:28 - 5:44 Read in full sermon

headphones Listen to full sermon