Calvinism and Catholicism are two distinct branches of Christianity that have significant theological differences. While both share a common belief in God and the teachings of Jesus Christ, their interpretations and practices diverge in key areas. Understanding these differences is crucial for a comprehensive comparison between Calvinism and Catholicism.
Key Takeaways:
- Calvinism emphasizes justification by faith alone, while Catholicism believes in justification by faith and good works.
- Calvinists believe in predestination without considering merits, while Catholics believe predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits.
- Catholicism claims apostolic succession and the status of the true church, whereas Calvinists reject the concept of apostolic succession and deny the existence of a single true church.
- The Roman Catholic Church teaches the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils, while Calvinists refute this claim.
- Catholics regard church tradition as equally authoritative with the Bible, while Calvinists uphold the supreme authority of the Bible alone.
These are just a few of the theological differences that distinguish Calvinism from Catholicism. By exploring these disparities, we can gain a deeper understanding of the unique perspectives and beliefs within each branch of Christianity.
Beliefs of Calvinism and Catholicism
Understanding the beliefs of Calvinism and Catholicism is essential to grasp the differences between the two. In terms of faith, works, and justification, Calvinism teaches that we are justified by faith alone apart from works, while Catholicism teaches that we are justified by faith and the good works that flow from that faith. Calvinists believe in predestination without consideration of merits, while Catholics believe predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits.
The Roman Catholic Church claims to be the only true church with apostolic succession, while Calvinists believe there is no apostolic succession and no single true church. The Roman Catholic Church teaches the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils, while Calvinists deny this claim. Catholicism regards church tradition as equally authoritative with the Bible, whereas Calvinists believe in the supreme authority of the Bible alone. The Roman Catholic Church claims to have the final say in interpreting Scripture, while Calvinists believe that ultimate authority belongs to God and that the Roman Catholic Church has often misinterpreted Scripture.
Lastly, the Roman Catholic Church teaches that the fall did not remove man’s ability to respond in faith, while Calvinists believe the fall removed this ability and that salvation is solely dependent on God’s renewal of the heart. These differing beliefs have shaped the theology and practices of Calvinism and Catholicism throughout history, leading to distinct interpretations of Christianity and influencing the lives of individuals and faith communities.
Justification and Faith vs Works
The contrasting views on justification and the relationship between faith and works are fundamental differences between Calvinism and Catholicism. Calvinism teaches that we are justified by faith alone apart from works, emphasizing that salvation is a result of God’s grace and not our own efforts. This belief is rooted in the teachings of John Calvin, who emphasized the sovereignty of God in the process of salvation. Calvinists believe that good works are a natural outpouring of true faith, but they do not contribute to our justification before God.
On the other hand, Catholicism teaches that we are justified by faith and the good works that flow from that faith. The Catholic Church places an emphasis on the cooperation between God’s grace and human effort in the process of salvation. Catholics believe that faith and works are intertwined, and that good works are necessary for final salvation.
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “justification is not only the remission of sins, but also the sanctification and renewal of the interior man” (CCC 1989). This understanding emphasizes the transformative power of faith that leads to a life of holiness and good works. Catholics believe that by participating in the sacraments and living a life of virtue, they cooperate with God’s grace and grow in holiness.
| Calvinism | Catholicism |
|---|---|
| Justified by faith alone apart from works | Justified by faith and good works |
| Good works are a result of faith but do not contribute to justification | Good works are necessary for final salvation |
| Emphasizes God’s sovereignty in the process of salvation | Emphasizes the cooperation between God’s grace and human effort |
While this difference in belief may seem nuanced, it has important implications for the understanding of salvation and the Christian life. Calvinists emphasize the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice and the assurance of salvation through faith alone, while Catholics emphasize the necessity of good works as evidence of true faith and the ongoing process of sanctification.
It is important to note that this difference in belief does not diminish the shared core belief in the saving work of Jesus Christ. Both Calvinists and Catholics affirm the centrality of Christ’s death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins and the reconciliation of humanity with God. The differing perspectives on justification and the role of faith and works stem from different theological frameworks and interpretations of Scripture.
Ultimately, the contrasting views on justification and faith vs works reflect the rich diversity within Christianity. The ongoing dialogue and mutual respect between these theological traditions contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities of salvation and the Christian life.
In the words of John Calvin:
“Good works, then, are only the fruits and evidences of faith; they have no power of justifying.”
The concept of predestination and its relationship to merits is a central point of disagreement between Calvinism and Catholicism. Calvinists believe in predestination without consideration of merits, suggesting that God has already determined who will be saved and who will be damned. This belief is founded on the idea that salvation is solely dependent on God’s mercy and grace, and human merits play no role in the process. According to Calvinism, humanity is inherently sinful and incapable of earning salvation through good works.
On the other hand, Catholicism teaches that predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits. Catholics believe that God’s grace is freely given, but humans must cooperate with that grace through good works in order to be justified. In this view, salvation is seen as a joint effort between God and humanity. Catholics believe that through the sacraments, prayer, and acts of charity, individuals can merit God’s favor and ultimately be saved.
This fundamental difference in understanding predestination and merits has significant implications for how Calvinists and Catholics approach their faith. Calvinism emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the absolute dependence of humanity on divine grace. It emphasizes the humility and gratitude of the believer, who recognizes their complete inability to earn salvation. The emphasis is placed on the transformative work of God in the lives of believers.
Catholicism, on the other hand, emphasizes the responsibility of the individual to cooperate with God’s grace and actively participate in their salvation. Good works are seen as an outpouring of love for God and one’s neighbor, and they play a crucial role in the process of justification. The emphasis is placed on the ongoing sanctification of the believer, as they strive to grow in holiness and fulfill God’s commands.
To summarize, Calvinism teaches predestination without consideration of merits, while Catholicism teaches that predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits. These contrasting views on predestination highlight the different theological emphases of Calvinism and Catholicism when it comes to the role of God’s grace and human cooperation in salvation.
| Calvinism | Catholicism |
|---|---|
| Predestination without consideration of merits | Predestination somewhat conditioned upon merits |
| Salvation through grace alone | Salvation through grace and good works |
| Emphasis on humility and gratitude | Emphasis on active cooperation with grace |
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
Calvinists and Catholics hold contrasting beliefs regarding apostolic succession and the claim to be the true church. The Roman Catholic Church asserts that it is the only true church with a direct lineage tracing back to the apostles. This concept of apostolic succession affirms that the authority and teachings of the church are passed down through the generations, safeguarded by the bishops who can trace their ordination back to the apostles themselves. It is believed that this unbroken chain of succession ensures the preservation of the true teachings of Christ.
On the other hand, Calvinists reject the idea of apostolic succession as it is understood in Catholicism. They do not believe in a single true church with a hierarchal structure of authority. Instead, Calvinists argue that the true church consists of all believers who have been chosen by God for salvation. They believe that the authority of the church lies solely in the Word of God as revealed in the Bible.
According to Calvinist theology, the church is not defined by a specific institution or succession of leaders, but rather by the presence of faithful believers who have been justified by faith alone. For Calvinists, the emphasis is on personal faith and a direct relationship with God, rather than hierarchical authority. This difference in perspective has led to significant theological divisions between Calvinism and Catholicism throughout history.
| Beliefs | Calvinism | Catholicism |
|---|---|---|
| Justification and Faith vs Works | Justified by faith alone apart from works | Justified by faith and good works |
| Predestination and Merits | Predestination without consideration of merits | Predestination conditioned upon merits |
| Infallibility of Pope and Ecumenical Councils | Denies the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils | Claims the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils |
| Church Tradition vs Bible Alone | Supreme authority of the Bible alone | Church tradition as equally authoritative with the Bible |
| Interpretation of Scripture | Ultimate authority belongs to God, disagreement with Roman Catholic Church’s interpretation | Roman Catholic Church claims to have the final say in interpreting Scripture |
| Fall and Human Ability | Believes the fall removed man’s ability to respond in faith | Believes the fall did not remove man’s ability to respond in faith |
“The Roman Catholic Church asserts its claim to be the true church based on apostolic succession, while Calvinists believe the true church consists of all believers chosen by God for salvation.”
These divergent beliefs regarding apostolic succession and the true church reflect the broader theological differences between Calvinism and Catholicism. While both traditions have important contributions to Christian theology, they remain distinct in their understanding of authority, salvation, and the nature of the church.
Infallibility of Pope and Ecumenical Councils
The role of the pope and the infallibility of his teachings, as well as the authority of ecumenical councils, are areas of disagreement between Calvinism and Catholicism. In the Roman Catholic Church, the pope is seen as the successor of St. Peter and holds the highest authority in matters of faith and morals. The doctrine of papal infallibility asserts that when the pope speaks ex cathedra, or from the seat of Peter, on matters of faith and morals, his teachings are considered to be without error and binding on all believers.
Calvinists, on the other hand, reject the idea of papal infallibility and do not recognize the authority of the pope. They believe that ultimate authority belongs to God alone and that the Bible is the only infallible source of divine revelation. They view the pope as a fallible human being and do not attribute any special significance to his pronouncements.
Similarly, there is a divergence in views regarding the authority of ecumenical councils. The Roman Catholic Church holds that ecumenical councils, consisting of bishops from around the world, are guided by the Holy Spirit and carry the same level of authority as the pope. Their decisions and pronouncements are considered binding on all believers. Calvinists, on the other hand, do not recognize the authority of ecumenical councils and place the highest authority solely in the Scriptures.
These differences in beliefs regarding the infallibility of the pope and the authority of ecumenical councils have significant implications for the respective faith communities. In Catholicism, the pope’s teachings are considered infallible, and his authority is seen as central to the unity and guidance of the Church. Ecumenical councils play a crucial role in shaping doctrine and resolving theological disputes.
On the other hand, in Calvinism, the authority resides primarily in the Scriptures, and the interpretation of the Bible is considered the final authority. This reliance on the Bible alone for spiritual guidance and doctrine reflects the emphasis on individual faith and personal relationship with God that is characteristic of Calvinist theology.
In conclusion, Calvinism and Catholicism differ in their views on the infallibility of the pope and the authority of ecumenical councils. While the Roman Catholic Church upholds the pope as infallible and attributes authority to ecumenical councils, Calvinists reject these beliefs, placing the ultimate authority in the Scriptures alone. These differences have profound implications for the theological frameworks and practices of the respective faith communities.
Church Tradition vs Bible Alone
Calvinists and Catholics have differing views on the authority of church tradition compared to the supreme authority of the Bible. In Catholicism, church tradition is regarded as equally authoritative with the Bible. The Roman Catholic Church believes that the deposit of faith, which includes both Scripture and tradition, was entrusted to the apostles and has been passed down through the centuries. They argue that oral tradition is essential for understanding and interpreting the Bible.
On the other hand, Calvinists believe in the supreme authority of the Bible alone. They emphasize the sufficiency of Scripture as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. Calvinists argue that the Bible contains all the necessary teachings for salvation and godly living, and that it is clear and understandable to every believer. They view church tradition as fallible and subject to error, and caution against elevating it to the same level of authority as the Word of God.
These differing views have significant implications for the interpretation and application of biblical teachings. Catholics rely on the magisterium, the teaching authority of the pope and ecumenical councils, to provide authoritative interpretations of Scripture. They believe that the church has the authority and guidance of the Holy Spirit to safeguard the correct understanding of God’s Word.
Calvinists, however, believe that ultimate authority in interpreting Scripture belongs to God alone. They emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating the meaning of the biblical text to individual believers. Calvinists caution against relying solely on human tradition or the interpretations of fallible leaders, emphasizing the need for personal study and prayerful reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Summary
- Calvinists and Catholics have differing views on the authority of church tradition compared to the supreme authority of the Bible.
- Catholics believe that church tradition is equally authoritative with the Bible, while Calvinists emphasize the supreme authority of the Bible alone.
- Catholics rely on the magisterium to provide authoritative interpretations of Scripture, while Calvinists believe in the personal illumination of the Holy Spirit.
Interpretation of Scripture
The interpretation of Scripture and the authority to do so are areas of contention between Calvinism and Catholicism. Calvinists believe that ultimate authority in interpreting Scripture lies with God alone, and they often criticize the Roman Catholic Church for what they perceive as misinterpretations. They argue that the Roman Catholic Church has added traditions and teachings that are not supported by Scripture. Calvinists emphasize the importance of studying the Bible directly and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit to discern its true meaning.
On the other hand, the Roman Catholic Church regards itself as the final authority in interpreting Scripture. It believes that the pope, as the successor of Peter, has been given the gift of infallibility in matters of faith and morals. The decisions of ecumenical councils, which consist of bishops from around the world, are also considered authoritative in interpreting Scripture.
“When it comes to interpreting Scripture, Catholics believe in the guidance of the Holy Spirit working through the pope and the teachings of the Church,” says Father Thomas, a Catholic theologian. “We see the Bible as a part of the larger tradition handed down by the apostles.”
This difference in interpretation has led to varying beliefs and practices between Calvinism and Catholicism. While Calvinists prioritize the Bible as the ultimate authority in matters of faith, Catholics emphasize the importance of church tradition alongside Scripture.
A notable historical example of the contrasting interpretations can be seen in the Reformation period. Martin Luther, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation and a prominent Calvinist theologian, challenged the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and its interpretation of Scripture. Luther believed in the priesthood of all believers, advocating for direct access to Scripture and encouraging individuals to read and understand the Bible for themselves.
On the other hand, the Council of Trent, a response to the Protestant Reformation convened by the Roman Catholic Church, reaffirmed the authority of the pope and the ecclesiastical hierarchy in interpreting Scripture. It emphasized the importance of both Scripture and tradition in guiding the faith and practices of Catholics.
These historical events highlight the ongoing debate between Calvinism and Catholicism regarding the interpretation of Scripture and the authority to do so.
| Calvinism | Catholicism |
|---|---|
| Emphasizes the ultimate authority of the Bible Believes in the guidance of the Holy Spirit Critiques the interpretation of Scripture by the Roman Catholic Church |
Views the pope as infallible in interpreting Scripture Considers church tradition alongside Scripture Believes in the hierarchical structure of the Church |
Fall and Human Ability
Calvinism and Catholicism differ in their understanding of the fall and its effect on human ability to respond in faith. Calvinists believe that the fall of humanity, as described in the book of Genesis, resulted in the total depravity of human nature. According to Calvinist theology, this means that every aspect of human beings, including their ability to believe in God and respond in faith, has been corrupted by sin. As a result, Calvinists argue that individuals are entirely dependent on God’s grace for salvation.
On the other hand, Catholicism teaches that while the fall did have an impact on human nature, it did not completely remove man’s ability to respond in faith. Catholics believe that God’s grace, working in conjunction with human free will, enables individuals to cooperate with God’s salvation. In this view, humans have the capacity to accept or reject God’s grace and play an active role in their salvation through acts of faith and obedience.
These contrasting views on the fall and human ability to respond in faith have far-reaching implications for the theological differences between Calvinism and Catholicism. While Calvinists emphasize the sovereignty of God in salvation and highlight the utter dependence of humanity on divine grace, Catholics emphasize the cooperation between God and human beings in the process of salvation.
The table below provides a summary of the key differences between Calvinism and Catholicism regarding the fall and human ability:
| Calvinism | Catholicism |
|---|---|
| Believes in total depravity, where the fall corrupted every aspect of human nature, including the ability to respond in faith | Teaches that the fall had an impact on human nature, but did not completely remove man’s ability to respond in faith |
| Emphasizes the sovereignty of God and the utter dependence of humanity on divine grace for salvation | Highlights the cooperation between God’s grace and human free will in the process of salvation |
| Views salvation as solely dependent on God’s renewal of the heart | Believes in the active participation of individuals through acts of faith and obedience in cooperation with God’s grace |
Historical Impacts of Calvinism and Catholicism
The historical impacts of Calvinism and Catholicism have shaped religious and cultural landscapes in significant ways. Both of these Christian denominations, with their distinct theological beliefs and practices, have left lasting imprints on societies worldwide.
Calvinism emerged as a Protestant movement in the sixteenth century, following the teachings of theologian John Calvin. Its emphasis on predestination and the sovereignty of God appealed to many believers, leading to the spread of these ideas throughout Europe and beyond. The impact of Calvinism can be seen in the formation of Reformed churches and the enduring influence on societies in countries such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Scotland.
Catholicism, on the other hand, traces its roots back to the early Christian Church and claims apostolic succession from the apostle Peter. Throughout history, the Catholic Church has played a central role in politics, art, education, and social welfare. Its influence can be observed through the construction of magnificent cathedrals, the establishment of religious orders, and the patronage of artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Both Calvinism and Catholicism have left an indelible mark on society, shaping religious practices, cultural traditions, and even political systems. The historical impacts of these two faiths serve as a testament to the enduring power and significance of religious beliefs.
Key Points:
- The historical impacts of Calvinism and Catholicism have shaped religious and cultural landscapes.
- Calvinism’s emphasis on predestination and the sovereignty of God spread throughout Europe and beyond, leading to the formation of Reformed churches.
- Catholicism’s apostolic succession and central role in various aspects of society have had a profound influence on art, education, and social welfare.
- The enduring power and significance of religious beliefs can be seen in the lasting legacies of Calvinism and Catholicism.
| Calvinism | Catholicism |
|---|---|
| Emphasis on predestination | Apostolic succession |
| Spread throughout Europe and beyond | Central role in politics, art, education, and social welfare |
| Influence on Reformed churches | Patronage of renowned artists |
Similarities and Dissimilarities between Calvinism and Catholicism
While Calvinism and Catholicism have many differences, there are also areas where they share similarities. Understanding both the dissimilarities and the parallels between these two religious traditions can foster dialogue and deeper understanding among believers. Let’s explore some of the key similarities and dissimilarities.
Similarities
Despite their theological disparities, Calvinism and Catholicism share a common foundation in their belief in the triune nature of God, including the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Both traditions also acknowledge the authority of the Bible, although Catholics give equal weight to church tradition.
Furthermore, both Calvinism and Catholicism emphasize the importance of community and worship. Each tradition has its own distinct liturgical practices and rituals that play a central role in the life of the faithful. Both also recognize the significance of sacraments, although they may differ in the number and nature of these sacred acts.
Dissimilarities
One of the significant dissimilarities between Calvinism and Catholicism lies in their differing perspectives on faith, works, and justification. Calvinism teaches that salvation is solely dependent on faith alone apart from works, while Catholicism teaches that faith and good works are both necessary for salvation.
Another notable difference is their contrasting beliefs on predestination. Calvinists hold firm to the doctrine of predestination without consideration of merits, while Catholics believe that predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits.
Additionally, the two traditions diverge on the topics of apostolic succession and the claim of being the true church. The Roman Catholic Church asserts that it is the only true church with an unbroken apostolic succession, whereas Calvinists reject the concept of apostolic succession and do not believe in a single true church.
The authority and interpretation of Scripture also sets Calvinism and Catholicism apart. While the Roman Catholic Church regards church tradition as equally authoritative with the Bible, Calvinists believe in the supreme authority of the Bible alone. They differ in their views on who has the final say in interpreting Scripture, with Catholics attributing that authority to the pope and Calvinists affirming that ultimate authority belongs to God.
Finally, regarding the fall and human ability, Catholicism teaches that the fall did not remove man’s ability to respond in faith, while Calvinism believes that the fall indeed removed this ability and that salvation is solely dependent on God’s renewal of the heart.
| Similarities between Calvinism and Catholicism | Dissimilarities between Calvinism and Catholicism |
|---|---|
| Belief in the triune nature of God | Differing views on faith, works, and justification |
| Recognition of the authority of the Bible | Contrasting beliefs on predestination |
| Emphasis on community and worship | Differences in views on apostolic succession and true church |
| Acknowledgement of the importance of sacraments | Varied perspectives on the authority and interpretation of Scripture |
Understanding both the similarities and dissimilarities between Calvinism and Catholicism provides valuable insight into these two rich theological traditions. While it is important to recognize and respect their divergent beliefs, it is equally vital to acknowledge the common ground they share. By fostering dialogue and promoting mutual understanding, believers from these traditions can contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious religious landscape.
Implications on Individuals and Faith Communities
The theological disparities between Calvinism and Catholicism have real-world implications for individuals and the communities they belong to. These differences in beliefs can shape one’s understanding of salvation, faith, and the role of the church in one’s spiritual journey. The contrasting views on justification, predestination, the authority of the pope and church tradition, and the interpretation of Scripture have direct consequences on how individuals perceive their relationship with God and how they practice their faith.
For individuals, the theological divide between Calvinism and Catholicism can influence their understanding of salvation. Calvinism emphasizes that salvation is solely dependent on God’s sovereign choice and the renewal of the heart through His grace. This belief can lead to a sense of security and assurance, as individuals trust in God’s divine plan and sovereignty. On the other hand, Catholicism teaches that salvation involves both faith and good works, which can create a sense of responsibility and the need for ongoing effort to maintain a state of grace.
Within faith communities, these theological differences can impact the overall structure and practices of worship. Calvinist communities often prioritize the preaching and teaching of Scripture, emphasizing the supreme authority of the Bible alone. This can lead to a strong emphasis on biblical literacy and the formation of Bible study groups. In contrast, Catholic communities have a rich tradition of liturgical worship, sacraments, and prayers, placing importance on the role of the church and its traditions in guiding the spiritual lives of its members.
Moreover, these theological disparities can influence the relationships between different Christian denominations and the broader ecumenical movement. The divergent views on apostolic succession, the infallibility of the pope, and the interpretation of Scripture can create barriers and tensions between Calvinists and Catholics. However, there have also been efforts towards mutual understanding and dialogue, as both sides seek to find common ground and foster unity within the Christian faith.
In conclusion, the theological differences between Calvinism and Catholicism have significant implications for individuals and the communities they belong to. These disparities impact one’s understanding of salvation, shape the practices of worship, and influence the relationships between different Christian denominations. As individuals navigate their faith journeys and seek to deepen their relationship with God, it is important to recognize and respect the diversity within the Christian tradition while also embracing the common core beliefs that unite believers across denominational lines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the contrasting beliefs and practices of Calvinism and Catholicism highlight the diversity within Christianity and the unique perspectives each tradition offers. Both Calvinism and Catholicism have shaped the course of Christian history and have had profound impacts on individuals and faith communities.
Calvinism emphasizes the doctrine of justification by faith alone, separating it from any dependence on good works. This belief emphasizes the sovereignty of God in salvation and the idea that salvation is ultimately dependent on God’s grace rather than human efforts. On the other hand, Catholicism teaches that faith and good works are both necessary for salvation, emphasizing the importance of cooperating with God’s grace to achieve righteousness.
Another key difference lies in the belief of predestination. Calvinists hold that God has predestined certain individuals for salvation, without consideration of their merits. In contrast, Catholics believe that predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits, and God’s grace is extended to those who cooperate with it through good works.
Additionally, the Roman Catholic Church claims to be the only true church with apostolic succession, tracing its authority back to the apostles. Conversely, Calvinists reject the idea of apostolic succession and believe that there is no single true church, but rather a universal church comprised of believers across denominational lines.
In matters of authority, Catholicism upholds the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils, regarding them as the final authorities in matters of faith and doctrine. In contrast, Calvinists deny this claim, asserting that ultimate authority lies with God and that the Roman Catholic Church has often misinterpreted Scripture.
Lastly, Catholicism places equal authority on church tradition and the Bible, viewing them as complementary sources of divine revelation. Calvinists, on the other hand, believe in the supreme authority of the Bible alone, emphasizing the importance of Scripture as the final arbiter of truth.
The fall and its impact on human ability is another area of disagreement. Catholicism teaches that the fall did not remove man’s ability to respond in faith, while Calvinists believe that the fall has affected human nature to such an extent that man is unable to respond in faith without God’s renewing work in the heart.
Overall, the contrasting beliefs between Calvinism and Catholicism highlight the richness and diversity within Christianity. While these traditions hold different theological perspectives, they both contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Christian thought and practice.
FAQ
Q: What are the key differences between Calvinism and Catholicism?
A: Calvinism and Catholicism differ in their beliefs about justification and works, predestination and merits, apostolic succession and the concept of a true church, the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils, the authority of church tradition versus the Bible alone, the interpretation of Scripture, the impact of the fall on human ability, and more.
Q: How do Calvinism and Catholicism differ in their beliefs about justification?
A: Calvinism teaches that we are justified by faith alone apart from works, while Catholicism teaches that we are justified by faith and the good works that flow from that faith.
Q: What do Calvinism and Catholicism believe about predestination?
A: Calvinists believe in predestination without consideration of merits, while Catholics believe predestination is somewhat conditioned upon merits.
Q: What is the difference in views on apostolic succession and the concept of a true church?
A: The Roman Catholic Church claims to be the only true church with apostolic succession, while Calvinists believe there is no apostolic succession and no single true church.
Q: How do Calvinism and Catholicism differ in their views on the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils?
A: The Roman Catholic Church teaches the infallibility of the pope and ecumenical councils, while Calvinists deny this claim.
Q: What is the difference in beliefs regarding the authority of church tradition and the Bible?
A: Catholicism regards church tradition as equally authoritative with the Bible, whereas Calvinists believe in the supreme authority of the Bible alone.
Q: Who has the final say in interpreting Scripture according to Calvinism and Catholicism?
A: The Roman Catholic Church claims to have the final say in interpreting Scripture, while Calvinists believe that ultimate authority belongs to God and that the Roman Catholic Church has often misinterpreted Scripture.
Q: How do Calvinism and Catholicism differ in their views on the fall and human ability to respond in faith?
A: The Roman Catholic Church teaches that the fall did not remove man’s ability to respond in faith, while Calvinists believe the fall removed this ability and that salvation is solely dependent on God’s renewal of the heart.
