Calvinism (Introduction to John Calvin's Reformed Theology)

This video is an introduction to the teachings of John Calvin, the father of "Reformed" or "Calvinist" theology. Calvinism is a school of systematic theology that emphasizes the sovereignty of God, who through the doctrine of predestination, has ordained an Elect to join Him in the Kingdom of Heaven. In addition to introducing the foundations of Calvinist theology, I outline the "Five Points" of Calvinism (Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints) and talk about Calvinist iconoclasm and clothing.

This video is intended primarily for European History students seeking to understand the basics of Calvinist theology in order to better understand the Protestant Reformation. I am a historian - not a theologian - and I am explaining the basics to students who have a casual scholarly interest in the subject. I am neither trying to prove nor to disprove the validity of Calvinist theology - just to inform people about the basic tenets in as informative and entertaining of a way as possible. It is not my intention to ignite a religious debate, although I understand that this is often a consequence when posting videos about theology.

[radarashwood]

I didn't know that Matt Damon was an amateur historian!

[DPGBehler]

Gets angry at me for not being a Calvinist, as if I had a choice.

[rogeredwards]

How is it that myself, raised by two atheist parents and being an alcoholic, living on the streets for years started to pray one morning and was literally struck sober. A peace that "is" beyond all understanding fell upon me that literally felt like...I can't explain it, and remained for 3 day's, all i could do was sit, and be still, i was bathed in it, and never had the compulsion to drink again...pure grace, i don't care what anyone say's...i know what i know through direct experience, and that "is" truth

[iammrbeat]

I showed this one to my students today. They cracked up about the kid who went crazy and crashed into a telephone pole. This is one of my favorites of yours!

[ConnorCupp]

Don't sell drugs to children, was just about to make this mistake. Thanks so much Tom Richey!

[adv.lucasmonteiro]

I'm from Brazil and I'm not here for learning Calvinism but for learning English. :) (I'm Calvinist here in my city in Rio de Janeiro state).

[palomarobles]

I'm studying for my CSET. These videos are extremely helpful. I wish more history teachers posted videos about history. thanks for taking the time to post!

[DustinBarlowP]

I love your examples. I have been around a lot of people who try to connect with young people, but they are just so awkward and sheltered, that they just came off as extremely cheesy. Like it would physically hurt listening to them try to connect, and you would find yourself messageing your temples, trying to make the migraine stop. You have more humor in you message, and I think that is where the connection is made. Good job man.

[poptarts]

You know a history lesson is gonna be good when at the beginning you have to say "never sell drugs to children"

[jamesadjd]

Tom I showed this to my 4th grade class and my kids ran out screaming. I’m demanding a complete apology.

[jonathankotyk]

Reading all the anti-Calvinism comments is funny, I doubt even one of them has read Institutes of the Christian Religion or any of Calvin's writings.

[PoeticGuitar]

Calvin did not do away with free will. He holds that humans are free to do as they choose while God is still sovereign over all. It's seemingly contradictory, but Scripture affirms both, and so does Calvin. A simple reading of his section on Providence in his Institutes will clear this up for you. He does NOT eliminate a human's ability to make choices.

[samanthadaly]

Studying for my AP Euro test right now, and my mom walked in and looked at what i was watching and whispered: "Calvinists are nutty."

[gregorydesousa]

God can and will do all that pleases Him. For his glory and for our joy.

[derekroberts]

“Nothing “just business”.... I know God’s not a mob boss.

[PierreLaFontaine]

I found this quote, had to reshare it. "I would believe in the doctrine of election, but God did not predestine me to believe in predestination."

[monicad]

I loved the video!!! Very good energy, funny and I loved that you explained everything that was needed to get a better understanding of the next Job!

[Giga_Pudding]

God: "All your souls are belong to me."

[atheistsince]

Thanks so much I study philosophy and religion and never knew that aspect about Free Will brilliant synopsis about capturing the iconoclasm of this highly unique group .

[bluehourrr]

I can't believe I only found your videos this late in the school year!! thank you for uploading them! they're very informative and I love the way you explain everything. :)