A picture is worth a thousand words, or so they say. Instead of writing a 2,000 word post on the difference between Arminianism and Calvinism, I have posted two pictures of my cat.
The difference between Arminianism and Calvinism is this: Arminians believe that grace is resistible. Calvinists believe that grace is irresistible.
First, let’s look at the Calvinistic concept of irresistible grace. Those to whom God gives grace will certainly receive it. God’s grace is provided in a way that it is not coercive, because God works in the hearts in minds of the elect in such a way that they freely want to receive what He provides. Below my cat illustrates what this looks like:
As you can see, the cat’s heart and mind have irresistibly been changed in such a way that she joyously receives the mandatory love that I give her. I am feeling much glory because of our reciprocal relationship.
Next, kitty will illustrate the Arminian concept of grace. Arminians believe that grace is resistible. God gives grace to everyone, and by the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, each person has a decision as to whether or not to accept God’s offer. In this system I do not need to hold the cat by the neck in order to show what grace is like. Again kitty demonstrates.
Well bummer, that didn’t work as planned. Apparently, a kitty that is a recipient of irresistible grace is no longer in the mood to receive a more resistible form of grace. Interesting.
Perhaps this behavior can be briefly summarized in Latin: felius catus no grabus.
Very funny. Of course Kitty has no problem sitting in my lap to be petted, because I allow her to come when she is ready. :-) Your loving wife.
You’re too much! :D
I thought of you while making this one, mister cat lover. ;)
Most excellent illustration :-)
Thanks Dale. :)
Ha ha.. It looks in the 1st photo as if you were strangling rather than petting the cat.
It’s all a matter of perspective. ;)
So much of what is problematic about Calvinism is summed up in your phrase “I am feeling much glory because of our reciprocal relationship” when the Cat obviously has no choice. Funny and insightful!
Thanks LCK. :)
Guess this also illustrates (in the second pic) that resistible grace saves no one.
Touche! She does visit my wife’s lap often. :)
Lord bless ya, bro.
Excellent! I thought about doing the same thing with my dog, only using three types of dog food and seeing which type she likes best…to prove that she gets to make a choice!