No, Calvinists do not believe you can lose your salvation.
In Calvinist theology, the concept of salvation is understood to be entirely dependent on God's sovereign will and choice, rather than any human action or response. According to this view, individuals are divinely chosen and predetermined for salvation before the creation of the world. Therefore, if God has supernaturally chosen someone for salvation, it logically follows within Calvinist doctrine that this salvation is eternally secure and cannot be lost.
The Perseverance of the Saints
This belief is formally encapsulated in the doctrine known as the "Perseverance of the Saints," often summarized as the final 'P' in the TULIP acronym, which outlines the five points of Calvinism.
What Does "Perseverance of the Saints" Mean?
- Divine Preservation: It asserts that those whom God has chosen and effectually called into salvation will undoubtedly continue in faith and ultimately reach eternal life. This perseverance is not due to the believer's own strength or faithfulness but is entirely God's work of preservation.
- Eternal Security: Once a person is truly regenerate and saved by God's grace, their salvation is eternally secure. They cannot "fall away" or lose their standing with God, because their salvation is founded on God's unchanging decree and power, not their mutable human will or actions.
- Evidence of True Faith: While believers may stumble or struggle with sin, their eventual return to repentance and continuation in faith is seen as evidence of God's preserving grace in their lives, demonstrating that they are indeed among the elect.
TULIP: The Five Points of Calvinism
The doctrine of the Perseverance of the Saints fits within the broader framework of Calvinism, which is often summarized by the acronym TULIP:
| Acronym | Doctrine | Brief Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| T | Total Depravity | Humanity is entirely corrupted by sin and incapable of choosing God on its own. |
| U | Unconditional Election | God chooses individuals for salvation purely by His sovereign will, not based on foreseen merit or faith. |
| L | Limited Atonement | Christ's atoning work on the cross was specifically intended for and effective in saving only the elect. |
| I | Irresistible Grace | The Holy Spirit's call to the elect cannot be resisted; it infallibly brings about salvation. |
| P | Perseverance of the Saints | Those who are truly regenerated and chosen by God will remain in faith and cannot lose their salvation. |
For Calvinists, the unchangeable nature of God's predetermined choice ensures that salvation, once granted, is permanent and irreversible. This offers a profound sense of assurance and security to those who believe they are among the elect. For more information on this theological perspective, you can explore resources on the Perseverance of the Saints.
