Series Overview

Session 1: TOTAL DEPRAVITY

Part One: We discuss confusion as to where the five points of Calvinism came from. Then, we take on total depravity. What is it? What is it not? And why does it matter for us on a daily basis?
Part Two: In this section, we talk about the inconsistencies that exist in the Calvinistic evangelical world when it comes to total depravity. Many claim to hold to the doctrine but functionally deny it. We also touch on how a right understanding of total depravity produces compassion.

Scripture Referenced: Romans 1:18-32, 3:10-18, 5:12ff, 8:7-8; Ephesians 2:1-3; Jeremiah 17:9; Psalm 51:5; Genesis 6:5; Ezekiel 36:26; John 3:19, 6:44, 61 10:24-30, 15:16; Psalm 51:5; 1 Corinthians 1:21-24, 12:3; 2 Corinthians 3:12-18; Ephesians 2:1-3; Philippians 1:6; Revelations 3:20

Session 2: Unconditional Election

Part One: We discuss what do we mean by the term? What are some common misconceptions? We look to the Bible and talk about why this doctrine matters for assurance and hope.
Part Two: We answer the question, “How do I know if I’m elect?” We talk about the unhelpful answers that are often given in the broad, Calvinistic evangelical world.

Scripture Referenced: John 3:9-16; 6:37-39; 10:24-30; 15:16; Acts 13:48; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Ephesians 1:4-6; Romans 8:28-39; Romans 9; Philippians 1:3-;

Session 3: Limited Atonement

Part One: What did Jesus accomplish at the cross? What did he intend to accomplish? Can Jesus fail in anything he intends to do? We speak to some common objections and then consider how a particular view of the atonement leads to assurance.
Part Two: How does our view of limited/particular atonement give us assurance? We also launch into some spirited discussion about biblicism and expositional preaching.

Scripture Referenced: Matthew 1:21; John 6:37-40; 10:11-16; 17:1-9; Acts 20:28; Romans 8:30-35; Ephesians 1:3-14; Hebrews 10:11-14; Revelation 5:9

Session 4: Irresistible Grace

Part One: We contend that “effectual calling” is probably a better term, and then explain what is not meant by irresistible grace. We then turn our attention to the Bible and the confessions to help illustrate the goodness of this doctrine.
Part Two: We let it rip a little bit on the inconsistencies that exist in the Calvingelical world with respect to God’s grace–especially after conversion. We consider how repentance is so often turned into a work that we do and is scrutinized at every turn.

Scripture Referenced: Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:22-32; Deuteronomy 30:6; Matthew 16:16-17; John 3:1-8; 6:37-65; 10:24-30; 15:16; Acts 11:18; 13:48; 16:14; 26:12-18; Romans 8:29-30; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 1:3-14; 2:1-9; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14

Session 5: Perseverance of the Saints

Part One: God is faithful to preserve his own in Christ. We consider a number of passages of Scripture, along with the confessions. Some good questions get thrown out, like: What about when Christians sin–a lot, for a long time?
Part Two: We explain certain ways assurance is undermined. We talk pastorally about how to counsel and love struggling sinners. And, a few punchy comments are made about habitual sins.

Scripture Referenced: John 6:37-40; 10:1-30; 16:25-33; Romans 8:30-39; Philippians 1:6; Ephesians 1:3-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; 2 Timothy 2:12-13; Hebrews 7:23-25; 1 Peter 1:4-5, 21, 23; Jude 24