The Doctrines of Grace: Introduction and Overview

Total Depravity

A doctrinal position within Calvinism that asserts the pervasive corruption of human nature due to original sin, affecting all aspects of an individual’s being.

Original sin is the doctrine that, as a result of Adam’s fall, all mankind are sinners by nature, having a propensity to sin that underlies every actual sin.

Unconditional Election

A doctrine within Reformed theology asserting that before the foundation of the world, God chose certain individuals for salvation based solely on God's own will.

Limited Atonement

A doctrine in Reformed theology teaching that Christ's atonement was intended only for the elect and not for all humanity.

Irresistible Grace

A theological concept within the framework of Reformed theology that emphasizes the efficaciousness of God’s grace in bringing about the salvation of individuals. It asserts that when God extends his grace to a person, it is irresistible and cannot be ultimately rejected, as it effectively and irresistibly draws that individual to respond in faith and accept salvation.

Perseverance of the Saints

The view that people who are truly part of God’s elect will remain faithful to Christ and will not fall away from the faith.

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