John Calvin and his TULIP

John Calvin and his TULIP

 

T -- total depravity. This doesn't mean people are as bad as they can be. It means that sin is in every part of one's being, including the mind and will, so that a man cannot save himself. U -- unconditional election. God chooses to save people unconditionally; that is, they are not chosen on the basis of their own merit. L -- limited atonement. The sacrifice of Christ on the cross was for the purpose of saving the elect. I -- irresistible grace. When God has chosen to save someone, He will. P -- perseverence of the saints. Those people God chooses cannot lose their salvation; they will continue to believe. If they fall away, it will be only for a time.