Social Activism

Shawn discusses the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth while exploring theological topics, such as Calvinism, with brother Matt Slick from the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry. They strive for civility in their discussions, valuing diverse perspectives and emphasizing that Matt approaches Calvinism as a Christian seeking dialogue rather than preaching a strict Calvinist doctrine, acknowledging the complexity and varied interpretations within Calvinist thought.

Christianity emphasizes subjective interpretation of faith, as seen in differing views between believers like Shawn and Matt, highlighting the importance of accepting varied scriptural interpretations while maintaining unity as brothers and sisters in Christ. Discussions on theological concepts such as irresistible grace and unconditional election from the TULIP doctrine further illustrate the diverse perspectives within Christian theology, underscoring the importance of understanding and respecting different beliefs in the pursuit of spiritual truth.

Calvinism suggests that salvation involves God's unconditional election and irresistible grace, meaning that God predestines and transforms certain individuals without their initial consent, giving them a new nature before they can believe. Shawn critiques this perspective, questioning its biblical basis and arguing instead for a broader interpretation of Jesus' atonement as applicable to all humanity, emphasizing that reconciliation is universally available through Christ.

The teaching challenges the Calvinist view that God's irresistible grace is required for belief, arguing instead that scripture suggests faith is birthed through hearing the word, as demonstrated in biblical narratives where individuals choose to follow God without a prior divine intervention. Citing passages like James 1:8 and 1 Peter 1:23, it emphasizes that new birth or regeneration is attributed to the hearing of the word of truth, positioning believers as part of a broader call that extends beyond just being the chosen, and refutes the notion of total depravity by highlighting the ability to choose faith upon hearing.

Shawn's teaching challenges Calvinist doctrines by emphasizing the interplay between human free will and divine influence, arguing that while God can change hearts, humans also have the agency to respond to His call, and both aspects are evident in Scripture. He posits that God's nature is rooted in freedom and love rather than control, suggesting that faith arises from a reciprocal relationship where humans choose to draw near to God.

The teaching focuses on the concept of "irresistible grace" in Calvinism, highlighting that it is not about forcibly compelling someone to believe, but rather that during the moment of spiritual regeneration, one cannot successfully resist God's effort to transform them into a new being in Christ. This doctrine emphasizes that regeneration is initiated and completed by God, not by human effort or faith, contrasting with views that suggest individuals need to activate their faith for God to act.

Shawn teaches that in salvation, belief and regeneration are not dependent on human will, but rather on God's intervention, referencing scriptures like John 1:12-13 and John 6:44 to emphasize that coming to faith requires being drawn by God's initiative. He argues against the idea that faith precedes regeneration, suggesting instead that regeneration by God's action precedes faith, highlighting the theological perspective that divine grace is necessary for one to come to faith.

In Reformed theology, regeneration, or being born again, logically precedes faith, meaning that God transforms a person through grace, resulting in their belief, a concept supported by scriptural references such as John 1:13 and James 1:18. This teaching emphasizes that belief is the result of God's irresistible grace rather than human action, highlighting the necessity of humility and caution against pride in one's faith journey.

Shawn explains the concept of irresistible grace, illustrating that belief in God is initiated by God's grace, not by human effort, evidenced in scriptures like John 6:65 and 2 Corinthians 5:17, which assert that God draws and transforms individuals to believe. This transformation is humbling, as it highlights God's mercy and glory in choosing and using flawed humans for His purpose, despite their inherent sinfulness.

Understanding the role of intellectualism in faith involves recognizing that reasoning and critical thinking are essential components of spiritual growth, as they align with biblical teachings to love God with all our mind, despite critiques of being overly intellectual. Calvinism, particularly hyper Calvinism, is critiqued for its belief that evangelism is unnecessary, which is deemed heretical; however, it is crucial to focus on the essentials of the Christian faith rather than dividing over doctrinal differences, as true Christianity is centered around belief in Jesus and His crucifixion.

Primary essentials in Christianity are doctrines explicitly stated as essential in the Bible, such as the deity of Christ, salvation by grace, and the resurrection of Christ, with key scriptural references including John 8:24 and 1 Corinthians 15:14. Secondary essentials, like the Virgin birth and the Trinity, are important beliefs derived from scripture, though not explicitly labeled as essential.