Met onderscheidingsvermogen. Arminius’ waardering voor en kritiek op Calvijn en diens theologie

Samenvatting

The Reformed pastor and professor Jacobus Arminius (1559-1609) is remembered as an antiCalvinistic theologian whose views were in conflict with the very essence of the Reformation. The question concerning Arminius’s relation to the Reformation and to Calvin has occupied many already, and remains complex. This article illustrates that Arminius had great respect particularly for Calvin’s exegetical prowess, and was in agreement with the most important parts of his theology. However, Arminius shows significant divergence from Calvin’s view on God’s relationship to evil and sin because of its consequences; as far as Arminius is concerned, God is - unintentionally - made the author of sin. According to Arminius this undermines the most important pillar of the Christian religion, namely, God’s love for justice.