SELECTED ARTICLE
Testing Calvinism’s Proof Texts – Volume 2
Estimated time to read:
Read this article to me
Suggested prerequisite reading:
Supporting Articles:
A Complete Berean Catalogue of Calvinist Proof Texts
Purpose
This companion reference surveys the biblical passages commonly cited in support of Calvinistic theology. Each passage is evaluated using the same Berean methodology employed throughout Volume I: careful attention to context, grammar, literary flow, and the whole counsel of Scripture. The purpose is not to defend or attack a theological system, but to test every claim by Scripture.
Genesis — Book Summary
Primary Calvinist proof texts: Genesis 6:5; Genesis 50:20
Secondary proof texts: Genesis 12:1–3; 15:6; 18:19; 25:23; 45:5–8
Occasionally cited: Genesis 20:6; 22:18; 24:27; 26:3–5
Rare or historical citations: various narrative texts.
Genesis 6:5
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Human depravity is so extensive that fallen humanity cannot come to God apart from divine grace.
Immediate Context: The verse describes mankind’s pervasive wickedness before the flood: every inclination of the heart was continually evil. It establishes universal corruption but does not explicitly define the precise nature of human inability, nor the order of regeneration and faith.
Berean Assessment: Useful in establishing universal sinfulness, but insufficient by itself to prove Total Inability as classically defined.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 12:1–3
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign call of Abram illustrates divine initiative.
Immediate Context: God freely chose Abram for a covenant purpose that would bless all nations. The immediate context concerns redemptive history rather than an explanation of individual election unto salvation.
Berean Assessment: Supports God’s sovereign choice in history but is not a direct proof text for unconditional election.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 15:6
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: Salvation is entirely by God’s gracious provision.
Immediate Context: Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness. The emphasis falls on faith being counted as righteousness rather than on the eternal decree preceding faith.
Berean Assessment: An important text on justification by faith; not primarily a discussion of predestination.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 18:19
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s choice of Abraham demonstrates sovereign election.
Immediate Context: The passage explains why Abraham was chosen: that he would instruct his household to keep the way of the LORD. The covenantal purpose is foregrounded.
Berean Assessment: Better understood as vocational and covenantal election than as an exposition of individual salvation.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 20:6
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God restrains human actions according to His sovereign will.
Immediate Context: God prevented Abimelech from sinning with Sarah. This demonstrates God’s providential restraint in a specific historical event.
Berean Assessment: Strong evidence for divine providence; not a proof of exhaustive determinism.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 22:18
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s covenant purposes unfold according to His sovereign plan.
Immediate Context: The promise concerns the coming Seed through whom all nations will be blessed.
Berean Assessment: Messianic and covenantal rather than a discussion of individual election.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 25:23
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Jacob and Esau illustrate unconditional election.
Immediate Context: Paul later cites this verse in Romans 9. In Genesis, however, the prophecy concerns two nations descending from the twins and their historical destinies.
Berean Assessment: A foundational passage that must be interpreted alongside Romans 9; Genesis itself emphasizes national destiny.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 45:5–8
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God sovereignly ordained Joseph’s suffering.
Immediate Context: Joseph repeatedly affirms that God used his brothers’ evil actions to preserve life.
Berean Assessment: Powerful testimony to providence, but it does not resolve every philosophical question concerning determinism and moral responsibility.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Genesis 50:20
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God ordained human evil for good purposes.
Immediate Context: Joseph distinguishes his brothers’ evil intention from God’s good intention in the same event.
Berean Assessment: Strong evidence for meticulous providence in redemptive history. Whether it establishes exhaustive theological determinism requires further argument beyond the verse itself.
Reference Status: Volume I contains fuller discussion where applicable.
Exodus 4:21
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God hardens Pharaoh’s heart.
Immediate Context: God announces Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened as part of the Exodus narrative.
Berean Assessment: The passage establishes God’s sovereign action in history but should be interpreted together with the repeated statements that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Exodus 9:12
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s hardening demonstrates sovereign control over human rulers.
Immediate Context: The plague narratives alternate between Pharaoh hardening his heart and God hardening it.
Berean Assessment: The complete narrative should be considered before drawing conclusions about moral responsibility.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Exodus 33:19
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God has mercy according to His sovereign will.
Immediate Context: Quoted by Paul in Romans 9.
Berean Assessment: The original context concerns God’s freedom in showing covenant mercy to Israel after the golden calf.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Leviticus 20:26
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God chooses a people for Himself.
Immediate Context: Israel is separated from the nations for covenant purposes.
Berean Assessment: This concerns covenant holiness rather than individual election unto salvation.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Numbers 23:19
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign purposes cannot fail.
Immediate Context: Balaam affirms God’s faithfulness.
Berean Assessment: Affirms God’s immutability rather than Calvinistic soteriology.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Deuteronomy 7:6–8
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Israel’s election was based on God’s sovereign love.
Immediate Context: Israel was chosen because of God’s covenant promise, not national merit.
Berean Assessment: A clear text on corporate covenant election; whether it extends directly to individual salvation requires additional argument.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Deuteronomy 10:14–16
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign ownership grounds His choice.
Immediate Context: Israel is commanded to circumcise their hearts.
Berean Assessment: Divine sovereignty and human responsibility appear together.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Deuteronomy 29:29
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Some appeal to the mystery of God’s decrees.
Immediate Context: The verse distinguishes secret things from revealed things.
Berean Assessment: It encourages submission to revealed Scripture rather than speculation.
Reference Status: See Volume I where fuller treatment exists.
Joshua 11:20
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereignty is seen in the hardening of hostile kings.
Immediate Context: The verse explains why the Canaanite coalition continued to resist Israel.
Berean Assessment: The context concerns judicial hardening in redemptive history, not individual election to salvation.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Joshua 24:15
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Human responsibility is emphasized.
Immediate Context: Joshua exhorts Israel to choose whom they will serve.
Berean Assessment: This passage is frequently discussed alongside doctrines of divine sovereignty because it plainly calls for a genuine covenant response.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Judges 2:22–23
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God sovereignly leaves nations to test Israel.
Immediate Context: The remaining nations become a covenant test.
Berean Assessment: Providence is evident, but the text is not a Calvinist proof text for soteriology.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Ruth 1–4
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s providence governs ordinary events.
Immediate Context: The narrative displays God’s guidance through seemingly ordinary circumstances.
Berean Assessment: The book beautifully illustrates providence without directly addressing election or predestination.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
1 Samuel 2:25
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The LORD’s judgment explains why Eli’s sons would not listen.
Immediate Context: The verse appears in the context of covenant judgment.
Berean Assessment: Judicial hardening should not automatically be equated with unconditional election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
2 Samuel 24:1
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God is sovereign even over events involving David’s census.
Immediate Context: The narrative should be compared with 1 Chronicles 21:1.
Berean Assessment: Together the passages demonstrate the complexity of divine sovereignty and secondary causes.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
1 Kings 22:19–23
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign rule extends over heavenly beings.
Immediate Context: Micaiah’s vision portrays God’s authority over the heavenly court.
Berean Assessment: The passage strongly affirms sovereignty but should be interpreted according to its prophetic genre.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
2 Kings
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No major Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Although God’s sovereignty is displayed throughout Israel’s history.
Berean Assessment: No standard soteriological proof texts arise from this book.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
1 Chronicles
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: The book recounts covenant history and Davidic genealogy.
Berean Assessment: No detailed exegetical treatment is required.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
2 Chronicles 30:9
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God is gracious to those who return to Him.
Immediate Context: Hezekiah calls Israel to repentance.
Berean Assessment: The emphasis is covenant restoration through repentance rather than irresistible grace.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Ezra
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: The restoration narrative highlights God’s faithfulness.
Berean Assessment: Not a principal source for Calvinist doctrine.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Nehemiah 9
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God faithfully preserves His covenant.
Immediate Context: The prayer surveys Israel’s history.
Berean Assessment: The focus is covenant faithfulness, not predestination.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Esther
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s providence governs unseen events.
Immediate Context: Though God’s name is absent, His providence permeates the narrative.
Berean Assessment: A classic illustration of providence rather than a proof of unconditional election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II.
Job 1:8–12
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereignty extends over Satan’s activity.
Immediate Context: The prologue shows Satan acting only within limits God permits.
Berean Assessment: Affirms God’s supreme authority without directly addressing election or regeneration.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Job 42:2
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No purpose of God can be thwarted.
Immediate Context: Job acknowledges God’s absolute sovereignty.
Berean Assessment: A foundational text on divine omnipotence rather than Calvinistic soteriology.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Psalm 33:10–11
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s counsel stands forever.
Immediate Context: The psalm contrasts human plans with God’s enduring purposes.
Berean Assessment: Strong support for divine sovereignty but not a direct statement on unconditional election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Psalm 51:5
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Human beings are sinful from conception.
Immediate Context: David confesses the depth of his sinfulness.
Berean Assessment: Supports pervasive human sinfulness; whether it teaches inherited inability is debated.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Psalm 65:4
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God brings people near to Himself.
Immediate Context: The psalm celebrates those whom God welcomes into His courts.
Berean Assessment: The immediate setting is covenant worship, not an ordo salutis.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Psalm 110:3
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s people are made willing.
Immediate Context: A royal Messianic psalm.
Berean Assessment: Interpretation varies and should not be isolated from its poetic context.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Psalm 115:3
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God does all that He pleases.
Immediate Context: A declaration of God’s supremacy over idols.
Berean Assessment: Affirms sovereignty without specifying how it relates to every human decision.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Psalm 135:6
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The LORD accomplishes all His will.
Immediate Context: A hymn praising God’s universal rule.
Berean Assessment: Supports divine sovereignty in creation and history.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Proverbs 16:1
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: The LORD ultimately directs human speech.
Immediate Context: Human planning is contrasted with God’s final determination.
Berean Assessment: Illustrates providence rather than exhaustive determinism.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Proverbs 16:9
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God directs human steps.
Immediate Context: People make plans, but the LORD establishes their course.
Berean Assessment: Balances human responsibility with divine providence.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Proverbs 16:33
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Even seemingly random events fall under God’s control.
Immediate Context: The casting of lots belongs ultimately to the LORD.
Berean Assessment: A strong statement of providence.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Proverbs 19:21
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s purpose prevails over human plans.
Immediate Context: Human intentions are subordinate to God’s counsel.
Berean Assessment: Supports sovereignty while recognizing genuine human planning.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Proverbs 21:1
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God directs the king’s heart.
Immediate Context: The king’s heart is compared to channels of water in the LORD’s hand.
Berean Assessment: A key text on God’s rule over rulers, though not directly on individual salvation.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Ecclesiastes 3:1–14
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God appoints times and seasons.
Immediate Context: The Teacher reflects on God’s ordering of life’s events.
Berean Assessment: Providence is emphasized more than predestination.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Song of Solomon
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: The book celebrates covenant love and marriage.
Berean Assessment: No direct contribution to Calvinist soteriology.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where applicable.
Isaiah 6:9–10
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God judicially hardens Israel.
Immediate Context: Isaiah is commissioned to proclaim a message that results in Israel’s hardening.
Berean Assessment: The context is judicial hardening following persistent rebellion, not an initial decree of individual reprobation.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Isaiah 10:5–15
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God sovereignly uses Assyria while judging its arrogance.
Immediate Context: Assyria is God’s instrument yet remains accountable.
Berean Assessment: Shows providence and responsibility operating together.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Isaiah 45:7
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God is sovereign over prosperity and calamity.
Immediate Context: The prophecy emphasizes God’s unrivaled rule over history.
Berean Assessment: The verse concerns covenant judgments and blessings, not God being the moral author of evil.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Isaiah 46:9–11
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God declares the end from the beginning.
Immediate Context: God’s redemptive purpose will certainly stand.
Berean Assessment: Affirms God’s sovereign ability to accomplish His purposes without explaining every human choice.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Jeremiah 1:5
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s foreknowledge and appointment of Jeremiah illustrate election.
Immediate Context: Jeremiah is set apart as a prophet before birth.
Berean Assessment: This is vocational election to prophetic ministry, not a direct exposition of individual salvation.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Jeremiah 18:1–10
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The potter and clay demonstrate God’s sovereign rights.
Immediate Context: God explains His dealings with nations based on their response.
Berean Assessment: The passage explicitly includes conditionality: repentance and persistence affect God’s announced actions.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Jeremiah 31:31–34
Classification: Occasional Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The New Covenant is God’s gracious work.
Immediate Context: God promises a new covenant with transformed hearts.
Berean Assessment: The focus is covenant renewal rather than the order of salvation.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Lamentations 3:37–38
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Nothing occurs apart from God’s sovereign permission.
Immediate Context: Jeremiah reflects on God’s rule amid suffering.
Berean Assessment: Affirms sovereignty while calling for repentance and hope.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Ezekiel 11:19–20
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God gives a new heart.
Immediate Context: Promise of Israel’s restoration.
Berean Assessment: Corporate covenant restoration is primary in context.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Ezekiel 18:23,30–32
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: God desires the wicked to repent.
Immediate Context: The prophet calls every individual to turn and live.
Berean Assessment: Balances discussions of sovereignty with God’s revealed desire for repentance.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Ezekiel 36:26–27
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God gives a new heart and Spirit.
Immediate Context: Promise of future restoration under the New Covenant.
Berean Assessment: A foundational promise that must be interpreted within its covenantal context.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Daniel 4:34–35
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God does according to His will among heaven and earth.
Immediate Context: Nebuchadnezzar confesses God’s universal dominion.
Berean Assessment: One of Scripture’s clearest affirmations of divine sovereignty.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Daniel 2:20–22
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God raises up and removes kings.
Immediate Context: Daniel praises God’s control over history.
Berean Assessment: Emphasizes providence in world empires.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Hosea 11:1–9
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign covenant love.
Immediate Context: God recounts His faithful love despite Israel’s rebellion.
Berean Assessment: Emphasizes covenant compassion more than predestination.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Joel 2:28–32
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God pours out His Spirit according to His purpose.
Immediate Context: Promise of the Spirit in the last days.
Berean Assessment: Focuses on redemptive promise rather than election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Amos 3:2
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Israel alone was chosen from among the nations.
Immediate Context: Election is corporate and covenantal.
Berean Assessment: Illustrates national election rather than individual salvation.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Obadiah
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Judgment against Edom.
Berean Assessment: No direct contribution to Calvinist soteriology.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Jonah 2:9
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Salvation belongs to the LORD.
Immediate Context: Jonah praises God for deliverance.
Berean Assessment: Strong affirmation that salvation is God’s work, without defining the mechanics of election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Micah 5:2
Classification: Rarely Cited
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign Messianic purpose.
Immediate Context: Prophecy of the Messiah’s birth.
Berean Assessment: Christological rather than soteriological.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Nahum
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No major Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Oracle against Nineveh.
Berean Assessment: Focuses on divine justice.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Habakkuk 2:4
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The righteous shall live by faith.
Immediate Context: Quoted repeatedly in the New Testament.
Berean Assessment: A foundational text for justification by faith, not unconditional election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Zephaniah 3:17
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God delights in His redeemed people.
Immediate Context: Promise of restoration.
Berean Assessment: Highlights God’s covenant joy.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Haggai
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Temple rebuilding.
Berean Assessment: No direct discussion of election.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Zechariah 12:10
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God pours out a spirit of grace.
Immediate Context: Future repentance of God’s people.
Berean Assessment: God’s initiative and human repentance appear together.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Zechariah 13:1
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God provides cleansing from sin.
Immediate Context: Continuation of restoration promises.
Berean Assessment: Emphasizes atonement and cleansing.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Malachi 1:2–5
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Jacob I loved, Esau I hated.
Immediate Context: Contrasts God’s covenant dealings with Israel and Edom.
Berean Assessment: The context is corporate, covenantal, and historical; Paul later cites it in Romans 9, where further theological implications are discussed.
Reference Status: Surveyed in Volume II; see Volume I where expanded.
Matthew 11:25–27
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The Father sovereignly reveals the Son to whom He wills.
Immediate Context: Jesus thanks the Father for revealing truth to ‘little children’ while it remains hidden from the wise. He affirms that no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.
Berean Assessment: This is a major sovereignty text. It clearly teaches divine initiative in revelation, while the broader Gospel also repeatedly calls all people to repent and believe.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 13:10–17
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The parables demonstrate God’s judicial concealment of truth.
Immediate Context: Jesus explains why He speaks in parables, citing Isaiah 6. The hardening follows persistent unbelief.
Berean Assessment: The context emphasizes judicial hardening rather than an original decree preventing faith.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 20:1–16
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: The laborers in the vineyard illustrate God’s sovereign freedom.
Immediate Context: The landowner is free to show generosity as he chooses.
Berean Assessment: The parable addresses God’s generosity and the danger of envy rather than unconditional election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 22:1–14
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Many are called, but few are chosen.
Immediate Context: The kingdom invitation is broadly extended, yet many reject it while one guest is expelled for lacking proper wedding garments.
Berean Assessment: The passage contains both a universal invitation and a distinction between the called and chosen. It should be interpreted within the whole parable.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 22:14
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Many are called, but few are chosen.
Immediate Context: This summarizes the wedding banquet parable.
Berean Assessment: The verse is frequently cited in election discussions but should not be isolated from the parable that precedes it.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 23:37
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Jesus genuinely desired Jerusalem’s repentance.
Immediate Context: Jesus laments over Jerusalem’s unwillingness to come to Him.
Berean Assessment: This passage is significant because it explicitly presents Christ’s expressed desire alongside human unwillingness.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 24:24
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: The elect are preserved from ultimate deception.
Immediate Context: Jesus warns of false christs and false prophets.
Berean Assessment: The text affirms God’s preservation of His people without explaining the origin of election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 24:31
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The elect are gathered at Christ’s return.
Immediate Context: Angels gather the elect from the ends of the earth.
Berean Assessment: Affirms the certainty of God’s saving purpose without defining the basis of election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Matthew 25:31–46
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Final judgment is according to demonstrated faith.
Immediate Context: The sheep and goats are separated by the Son of Man.
Berean Assessment: The passage emphasizes accountability and evidential works flowing from genuine faith.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Mark 4:10–12
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Jesus speaks in parables resulting in judicial hardening.
Immediate Context: The explanation cites Isaiah 6 and follows persistent unbelief.
Berean Assessment: The context concerns judicial concealment, not an initial decree of reprobation.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Mark 13:20
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The days are shortened for the sake of the elect.
Immediate Context: Jesus speaks of God’s preserving care during tribulation.
Berean Assessment: Affirms God’s preservation of His people without defining the basis of election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Luke 8:10
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Knowledge of the kingdom is given by God.
Immediate Context: Jesus distinguishes between the disciples and the crowds.
Berean Assessment: The emphasis is on revelation in the context of persistent unbelief.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Luke 10:21–22
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The Father reveals the Son according to His sovereign will.
Immediate Context: Parallel to Matthew 11:25–27.
Berean Assessment: Strongly affirms divine initiative while Luke also repeatedly calls sinners to repent.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Luke 13:34
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Jesus genuinely desired Jerusalem’s repentance.
Immediate Context: Christ laments over Jerusalem’s unwillingness.
Berean Assessment: Highlights revealed divine compassion alongside human responsibility.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Luke 18:7
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God will vindicate His elect.
Immediate Context: The persistent widow encourages perseverance in prayer.
Berean Assessment: Focuses on God’s faithfulness to His people.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 1:12–13
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: New birth is of God, not human will.
Immediate Context: Those who receive Christ become children of God.
Berean Assessment: Affirms divine initiative while also emphasizing receiving and believing.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 3:3–8
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The new birth is the sovereign work of the Spirit.
Immediate Context: Jesus explains the necessity of being born again.
Berean Assessment: A foundational regeneration passage whose relationship to faith is debated.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 3:16–18
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: God loves the world and calls all to believe.
Immediate Context: The gospel invitation is universal in scope.
Berean Assessment: Balances discussions of election with the universal offer of salvation.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 5:39–40
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: People refuse to come to Christ.
Immediate Context: Jesus rebukes those unwilling to believe.
Berean Assessment: Emphasizes human responsibility and unwillingness.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 6
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The Bread of Life discourse.
Immediate Context: Jesus teaches about the Father’s giving, drawing, and raising believers.
Berean Assessment: See the extensive treatment in Volume I; this is one of Calvinism’s central proof texts.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 10:26–29
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Christ’s sheep hear His voice and are secure.
Immediate Context: Jesus contrasts His sheep with unbelievers.
Berean Assessment: A major text for election and perseverance requiring careful contextual study.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 12:37–40
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Israel’s unbelief fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy.
Immediate Context: John cites Isaiah 6 regarding hardening.
Berean Assessment: The context concerns judicial hardening after persistent rejection.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
John 17:2,6,9,24
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The Father has given a people to the Son.
Immediate Context: Jesus prays for those entrusted to Him.
Berean Assessment: A significant passage in discussions of election and particular redemption.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Acts 2:23
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Christ’s crucifixion occurred according to God’s definite plan.
Immediate Context: Peter joins God’s foreknowledge and plan with human culpability.
Berean Assessment: Affirms both divine sovereignty and genuine human responsibility.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Acts 4:27–28
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Herod, Pilate, the Gentiles, and Israel fulfilled God’s predetermined purpose.
Immediate Context: The early church prays after persecution.
Berean Assessment: A key text on God’s sovereign redemptive plan without removing human accountability.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Acts 7:51
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: People resist the Holy Spirit.
Immediate Context: Stephen rebukes Israel’s persistent unbelief.
Berean Assessment: Frequently cited in discussions of whether grace can be resisted.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Acts 13:48
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Those appointed to eternal life believed.
Immediate Context: Luke records the response of Jews and Gentiles in Pisidian Antioch.
Berean Assessment: One of Calvinism’s principal proof texts; see the detailed exegetical treatment in Volume I.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Acts 16:14
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The Lord opened Lydia’s heart.
Immediate Context: God enabled Lydia to respond to Paul’s message.
Berean Assessment: Affirms divine initiative while the precise relationship between enabling and faith remains debated.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Acts 17:30
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: God commands all people everywhere to repent.
Immediate Context: Paul addresses the Athenians.
Berean Assessment: A universal command that should be considered alongside passages on divine sovereignty.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 1:16–32
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Humanity suppresses the truth in unrighteousness.
Immediate Context: Paul describes universal guilt and rebellion.
Berean Assessment: Foundational for understanding depravity, though not by itself a complete doctrine of inability.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 3:9–26
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: None is righteous; justification is by grace through faith.
Immediate Context: Paul concludes all are under sin.
Berean Assessment: Central to the doctrine of sin and justification.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 5:12–21
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Adam and Christ as covenant heads.
Immediate Context: Death entered through Adam; life comes through Christ.
Berean Assessment: Foundational to discussions of original sin and representative headship.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 8
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, and glorification.
Immediate Context: Paul assures believers of God’s saving purpose.
Berean Assessment: See the comprehensive analysis in Volume I.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 9
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God’s sovereign freedom in election.
Immediate Context: Paul discusses Israel, mercy, and the potter and clay.
Berean Assessment: One of the central passages in Calvinist theology; treated extensively in Volume I.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 10
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Faith comes by hearing.
Immediate Context: Paul emphasizes preaching and human response.
Berean Assessment: Balances Romans 9 by stressing the universal gospel invitation.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
Romans 11
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The remnant according to grace.
Immediate Context: Paul explains Israel’s present and future.
Berean Assessment: Corporate election and covenant history are central themes.
Reference Status: See Volume I for the full exegetical discussion where applicable.
1 Corinthians 1:18–31
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God chooses the foolish and weak.
Immediate Context: Paul contrasts God’s wisdom with worldly wisdom.
Berean Assessment: The emphasis is on God’s gracious choice of unlikely people to eliminate boasting, not a detailed doctrine of unconditional election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
1 Corinthians 2:14
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The natural person cannot receive the things of the Spirit.
Immediate Context: Paul contrasts the natural and spiritual person.
Berean Assessment: A key text in debates over Total Inability. The nature of the inability must be established from the context rather than assumed.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
1 Corinthians 15:22
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: Adam and Christ represent humanity.
Immediate Context: Paul discusses the resurrection.
Berean Assessment: The focus is resurrection, not the order of salvation.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
2 Corinthians 4:3–6
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God shines light into dark hearts.
Immediate Context: Paul explains why some reject the gospel.
Berean Assessment: Affirms divine initiative while emphasizing the proclamation of Christ.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
2 Corinthians 5:17–21
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: God reconciles the world through Christ.
Immediate Context: Believers are ambassadors pleading for reconciliation.
Berean Assessment: The universal appeal of the gospel is prominent.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Galatians 1:15–16
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Paul was set apart before birth.
Immediate Context: Paul describes his apostolic calling.
Berean Assessment: A vocational calling text more than a treatise on individual election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Galatians 3:26–29
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: All who believe are sons of God.
Immediate Context: Union with Christ comes through faith.
Berean Assessment: Faith is explicitly emphasized.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Ephesians 1:3–14
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Election and predestination.
Immediate Context: Paul praises God for His saving purpose in Christ.
Berean Assessment: One of Calvinism’s central proof texts. See the detailed exposition in Volume I.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Ephesians 2:1–10
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Dead in sin; saved by grace.
Immediate Context: Paul contrasts former spiritual death with God’s saving grace.
Berean Assessment: Central to discussions of depravity, grace, and faith.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Ephesians 2:8–10
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Salvation by grace through faith.
Immediate Context: Salvation is God’s gift.
Berean Assessment: Important for understanding the relationship of grace, faith, and works.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Philippians 1:6
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God completes the work He begins.
Immediate Context: Paul expresses confidence in God’s faithfulness.
Berean Assessment: Frequently used in perseverance discussions.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Philippians 1:29
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Belief is granted by God.
Immediate Context: Suffering and believing are both described as granted.
Berean Assessment: Affirms God’s gracious initiative.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Philippians 2:12–13
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God works in believers to will and act.
Immediate Context: Believers are commanded to work out their salvation.
Berean Assessment: Divine enablement and human responsibility are presented together.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Colossians 1:13–23
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God transfers believers into Christ’s kingdom.
Immediate Context: Paul exalts Christ’s supremacy.
Berean Assessment: Emphasizes God’s saving work while calling believers to continue in the faith.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
1 Thessalonians 1:4–5
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Paul knows their election.
Immediate Context: The gospel came in power.
Berean Assessment: Election is linked with observable fruits.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
1 Thessalonians 5:9
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God appointed believers for salvation.
Immediate Context: A word of assurance.
Berean Assessment: Addresses believers’ hope rather than the mechanics of election.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
2 Thessalonians 2:13
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Chosen for salvation.
Immediate Context: Paul thanks God for His saving work.
Berean Assessment: Frequently cited in election discussions and should be interpreted with its immediate context.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
1 Timothy 2:3–6
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: God desires all people to be saved.
Immediate Context: Paul urges prayer for everyone.
Berean Assessment: Important in discussions of God’s saving will.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
2 Timothy 1:9
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Saved according to God’s purpose and grace.
Immediate Context: Paul stresses God’s eternal purpose.
Berean Assessment: A major sovereignty text.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
2 Timothy 2:10
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Paul endures for the sake of the elect.
Immediate Context: Mission is carried out for God’s chosen people.
Berean Assessment: Demonstrates that election motivates evangelism.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Titus 2:11
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: The grace of God has appeared bringing salvation.
Immediate Context: Paul emphasizes godly living.
Berean Assessment: Highlights the universal proclamation of grace.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Philemon
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Personal appeal concerning Onesimus.
Berean Assessment: No direct contribution to Calvinist soteriology.
Reference Status: See Volume I for expanded treatment where applicable.
Hebrews 6:4–6
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Warning against apostasy.
Immediate Context: The author warns professing believers about falling away.
Berean Assessment: A key perseverance passage that must be interpreted carefully alongside assurance texts.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Hebrews 10:14
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Christ perfectly secures His people.
Immediate Context: The context contrasts Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice with the old covenant.
Berean Assessment: Supports the sufficiency of Christ’s work.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Hebrews 12:2
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: Jesus is the author and perfecter of faith.
Immediate Context: Believers are exhorted to endure by fixing their eyes on Christ.
Berean Assessment: Emphasizes Christ’s faithfulness more than a detailed doctrine of election.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
James 1:18
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: God brought us forth by the word of truth.
Immediate Context: The new birth originates in God’s gracious will.
Berean Assessment: The same context stresses receiving the implanted word and obeying it.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
James 2:5
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: God chose the poor in the world.
Immediate Context: The context condemns favoritism in the church.
Berean Assessment: Focuses on God’s gracious pattern, not a systematic doctrine of unconditional election.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
1 Peter 1:1–2
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: The elect according to God’s foreknowledge.
Immediate Context: Peter addresses scattered believers.
Berean Assessment: A foundational election text requiring careful attention to the meaning of foreknowledge.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
1 Peter 1:23
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Born again through the living word.
Immediate Context: The new birth is linked to the preached gospel.
Berean Assessment: Affirms both divine initiative and the instrumentality of the Word.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
1 Peter 2:8–10
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Chosen people and stumbling.
Immediate Context: Corporate identity in Christ is central to the passage.
Berean Assessment: The passage primarily concerns the identity and calling of God’s covenant people.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
2 Peter 1:10
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Make your calling and election sure.
Immediate Context: Believers are urged to confirm their calling through diligent growth.
Berean Assessment: Election is presented with practical exhortation.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
2 Peter 3:9
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: God is not willing that any should perish.
Immediate Context: God’s patience serves His saving purpose.
Berean Assessment: A major passage in discussions of God’s saving desire.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
1 John 2:19
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Those who departed were never truly of us.
Immediate Context: John distinguishes genuine believers from apostates.
Berean Assessment: Frequently cited in perseverance discussions.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
1 John 5:1
Classification: Occasionally Cited
Calvinist Claim: Everyone believing has been born of God.
Immediate Context: The grammatical relationship between believing and being born again is debated.
Berean Assessment: The verse should be interpreted in the context of John’s emphasis on faith and new life.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
2 John
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Short pastoral letter.
Berean Assessment: No direct contribution to Calvinist soteriology.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
3 John
Classification: Not a Significant Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: No recognized Calvinist proof texts.
Immediate Context: Personal correspondence.
Berean Assessment: No direct contribution to Calvinist soteriology.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Jude 1,24
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Called, beloved, kept; God keeps His people.
Immediate Context: Jude combines assurance with exhortation.
Berean Assessment: Supports perseverance while warning against false teachers.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Revelation 13:8
Classification: Primary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Names written in the book of life.
Immediate Context: The verse is central to debates over election and the book of life.
Berean Assessment: Careful attention should be paid to the Greek syntax and translation issues.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Revelation 17:8
Classification: Secondary Proof Text
Calvinist Claim: Book of life from the foundation of the world.
Immediate Context: The beast’s followers are contrasted with God’s people.
Berean Assessment: Closely related to Revelation 13:8.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Revelation 22:17
Classification: Counterbalancing Text
Calvinist Claim: Whoever wills may take the water of life freely.
Immediate Context: The Bible closes with a universal gospel invitation.
Berean Assessment: A fitting conclusion that emphasizes the free offer of salvation.
Reference Status: See Volume I where expanded.
Concluding Index and Research Guide
Purpose
This concluding section summarizes the scope of Volume II and provides a research guide for locating the principal Calvinist proof texts by biblical book. Readers should use this index together with the detailed exegetical discussions contained in Volume I.
Primary Calvinist Proof Texts Surveyed
- Genesis 25:23; 50:20
- Exodus 9:12; 33:19
- Deuteronomy 7:6–8
- Isaiah 6:9–10; 46:9–11
- Jeremiah 18:1–10
- Ezekiel 36:26–27
- Daniel 4:34–35
- Malachi 1:2–5
- Matthew 11:25–27; 22:14
- Luke 10:21–22
- John 1:12–13; 3:3–8; 6; 10:26–29; 17
- Acts 4:27–28; 13:48
- Romans 3; 5; 8; 9
- 1 Corinthians 1:18–31; 2:14
- Ephesians 1; 2
- Philippians 2:12–13
- 2 Thessalonians 2:13
- 2 Timothy 1:9
- 1 Peter 1:1–2
- Revelation 13:8
How to Use This Companion Volume
- Locate the biblical passage.
2. Read the immediate context.
3. Compare the Calvinist interpretation.
4. Read the Berean assessment.
5. Consult the corresponding chapter in Volume I for a full exegetical treatment where indicated.
Final Exhortation
The purpose of this catalogue is not to encourage loyalty to a theological system, but to encourage careful submission to the authority of Scripture. Like the Bereans of Acts 17:11, may every reader examine these things diligently, holding fast to what is true and honoring Christ above every human tradition.