Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how the theology that God has pre-ordained events throughout the history of the world, and has pre-ordained those who will enter a state of salvation is common to both Calvinists and Lutherans. This is called pre-destination and both Luther and Calvin strongly believed it to be truth. The paper also looks at the similarities of both religions on God and salvation and their joint beliefs in total depravity, unconditional election, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of Saints.

Outline:
Calvinist Similarities and Differences with Lutheranism
Why did Calvinism Become the Major International Form of Protestantism?

From the Paper:

"Calvinist and Lutheran views of the Lord's Supper differ also. This may be one of the biggest controversies between Luther and Calvin. Catholicism believes that the bread used in the Lord's Supper or Communion actually becomes the physical body of Christ when the priest holds it up at the altar and proclaims, "This is my body..." Lutherans mostly believe that the real body and blood of the Lord are physically present at the Lord's Table and are taken by believer and unbeliever. The Presbyterian or Reformed view of this is that the body and blood of Christ are indeed present at the Communion Table, but only by the power of the Holy Spirit (within us) uniting us with Christ, and only believers partake. It is not the physical body and blood of Christ that the believer is taking, but that spirit of unity brought on by the power of the Holy Spirit. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• OPC. "Differences between Lutheran and Presbyterian." Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). n.d. http://www.opc.org/qa.html?question_id=292 (accessed July 25, 2009).
• Robinson, B.A. "Belief systems within Christianity: Calvinism." Religioustolerance.org. July 20, 2004. http://www.religioustolerance.org/calvinism.htm (accessed July 24, 2009).
• Schneider, J. "Calvin and Luther on Universal Salvation." blogspot.com. April 26, 2005. http://thejoshuavictortheory.blogspot.com/2005/04/calvin-and-luther-on-unive_111455996954521476.html (accessed July 25, 2009).
• Slick, M.J. "The Five Points of Calvinism." Calvinist Corner. n.d. http://www.religioustolerance.org/calvinism.htm (accessed July 25, 2009).
• Steele, D.N., and C.C. Thomas. The five points of Calvinism; defined, defended, documented. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Publishing, 1963.

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