293: What is Reformed Theology? Is it the Same as Calvinism?

In this episode, Kenny briefly explains and outlines the history and essence of Reformed Theology (also known as Calvinism). This podcast episode is designed to be a foundational episode, laying the foundation for future episodes of the podcast that dive deeper into this topic.

Kenny argues that there were four types of Protestants in the 1500s: Lutherans, Anabaptists, Anglicans, and Reformed/Calvinists. To hold to “Reformed Theology” would be to affirm the theology of that fourth group.

Kenny gives us eight observations of that specific group:

1. Unconditional election
2. Covenantal theology
3. Spiritual reality in participating in the sacraments
4. Primary and secondary uses of the Law
5. Christ-centered hermeneutic
6. Pedobaptism
7. Regulative Principle of Worship
8. Particular application of theology to the public square

Additional Resources

Introduction: What is Reformed Theology? with R.C. Sproul

“What was the Protestant Reformation?”

“If the Reformation Caused Division, Why Was it a Good Thing?”

“Why Are There So Many Denominations?”

“Where’d All These Calvinists Come From?”

“Book Review: ‘The Anabaptist Story’ by William Estep“