John Calvin(Pro) vs. Jacob Arminius(Con)

"ARMINIANISM is a teaching regarding salvation associated with the Dutch theologian Jacob Arminius (1560-1609). The fundamental principle in Arminianism is the rejection of predestination, and a corresponding affirmation of the freedom of the human will. Shortly after his death, the followers of Arminius (later called Arminians) presented a statement to the governing authorities of Holland in which they set forth five articles of doctrine. These were: (1) that the divine decree of predestination is conditional, not absolute; (2) that the Atonement is in intention universal; (3) that man cannot of himself exercise a saving faith, but requires God's help to attain this faith; (4) that though the grace of God is a necessary condition of human effort it does not act irresistibly in man; (5) that believers are able to resist sin but are not beyond the possibility of falling from grace. In essence, the Arminians maintained that God gives indispensable help in salvation, but that ultimately it is the free will of man which decides the issue." [1]-------------------------------The term "Calvinism" is used by various groups to identify their beliefs with one of the most prominent leaders of the reformation, John Calvin. Groups that call themselves "Calvinists" agree with the teachings of Calvin in varying degrees: from holding simply to the "five points of Calvinism" (regarding man's salvation by the grace of God) to adhering to the teachings of Calvin not only in matters of man's salvation but also in matters relating to how we should worship God, how we should live the Christian Life, and what sort of government and order should be used in God's Church. Those who do so, do not do so because they would follow the teachings of men, but because they believe these teachings, revived at the time of the reformation in Switzerland, the Netherlands, other countries, and especially Scotland, were in truth the teachings of the Prophets, Apostles, and Christ himself, as laid down in the Holy Scriptures, though for the most part hidden for many centuries under the erroneous teachings and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. The "Five Points of Calvinism" were not formulated by Calvin, but rather by the Synod of Dort in 1618-1619, which was a gathering of many great leaders and teachers of the reformed churches throughout Europe. This Synod, in response to the heresies of James Arminius, then spreading throughout the Dutch churches, released "The Canons of Dort," which addressed five major doctrines then in dispute. Since then these doctrines, as asserted at Dort, have been summarized and labeled as the "Five Points of Calvinism." Although Calvin himself never set forth such a system of five points, these teachings are a compendium of what John Calvin and others (such as Martin Luther, Augustine, the Apostle Paul, & Christ himself) taught regarding salvation and are all founded on the holy Scriptures. Often the "Five Points" are referred to as "TULIP": Total Depravity Unconditional Election Limited Atonement Irresistible Grace Perseverance of the Saints [2] ------------------------------------Debate rules: No character attacks +Heavy use of sources requested +Cite sources in text +Multiple Bibles may be used, if you use anything outside of the KJV or ESV, please defend the translation. +The Apocrypha may be cited, but it shall not be treated as authoritative. (If it contradicts the Bible, the Bible is granted overruling authority.)+ You must be familiar with Arminian theology. +You assume the content of scripture as true, God breathed, authoritative and sufficient. You assume the God of the Bible is real and understand him as described in the Bible.Rounds: This is a five round debate.Round 1: Acceptance. Declaration of position, refinement of position. If the above description of Arminianism is not sufficient, provide your own. Cite a recognized Church authority that supports your view. (i.e. If I declared a revision to the description of Calvinism, I could cite the Westminster confession of Faith). I'd like this debate to be authentic. I'm not trying to put words in your mouth by limiting your position to the above terms.Round 2: Opening Statements - Define the nature of God, the nature of Christ, the nature of the Holy spirit. Define Baptism and it's roles. Define Salvation and it's source, purpose and attainability. Define the fallen state of man. Define the promises of the old testament. Define the fulfilment of prophecy. Define every possible position for your argument. Use this round to establish your position, rather than attacking the opposition.Round 3: Argue the opponents position. Round 4: Argue the opponent's position.Round 5: Provide synopsis of points. Conclude. Shake hands (figuratively). http://www.bible-researcher.com... [1]http://www.truecovenanter.com... [2]