Bulletin Articles
THE INJUSTICES OF CALVINSITIC IMPUTATION
THE INJUSTICES OF CALVINSITIC IMPUTATION
I will begin this article by simply stating that the doctrine of Calvinistic imputation is completely false. Notice carefully that I said “Calvinistic” imputation. The Bible DOES teach imputation (cf. Rm.4:6-8) – but NOT in the Calvinistic sense. Our study will show that Calvinistic imputation is both unbiblical and unjust! And the importance of this becomes clear when you realize that it pertains to our understanding of the nature of salvation. So, think with me about this very important matter.
In order to accurately represent the doctrine of Calvinistic imputation, I offer this quotation from the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, edited by James Orr. Under the heading, “Imputation,” there is a lengthy discussion of this doctrine. According to the ISBE, “the term ‘imputation’ has been used in theology in a threefold sense to denote the judicial acts of God by which the guilt of Adam's sin is imputed to his posterity; by which the sins of Christ's people are imputed to Him; and by which the righteousness of Christ is imputed to His people. The act of imputation is precisely the same in each case.” (Bold highlights mine, L.S.)
When you look at the statement above, it is clear that it describes not one, but three grave injustices! First, it holds humanity responsible for a sin they did not commit. Second, it holds Christ responsible for many sins that He did not commit. Third, it credits Christians for a righteousness they did not perform. In any sane world, that is rank injustice! Let’s take a look at each of these injustices, one at a time.
Holding humanity responsible for a sin they did not commit. Simply put, the guilt of Adam is (allegedly) attributed to you when you are born. Remember too, that in the above quotation, this is “the judicial act of God.” How ironic! Can someone please tell me: HOW IS THAT JUST? In the real world, judges overturn the convictions of those who were wrongfully accused and prosecuted. Why? Because an injustice has been done! Indeed, the Scriptures clearly say, “Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor shall children be put to death for their fathers; a person shall be put to death for his own sin” (Dt.24:16). I did not eat of the forbidden fruit, so why am I held responsible for it? Calvinism makes God unjust, holding humanity responsible for a sin they did not commit!
Holding Christ responsible for many sins which He did not commit. Simply put, the guilt for our sins was (allegedly) transferred to Christ, so that He could take our punishment. Now, if I become a sinner because Adam’s sin was attributed to me; then Christ becomes a sinner when my sin is attributed to Him! Martin Luther said it this way: “that Christ should become the greatest transgressor, murderer, adulterer, thief, rebel, and blasphemer, that EVER WAS OR COULD BE IN THE WORLD. For he being made a sacrifice for the sins of the whole world is not now an innocent person and without sins; is not now the Son of God, born of the Virgin Mary; but a SINNER.” (Quoted from Barnes’s Notes, on Ga.3:13). Again, I ask: HOW IS THAT JUST? Further, if Christ bore my guilt and punishment, then I can never be held responsible for any sin I commit! To hold me responsible for any sin would be “double jeopardy,” i.e., judging me twice for the same crime(s). In fact, this is the theological basis for “once saved, always saved!” Contrast that with Scripture, which teaches that Christ “offered himself without spot to God” (Hb.9:14). Rather than bearing my punishment, His death replaces my punishment with a sinless blood-sacrifice, accessible by faith (Rm.3:24-26).
Crediting Christians for righteousness which they did not perform. In other words, when God looks at you, He does not see your sins, but the personal righteousness of Christ (allegedly). At the risk of sounding repetitious, HOW IS THAT JUST? Christ’s personal righteousness was necessary on His own behalf, that He might be the offering for sin (1Pt.1:18-19). Furthermore, neither sin nor righteousness is “transferrable” to another. Notice: “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the father bear the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself” (Ezk.18:20). “Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness IS righteous, just as He is righteous” (1Jn.3:7). Do you see these injustices of Calvinistic imputation?
--Lanny Smith
