The History of Calvinism with D.G. Hart

About The Guest(s): D.G. Hart is a historian and professor of history at Hillsdale College. He has taught at various institutions including Westminster Seminary and Wheaton College. He is also an elder in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and has written several books on history and theology. Summary: D.G. Hart discusses the impact of geography and government on the Reformation. He explains how the political environment influenced the success and spread of the Reformation, highlighting the importance of gaining support from local politicians. He also emphasizes the diversity and regional differences in the Reformation, with each area facing unique challenges and circumstances. The conversation then turns to the concept of a "golden age" in the Reformation. Hart argues against the idea of a golden age, stating that it is a misnomer and that there is always a mix of good and bad in any historical period. He points to specific periods in Reformed history, such as the Synod of Dort and the Westminster Assembly, as examples of high points in Reformed theology. The discussion also touches on the topics of martyrdom, missions, and the ongoing debate between Calvinism and Arminianism. Hart explains how martyrdom and persecution played a role in the spread of the Reformation and the development of religious freedom. He also discusses the adaptability of Calvinism to different cultures and the challenges of the Calvinist-Arminian debate. Lastly, Hart addresses the accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition. He argues that these accusations are often unfounded and that Reformed theology does emphasize the importance of sanctification and good works. Key Takeaways:

• Geography and government played a significant role in the success and spread of the Reformation.
• The concept of a "golden age" in the Reformation is a misnomer, as there is always a mix of good and bad in any historical period.
• Martyrdom and persecution were influential in the spread of the Reformation and the development of religious freedom.
• Calvinism has been adaptable to different cultures and has played a role in missions.
• Accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition are often unfounded, as Reformed theology emphasizes sanctification and good works.

Quotes:

• "The political environment in which the Church Reformation started was crucial. If you didn't gain support from your local politician, you could be executed." - D.G. Hart
• "One of the reasons why I like to study history is there's so much variety. It's hard to generalize." - D.G. Hart
• "The idea of a golden age for American Presbyterianism was the period of the Old School Presbyterian Church." - D.G. Hart
• "Martyrdom leads to the ideals of religious freedom and separation of church and state." - D.G. Hart
• "Calvinism has been adaptable to different cultures and has played a role in missions." - D.G. Hart
• "Accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition are often unfounded." - D.G. Hart