Abstract
The purpose of this article is to establish that the strategic, missiological thinking of the Church Growth Movement is compatible with a Calvinistic soteriology. The method for accomplishing this purpose involves, first, a clarification of terms. Both “Church Growth Movement” and “Calvinism” have been defined in myriad ways, and these are not all equally valid. Thus, specific descriptions are included here. Next is a necessary discussion of the tensions that are perceived to exist between Church Growth and Calvinism. This is followed by a survey of kindred concerns and an exhibition of the common doctrinal ground shown to be held by parties in each camp, especially including McGavran’s theological convictions. Specific areas of compatibility are described in two sections that discuss first, the expected success of the Gospel, then receptivity and the Harvest Principle, respectively.
Recommended Citation
Waldrop, M. (2009). An Examination of the Compatibility of the Church Growth Movement with a Calvinistic Soteriology. Great Commission Research Journal, 1(1), 33-49. Retrieved from https://place.asburyseminary.edu/gcrj/vol1/iss1/4
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