When I decide to call myself a Calvinist, then—and if I am serious in my declaration—I am implying that this is a very good way to be a human being who is created in the divine image. And in setting forth the merits of Calvinism, I am obliged to show how this way of being a Christian promotes human flourishing.
With Martin Marty’s explanation in mind, here is how I explain my own set of steps. First and foremost, I am a human being. But I find being a Christian to be the best way for me to be a human being. And I find being Protestant the best way for me to be a Christian. And I find being Reformed the best way for me to be Protestant. And I find being a Calvinist to be the best way of being Reformed.
Mouw, Richard J.. Calvinism in the Las Vegas Airport: Making Connections in Today’s World . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
