John Calvin (1509-64), influential French theologian, was a pastor during the Protestant Reformation. During this period, Calvin revised his work on a systematic theology called the Institutes of the Christian Religion, which later became known as the practice of Calvinism. Calvin's doctrine of election faces many criticisms, which he examines in his doctrine. In this article I will argue that Calvin's doctrine of election is not infallible based on some common criticisms, which are addressed in his doctrine, but leave room for further criticism, while at the same time calling attention to the strengths of the doctrine of Calvin. Calvin's doctrine of election is best explained by the acronym TULIP, which is often referred to as the five points of Calvinism. Tulip means: total depravity, man's inability to choose the Truth; unconditional election, God chooses those who are to be saved without any conditions; limited atonement, Christ died only for the elect; irresistible grace, the elect cannot resist salvation; and the perseverance of the saints, the elect will never lose grace. It is important to note that the basis of Calvin's doctrine of election relies heavily on foreknowledge, he candidly states that "eternal life is foreordained for some, eternal damnation for others" (p. 309). Calvin accumulates his authority from the Scriptures, in particular, through the election of Israel and the election of individuals such as Abraham and some of his descendants (p. 309-11). In this section of Calvin's doctrine, he explains how God deliberately chose Israel, the nation, and other individuals as His elect. Therefore, in unconditional election, the decision to condemn or save was made by God before creation. Since this decision was made in advance, this indicates that nothing... middle of paper... salvation. Here, Calvin aims to describe God as extremely merciful in saving anyone because the honest truth is that everyone deserves final death, not salvation. Many reject Calvin's doctrine based on personal experience or relationship with a particular church that does not support Calvin's doctrine. theology. Calvin provides exceptional arguments for why the doctrine of election is true, but critics have difficulty identifying with Calvin on predestination because he portrays God as subjective and unjust. Nonetheless, Calvinism is still a prevalent practice today that has its roots in the Protestant Reformation. Works Cited by Attridge, Harold W., Wayne A. Meeks, and Jouette M. Bassler. The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version. San Francisco, CA: HarperSanFrancisco, 2006. Print.Calvin, John. Institutes of the Christian religion. Np: np, 1960. N. pag. Press.