Here is a summary of the Bible’s doctrine of salvation.  History calls these truths the “Five Points of Calvinism” or the “Doctrines of Grace” but Christians believe them only because they are taught in the Bible:

T otal Depravity

Fallen mankind has been so corrupted by sin that no one is able to come to Christ unless God graciously and powerfully draws him (John 6:44, 65; Romans 3:10-11; 8:7-8; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1-9).

U nconditional Election

Before time began, God chose certain sinners to be saved by the redemptive work of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.  God’s election of sinners for salvation is grounded in His own gracious purpose and sovereign will and is not based on any good thing done by sinners themselves in the past, present, or future (Deuteronomy 7:7-8; Luke 10:21; Romans 9:1-33 ; Ephesians 1:4-6, 9-11; 2 Timothy 1:9).

L imited Atonement

The Lord Jesus Christ, by His righteous life, substitutionary death, and resurrection from the dead, actually purchased the redemption of all of God’s elect (John 10:11, 26; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25; Hebrews 9:12).

I rresistible Grace

At the time of His choosing, God powerfully, graciously, and effectively draws individual sinners to Christ so that they willingly repent and believe the gospel (Matthew 11:25-27; 16:17; John 1:13; 6:37, 45; Acts 13:48; Philippians 1:29; Titus 3:3-5; 1 Peter 1:3).

P erseverance of the saints

Sinners who have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit and saved by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ are preserved by God’s grace until they are brought safely home to heaven (John 6:39-40; 10:28-29; Romans 8:28-39; Philippians 1:6; 1 Peter 1:5).

For more information on Calvinism, check out these excellent resources: