This is a guide to help people see some differences between a Reformed (Calvinist) view of God and an Open View of God.


Overview

Reformed Theology has been the bedrock of American Christianity.

Its chief innovator was John Calvin, the innovator of Calvinism.
Calvinism is famous for its declarations of the character of God and
how God predestines history. Open Theism is an ancient Hebraic concept
that God is open for input, moving through time with us. These two
streams of thought don't get along very well.

Another way of summing up the subject might be "Hebraic thought vs Western thought".


Reformed

1. Asks God: "What do You want me to do?"
2. God predestines everything
3. God represses his emotions
4. Sovereign = God controls everything
5. We are slaves of God
6. Believes we can hasten the day Jesus returns


Open

1. Asks God: "What can I offer You?"
2. God changes his mind sometimes
3. God expresses his emotions (and they change!)
4. Sovereign = God can do whatever he wants
5. We are children of God
6. Believes we can hasten the day Jesus returns