I make no secret about my Calvinist beliefs and worldview. I began to agree with the concepts late in my high school years, converting from more of a “free will credo-baptist” background. My family history on both sides have long been involved in various Christian denominations–never fully committed to any one tradition. One of my great great grandmothers (on my maternal side), who was born in Puerto Rico to Spanish parents grew up (unsurprisingly) Roman Catholic. When she was 12 years old, a Protestant missionary gave her a Bible-tract (those little papers and booklets Christians sometimes pass out on the street corner). She read it, and it convinced her to some degree, and though I don’t know the full story, she converted to Protestantism. I am titling this series in Spanish to honor her. I intend for it to be an occasional column to discuss theology and culture from a Calvinist perspective–specifically mine. I hope to contribute something both thoughtful and engaging–beneficial no matter what your background might be–religious or irreligious. One of my goals in education has always been about achieving civil discourse–and while I don’t always succeed, I certainly will persevere in trying to get it right.

For the first Quinta Columna, I think it’s beneficial to address the historical significance and place of Calvinistic thought and worldview in America. Why? Well… many believe Calvinism is not very influential, that its theological ideas are not just backwards, but also culturally regressive. However, Calvinism has played an important role in American politics and culture since the earliest days of European settlement in North America. Calvinist beliefs influenced the founding of many of the original colonies and helped shape the American identity in numerous ways.

One of the most significant ways that Calvinism influenced American politics was through its emphasis on individual responsibility, hard work, and self-governance. These values are deeply rooted in the Calvinist doctrine of predestination, which holds that God has chosen some individuals for salvation and has given them the responsibility to live according to His will. This idea of individual responsibility and self-governance helped shape the political culture of early America, as colonists developed their own systems of self-government and sought to establish a society based on these values. We still see these virtues echoed by many non-Calvinists in the political and cultural sphere—typically among conservatives.

Calvinism also played a key role in the development of American religious identity. Many of the early settlers in North America were Calvinists who brought their religious beliefs with them. These beliefs emphasized the importance of education, literacy, and biblical knowledge (for both male and female), which helped establish the early American system of public education and fostered a culture of intellectual curiosity and exploration. The ideas of educating both males and females in these aspects was relatively new and begins with Calvinist influences in The West. This idea is classically liberal, and for its time, progressive. Though now, it is an idea both American liberals and conservatives can agree with.

In addition, Calvinist beliefs in the sovereignty of God and the idea of a “calling” or vocation helped shape the American work ethic and contributed to the growth of capitalism in the United States. The idea that individuals were called to a particular profession or trade, and that success in that trade was a sign of God’s favor, helped motivate Americans to work hard and strive for success. This is of course becoming more and more of a question in today’s society, where people are consistently trying to find a profession or career that’s truly meaningful and suited to them. Though the political sphere is becoming increasingly fraught with discussions about “universal incomes” and other job-related discussions, this philosophy can be instructive for many sides in understanding how others are approaching those discussions.

Finally, Calvinism has played a significant role in American politics through its influence on various social and political movements. For example, many abolitionists in the 19th century were motivated by their Calvinist beliefs and the idea that slavery was a sin against God. Similarly, the civil rights movement of the 20th century was deeply influenced by Calvinist beliefs in the importance of justice, equality, and human dignity.

Today, Calvinist ideas have gained popularity in recent years, particularly in evangelical circles—sometimes referred to as “Neo-Calvinism”. Neo-Calvinism is a movement that seeks to update and reapply Calvinist principles to modern society, emphasizing the role of Christians in shaping culture and society. Neo-Calvinists generally believe in a holistic approach to Christianity that emphasizes the integration of faith and daily life, and the importance of living out one’s faith in all areas of life, including politics, economics, and social issues. To them, there is no real motivation of keeping one’s religion private or delusion that they can arbitrarily and honestly separate their worldview from actions they take in public life.

The influence of neo-Calvinism can be seen in various aspects of American society, including the rise of Christian colleges and universities that emphasize the integration of faith and learning, the growth of Christian publishing and media that promote a Christian worldview, and the involvement of Christians in various social and political movements.

Unsurprisingly, while Calvinist and neo-Calvinist ideas continue to be present in American society, they are not without controversy or opposition. In religious spheres—particularly within Christianity itself, some criticize the emphasis on predestination and the limited role of human free will in traditional Calvinist theology, while others (usually outside of Christian faith circles) question the approach of neo-Calvinism to social and political issues.

Overall, while Calvinist ideas and neo-Calvinist ideas remain prevalent in America today, their influence is varied and contested, reflecting the diverse and complex nature of American society and culture. Hopefully, Quinta Columna Calvinista will be a useful place to expound some of these issues (on occasion).