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 is the subject of much criticism, which he examines in his doctrine. In this article, I will argue that Calvin's doctrine of election is not infallible, based on a few common criticisms, which are addressed in his doctrine, but leave room for other criticisms, while also attracting l attention to the strong points of Calvin's doctrine. is best explained by the acronym TULIP, which is often called the five points of Calvinism. Tulip represents: total depravity, man's incapacity to choose the Truth; unconditional election, God selects 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 rests largely on foreknowledge, he frankly states that "eternal life is foreordained for some, eternal damnation for others" (p. 309 ). Calvin derives his authority from Scripture, particularly through the election of Israel and the election of individuals like Abraham and some of his descendants (pp. 309-311). In this section of Calvin's doctrine, he explains how God deliberately chose Israel, the nation, and other individuals as his elect. Therefore, the unconditional election, the decision to condemn or save was made by God before creation. Because this decision was made in advance, it indicates that nothing... middle of paper...... salvation. Here Calvin aims to portray God as extremely merciful to save anyone, because the honest truth is that all deserve a final death, not salvation. Many reject Calvin's doctrine based on personal experience or their 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 it presents God as subjective and unjust. Nevertheless, Calvinism is still a widespread practice today that has its roots in the Protestant Reformation. Works Cited 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 Christian religion. Np: np, 1960. N. pag. Print.