Arminius, Jacobus

He was a Dutch pastor and theologian who lived 1560-1609. His theological views (known as Arminianism) were developed soon after the Protestant reformation attributed to Martin Luther and were counter-arguments against those of his contemporary John Calvin. The main point of contention involved the degree of God’s sovereignty (control) and human freewill in the salvation of sinners.

He is quoted as saying: ‘It is very plain, from the Scriptures, that repentance and faith cannot be exercised except by the gift of God’.

See also: Calvin (John), Calvinism and Arminianism, influential Christians, Luther (Martin), reformation.