Canons of Dordt, Head III: Fallen man’s total depravity
Nathan Decker provides an in-depth analysis of the third and fourth heads of the Canons of Dordt, focusing on the doctrine of total depravity and its theological relationship to irresistible grace. The article explains why these two doctrines are treated together in the Canons and clarifies their connection through contrast with Arminian error, making it essential reading for understanding the "T" and "I" of the Reformed TULIP acronym.
The title of the third and fourth heads of doctrine in the Canons of Dordt is "Of the Corruption of Man, His Conversion to God, and the Manner Thereof." In the familiar acronym used to summarize the five main doctrines treated in the Canons, "TULIP," the third and fourth heads explain the "T," total depravity, and the "I," irresistible grace. This article will cover the first part of these heads, treating the subject of fallen man's total depravity (Arts. 1-5; rejection of errors, Arts. 1-5)....
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org