John Calvin

What Is Reformed Theology?
The phrase "reformed theology" has a range of meanings and uses. It is easier to note the markings, or characteristics, of reformed theology than it is to reduce it to a single definition. For example, the Ligonier Ministries website defines reformed theology as "the systematic theology formulated by thinkers in the Reformed tradition during and after the Protestant Reformation of the sixteenth century" and then goes on to assert, "Reformed theology is simply covenant theology."

Carl Trueman, noting the confessional character of reformed theology, writes, "At a more technical level (reformed theology) refers specifically to Protestant churches that hold as confessional norms the Three Forms of Unity, the Westminster Standards, or (in the case of Reformed Baptists) the Second London Confession." On a more popular level, reformed theology is associated with the acronym, TULIP , and with the "5 Solas".

As important and as helpful as TULIP and the Solas are, these do not sufficiently span all that is captured in the phrase, "reformed theology". A brief article written by Joel Beeke and Paul Smalley helps to enlarge the coverage of reformed theology's characteristics under the heading: 10 Things You Should Know about Reformed Theology. Additionally, I invite you to plumb the depths of reformed theology by gleaning from the resources recommended within this site!