What is TULIP?

In April of last year, R. Scott Clark wrote a very helpful (and short) article concerning the historical background of one of the most important documents in church history, the “Canons of Dordt”. This article is only recently available online.

In response to five complaints about Reformed theology, members of the Synod of Dordt met in 1618 to respond to each complaint one-by-one. The result of their work was five statements, or “canons,” or rules. These became boiled-down to five topics abbreviated as TULIP (although to correctly follow the document, it should by ULTIP):

T = Total depravity
U = Unconditional election
L = Limited (or “definite”) atonement
I = Irresistible grace
P = Perseverance of the saints

Many assume that these represent the sum total of Reformed theology when, in fact, the Canons are dealing specifically with soteriology (the teaching on salvation). However, the critical teaching contained in the Canons of Dordt is not to be missed. Scott says,

The canons are more than five letters. The canons teach a pastoral doctrine of grace and provide a model for the stewardship of the Gospel. . . The synod’s response was careful, pastoral, and firm. The synod concluded that it does not help piety or assurance to make our salvation depend on anything in us. The Gospel is Christ for us. The Canons of Dordt are an inheritance to be treasured, but they are also to be used in our congregations, in our catechism classes, and as an example of how to respond to challenges.

Another summary is by James Montgomery Boice called, “Reformed Theology”, but what is unique about Scott’s article is the historical background.