a. and sb. [f. Arminius, Latinized form of the surname Harmensen.]
A. adj. Of, belonging to, or following the doctrine of, Jacobus Arminius or Harmensen, a Dutch Protestant theologian, who put forth views opposed to those of Calvin, especially on predestination. Arminius died in 1609; in 1618–9 his doctrines were condemned by the synod of Dort; but they spread rapidly, and were embraced, in whole or part, by large sections of the Reformed Churches.
1618. trans. Barneveld’s Apol., H. The point in question is not concerning the Arminian Religion, but Romish Poperie.
1674. Hickman, Hist. Quinquart., 133. Before Bishop Laud ruled … those who embraced the Opinions since called Arminian, were indeed out of the way to preferment.
1853. Marsden, Early Puritans, 99. The Calvinistic and Arminian controversy.
B. sb. An adherent of the doctrine of Arminius.
1618. trans. Barneveld’s Apol., D. Winbergen is principall of the Perfectists, and you of the Arminians.
1673. Milton, True Relig., 7. The Arminian … is condemn’d for setting up free will against free grace.
c. 1760. Wesley, Wks., 1872, X. 360. The Arminians believe, it [predestination] is conditional; the Calvinists, that it is absolute.
1834. Penny Cycl., II. 365. The Wesleyan Methodists call themselves Arminians, and their Magazine appeared formerly under the title of the Arminian Magazine.
