Which theological concept is John Calvin most known for?

John Calvin is most renowned for the concept of predestination, which is central to his theological framework and the development of Reformed theology. Predestination is the belief that God has already determined who will be saved and who will be damned, essentially arguing that salvation is not based on individual actions or merits but rather on God's sovereign choice. This concept emphasizes God's omniscience and authority in the salvation process, highlighting the idea that grace is given to the elect, those chosen by God to receive salvation.

This belief was a significant departure from the views held by the Catholic Church and others during Calvin's time, which tended to focus more on the individual's capacity for faith and good works as the basis for salvation. Predestination is foundational to Calvin's interpretation of Scripture and has had a lasting influence on various Protestant denominations that align with Reformed theology.

In contrast, the other choices represent theological ideas associated with different traditions and interpretations within Christianity. For example, papal infallibility is a doctrine unique to the Roman Catholic Church regarding the Pope's authority, transubstantiation refers to the Catholic belief in the bread and wine becoming the actual body and blood of Christ during the Eucharist, and justification by faith, while also important to Calvinist thought, does