For a Calvinist, performance plays a large part in helping him to know whether or not he is among that select group. Sure, a Calvinist might say as Coppes insists that "God's answer to doubt...the only proper fount of assurance of salvation...of getting to heaven (glorification) is the doctrine of predestination." But how does the Calvinist know he is one of the elect who have been predestined?

Zane C. Hodges points out that "The result of this theology is disastrous. Since according to Puritan belief, the genuineness of a man's faith can only be determined by the life that follows it, assurance of salvation becomes impossible at the moment of conversion." And, one might add, at any time thereafter as well, if one's life ever fails to meet the Biblical standard.

Piper and his staff write, "[W]e must also own up to the fact that our final salvation is made contingent upon the subsequent obedience which comes from faith." Small comfort is my ability to obey! Indeed, the fifth point is called perseverance of the saints, putting the burden on me. No wonder, then, as R. T. Kendall has commented, that "nearly all of the Puritan 'divines' went through great doubt and despair on their deathbeds as they realized their lives did not give perfect evidence that they were elect." This is a salvation by works, thus they were not regenerated.

Arminius, on the other hand, contrary to false label attached to him by his enemies, had perfect assurance. He confidently declared that the believer can "depart out of this life...to appear before the throne of grace, without anxious fear...."