The main fault I find with Calvinism is the constant wrangling about small words, and rigid adherence to doctrines that, while they may be technically accurate, are presented in such a high-handed and condescending way as to make them repugnant to the average listener.
But do you level the same charge against the Gospel?
But do you level the same charge against the Gospel?
No, because the Gospel is simple, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved (Acts.16:31), nothing complicated about that!
No, not necessarily. Apples and Oranges, my friend. The Gospel can be presented in many ways, some of which I'm sure you would object to, but as long as the core truth is presented, that Man is a sinner in need of salvation, and Christ is the Savior who offers that salvation, the Gospel will produce results in those to whom it is given, and to the rest, it will be foolishness. That's as it is, and as it should be.
Actually, your question is a trick question which you intend to use as a straw man to negate my comments. I see it for what it is. Calvinism is not the Gospel, my friend; It is a doctrinal stand ABOUT the Gospel and the God behind it, but it is NOT the Gospel. As such, it is appropriate for teaching and equipping believers, but wholly unsuited to be a primary means of presentation of the Gospel to the unsaved. It needlessly complicates what should be a simple Gospel. You don't have to know what TULIP means to be saved.