The problem with the Calvinism vs. Arminianism debate, other than the fact both views are effectively inventions of the men whose names they bear, is that both of them emphasise that which ought not be emphasised, and devalue that which ought not be devalued. While Calvinism emphasises the sovereignty of God, to the point of diminishing the responsibility of man, Arminianism emphasises the responsibility of man, diminishing the sovereignty of God.
In the header image, I have juxtaposed two verses that illustrate the problem. Namely, I have selected Romans 9:19, and Luke 7:30. Romans 9 is very popular among Calvinists, who insist that it very strongly supports their view, and here we have it strongly suggested that no one can resist the will of God. And indeed, this would be a very awkward thing for an Arminian to deny. To resist God's will implies one is stronger than God!
That is, unless He permits such a thing to happen. Luke 7:30 is an example of a time when He did just that. Did God will that the Pharisees and lawyers be baptised? Yes He did. Did they resist this part of God's will? Yes, they did. Thus, while an Arminian must reject God's sovereignty even in salvation, a Calvinist must reject man's responsibility in salvation.
Although I am sympathetic towards Calvinism, there are just far too many scriptures it fails to adequately explain. I've seen Calvinists outright edit scripture in an attempt to bring the "inconvenient" passages in line with the doctrines of TULIP. Likewise, I have seen Arminians flat out deny certain scriptures, telling me I am twisting scripture, yet providing no alternative interpretations. I'm not even talking about lazy attempts to reinterpret it, I mean in spite of being pressed multiple times, they gave none and simply returned to asserting that I am wrong.
This issue need not be so divisive, and we certainly shouldn't be attacking each other as if we are heretics. The truth is, the scriptures describe both God's sovereignty in salvation and man's responsibility. To emphasise one where it is not emphasised is to add to the word of God, and to diminish one where it is not diminished is to take from it. If we are to function as a Church, we need to stop with these silly "isms", and just let scripture speak. When it does, obey.