Syncretism

Syncretism, a term derived from the habit attributed to the ancient Cretans of fighting fiercely amongst themselves, but combining resolutely against common external enemies, came to be used of theological compromise—between Catholics and Protestants, between Lutherans and Reformed. But the great syncretistic controversy was within the pale of the Lutheran Church, syncretism being applied by the High Lutheran party headed by Calovius to the principles of Calixtus and his school. Calixtus and the university of Helmstädt were held so far from Lutheran orthodoxy in the direction of the Calvinist theology as to be little better, or even rather worse, than the Reformed leaders themselves. The bitterness and rancour of the controversy were incredible, and were maintained with short truces till the death of Calovius (q.v.). See also CALIXTUS.