The PCA holds to the five points of Calvinism (TULIP): Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints. Salvation is understood as monergistic—God alone efficaciously calls sinners to faith through irresistible grace.

Justification is by faith alone, appropriating the imputed righteousness of Christ. Sanctification follows as a progressive work of the Holy Spirit. The order of salvation (ordo salutis) follows the Westminster Confession structure: election, effectual calling, regeneration, faith and repentance, justification, adoption, sanctification, and glorification.

The PCA teaches that Christ's atonement was designed to be effectual for the elect only (limited atonement), though it is sufficient for all. This emphasis on divine sovereignty in salvation reflects the distinctive Reformed Protestant heritage.