The Five Points of Calvinism

'The Five Points of Calvinism...' is an excellent introductory work on 'The Doctrines of Grace" also generally referred to as 'Calvinism'. The five points of Calvinism stand together as a system of doctrine which explains God's design on how sinners are saved. In the preface to the first edition it is noted(though often overlooked)that each point constitutes a distinct and important Biblical doctrine. The first section of the book gives a brief historical sketch of Calvinism. On pages 5-8 there is a chart contrasting 'The Five Points of Arminianism' with 'the Five Points of Calvinism'. This chart is very handy and helpful because it clearly and concisely sets forth what these two systems of doctrine are teaching. Calvinistic doctrine has so often been caricatured both in print and in public discourse as well as in many pulpits. This chart fairly and accurately summarizes both schools of thought. The historical roots of Calvinistic doctrine are traced back to the controversy between Pelagius and Augustine. The differences between Calvinism and Arminianism are not insignificant or just matters of rhetoric but rather go to the heart of the gospel. On p.13 J.I.Packer is quoted on the gravity of the issues at hand, "The difference between them is not primarily one of emphasis,but of content. One proclaims a God who saves;the other speaks of a God who enables man to save himself." The second part of the book gives some of the Biblical support for each of the five points. This section is not intended to be exhaustive but serves its purpose as an introductory work that attempts to document some of the Biblical support for 'The Five Points of Calvinism'. The third part of the book gives a list with brief commentary on books that are available for further study on each of the 'Five Points' and on the Calvinistic system of doctrine as a whole. The updated and expanded edition ,which was published in 2004, is far superior as it contains a listing of many significant books that the first edition does not include because they were not yet written. Books such as R.C.Sprouls 'Chosen by God' and Richard Belchers 'A Journey in Grace'. This modern classic is perhaps the best book that someone could read to introduce them to Calvinistic theology.

This is a phenominal work filled with God's "REAL and EXEGETICAL" truth! A must read for any God fearing and truth seeking follower of Jesus Christ! This is what the enemy DOES NOT want you to know, among many other things. Any viewpoint other than that expressed in this book should be viewed as a dangerous "cancer"! Beware of false doctrine (i.e. The 5 points of Arminianism). Learn what it is and how it has been deemed a historical heretical fact as far back as the 4th century (Augustine and Pelagius). It became known as Arminianism in the 17th century, by the followers of one Jacobus Arminius. The 5 points of Calvinism were used to refute it by The Synod of Dort in 1618-19. Arminianism is and has rooted itself in many of todays churches and is the heart of their doctrine (very disturbing!). It is one of many heresies that are currently misleading unsuspecting Christians! Those that do not know history are destined to repeat its mistakes! Please be aware of this. Many pastors and priests are not even aware of this! Educate yourself and DO NOT be misled. ***See and read for yourself***. Also, I highly recommend the book, "Predestined for Heaven? Yes!" by Jeffrey W. Alexander and "Chosen By God" by R.C. Sproul. God Bless and Soli Deo Gloria!

Does the title give it away? This book is an update from the highly acclaimed book from Steele and Thomas and is great primer on what exactly Calvinism is. It is not exhaustive and was not meant to be but seems to be more a "dictionary" of sorts for reference on the 5 points. For each section it gives the defense and expalantion of the point, then gives you reference material for more reading.This book is great to keep on your book shelf to reference verses in the Bible for the different doctrines, but if you are looking for a complete defense of the doctrines of Grace you will be disapointed.The works that I especially found interesting was the appendix which went of a lot of tough questions that are posed to Calvinist based on Scripture and also those questions that are asked outside of the camp of Calvinism.In my humble opinion if you know very little on these doctrines pick up this book alongside "A Journey in Grace" and you will at least be introduced to where you should go next.

So many people have tried to tackle this subject and failed. Making things wordy and complicated. This book is well written, with detail but still manages to make it not a snoozer. Home run!

Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Everyone should read this book, but especially those interested in Christianity. The authors back up their ideas and doctrines with many Scripture passages. I intend to read it many times. If what the Calvinists say is true, then Christianity is a very grim religion. I did learn, I think, that "depraved" does not in Calvinism have the meaning that we ordinarily associate with it. It means, if I have this correctly, that we do not save ourselves, but that God saves us by His grace. This is, I think, the ordinary, orthodox, Christian belief. I recommend this book!

Very well written and informative book. Full of bible references to support its points. There is also a free study guide you can download. I have given copies to friends. The doctrines of grace can't be heard enough.

I bought this book because it was recommended on Monergism website. After quick browsing, I got dissapointed because although the five points of Calvinism are explained throughly, however I expected more discussion on each and especially dealing with their critique. Less than 1/3 of the book is a discussion of the TULIP itself, another 1/3 reviews the literature regarding the Calvinism, and the rest is filled up with essays on Calvinism. To sum up, I still think it is a good book to give to your friends, but it could have been better.

This book is a good presentation of Calvinism. The problem lies in the way Christians who take a different approach are treated. Here are some examples:Dave Hunt's debate with James White "could well go down as the most lop-sided debate in church history." (pg 90-91)Dave Hunt "neither understands true Calvinism nor correctly represents classic Arminianism." (pg 91)Dave Hunt's book is the "most egregious misrepresentation of Calvinism in print today." (pg 114)Phillip R. Johnson is quoted regarding Norman Geisler's book: "It is a stunningly inept treatment of the subject it undertakes." (pg 114)Likewise we read of "Geisler's disturbing and misleading book." (pg 114)And regarding Robert Lightner's book on the extent of the atonement: "...one can see how unconvincing Lightner is." (pg 133)The above comments seem out of place in a book that includes a chapter called A KINDER, GENTLER CALVINISM!!!Calvinism is a system. That's all. It is helpful, but it is only a system. Limited Atonement fits logically within the system, but being logical does not necessarily equate with being biblical. Robert Lightner writes the following on page 34 of his book, "The Death Christ Died":"It seems far better to say that one believes this tenet or that one as he may find agreement with it in the Bible than to imply acceptance of an entire system unless the individual is prepared to accept the whole theological structure. The desire and goal of the child of God must not be adherence to a humanly-constructed system simply for the sake of tradition or church relations. Let us be biblicists above everything else and at all costs; and when and where this position conflicts with man-made systems of theology, let it be!"That's surely good advice, whatever conclusions we may come to on this subject.

Recomendación de mi pastor que estudió en un seminario en Westminster Inglaterra, valió la pena totalmente, lo acabo en 4 días

Very good book for serious christians.