Customer Reviews

Foundations of Wesleyan-Arminian Theology

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This book offers a concise and well stated differentiation between Arminian (and Wesleyan) theological roots against Calvinist theology. The primary focus is on the historical contexts that led to the divergence of these two branches of Christian theology. As a primer, this is an excellent tool.

Those who don't like Mildred Wynkoop's "Foundations of Wesleyan-Arminian Theology" (1967 and 1972 paperback) would do well to reconsider her brief but poignant work. This small book (only 128 pages total, two of which are an extended bibliography) firmly defines the differences between contemporary Arminianism and Calvinism. It is a one of a kind teacher for the Free Will-Predestination debate.

Beginning from a theological base Wynkoop accurately presents these late 16th century doctrinal movements. She explains that neither side understood the other to be biblically based. Considering the prominent followers of the initial Jacob Arminius and John Calvin (Eipscopus and Beza) she says that those students changed the original perspectives of their teachers. Debate, often turning murderous in the late Reformation period, began which continues into the current day.

With brilliant clarity the author describes the Synod of Dort's adoption of the Calvinists' "Answer" to Armininism and its heretical declaration for the Remonstrants (Arminius' followers). This book suggests that today's Prevenient Grace-Irresistible Grace debate took root from that 1619 decision. By the end Wynkoop traces the debate's influence on John Wesley and many modern Wesleyans (Wesleyans tend to follow Wesley's Arminian lead).

This enterprising book is a must read for all who have ever considered the Arminian-Calvinist controversy. If you are a member of the debate you will be informed with Wynkoop's Wesleyan perspective. If you are new to the quarrel she will teach you. This book is a quick read and will prove to be a valueable quick reference for all Free Will-Unconditional Election debate students. It is very recommendable.

This short introduction to Wesleyan Theology is an easy, and fun read as far as theology goes. The scope of the debate is is a brief statement of the historical developement of the theology, and a definition of its basic points. Therefore it is not a defensive work which will pit it against competing theologies. Other works dedicated to that purpose are more than sufficient for that.

I would recommend this for a good group study course, but it will not go beyond the surface.

In a polite and matter of fact way, the author explains the differences between Calvinism and Wesleyan Arminianism. There is no name calling or insulting of those who hold the Calvinist view, only the clear, biblical, reason why it doesn't make scriptural sense. For further confirmation I would suggest one also read "Life In The Son" by Robert Foster.

I like the overall treatment because it covers a lot of ground fairly succinctly. Not a gripping best selling novel mind you, but it does what it needs to. In some of the later chapters her organization gets a little harder to follow, but overall a good work if you are wanting to have a solid grasp of the essentials.

I've read very little that has been convincing against Calvinism. This book is merely history, very little biblical thought. It's interesting though! I suggest if you're looking for a good debate find one on the net, not this book!