The Five Points of Calvinism: Defined, Defended, and Documented [Paperback]

David N. Steele (Author), Curtis C. Thomas (Author), S. Lance Quinn (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 7, 2004

Binding: Trade paperback Edition: 2nd ed. Publisher: P & R Publishing Date published: 2004 ISBN-13: 9780875528274 ISBN: 0875528279

Product Details

• Paperback: 247 pages
• Publisher: P & R Publishing; 2 edition (May 7, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0875528279
• ISBN-13: 978-0875528274
• Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 0.8 x 9.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (23 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #249,248 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 23 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Bad attitude towards those of a different persuasion! December 3, 2009

By Jon Hughes

Format:Paperback

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.

12 of 14 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Finest Intoduction Available June 8, 2005

By J. Adrian

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

'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.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Becoming anchored in the TRUTH July 24, 2007

By Mary Ann Wright

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

Having been, by God's grace, regenerated 34 years ago, I happily attended church, read the Word, prayed, taught women's Bible study - and believed that I (did you read that?) chose to 'ask Jesus into my heart' and save me!
I have, during these 34 years, believed the doctrines of: free-will, dispensationalism, semi-works salvation (Baptist style). THEN, Reformation theology was presented to me. I balked, fought against it, considered it a lie. Next, I read 'The Five Points of Calvinism' and God revealed His truth through it. I have read many, many books on Reformation theology since, and NOW it is ALL so clear...God's eternal plan, why the five 'solas' described in this book are the basis for understanding God's character, His master plan. I have a two-word suggestion for you: BUY IT!