40 Questions About Calvinism

In 40 Questions About Calvinism, church historian Shawn Wright tackles many issues about the theological system known as Calvinism. Taking an irenic approach, Wright explains the key doctrines while also contrasting them with Arminianism. The accessible format allows readers to easily look up topics they're most interested in, including: What is the difference between Calvinism and the Reformed tradition? Does God love all people? What is predestination? Did Jesus die for the sins of the whole world? Can people resist the Holy Spirit? Do Calvinists practice evangelism and missions?For Calvinists or those seeking to understand Calvinism better, 40 Questions About Calvinism helps readers understand the key terms, issues, and debates of this highly influential theological viewpoint.Review"Professor Shawn Wright has given us a good, reliable, readable, basic introduction to Calvinism, and some of the main questions that surround it. If you are a non-Calvinist seeking answers about Calvinism, you will find in this little book a clear and winsome presentation of the position, as well as a response to some key criticisms. If you are a Calvinist looking for a model of how to talk about these things with non-Calvinists, then you will find here a helpful and humble model for explaining the Calvinist position, and its points of disagreement with Arminianism, in a fair-minded, even-handed way. If you are seeking something that will help you to understand, summarize and explain these issues, you will find this book a welcome addition to your library. The biblical doctrines discussed in this book matter. They matter for our understanding of who God is, what he is like and what he has graciously done, and consequently for our humility, assurance, joy, worship and witness. So read and be edified, and give all the glory to God." -- Ligon Duncan, Chancellor/CEO and Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary Published On: 2018-12-13"Shawn Wright’s book on Calvinism is biblically rooted, theologically astute, historically informed, and pastorally shaped. Wright lucidly explains the tenets of Calvinism, answers common misconceptions about it, and refutes objections to Calvinist soteriology. Wright’s book is the first book I would give to anyone with questions about Calvinism, for a pastoral, warm-hearted love for the gospel, missions, and holiness pervades this work. I recommend this work enthusiastically." -- Thomas R. Schreiner, Professor and Associate Dean, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Published On: 2018-12-13"How we make the greatness of God central in our thought and in how we see ourselves and our world is at the very heart of biblically shaped faith. Over the ages, Calvinists have pondered these matters very deeply. In this book, Wright explains what Calvinism stands for. It is a book that is informed and informative. It is lucid and forthright. And even when engaging ideas in conflict with Calvinistic beliefs it is fair and even gentle. It is a very commendable study." -- David F. Wells, Distinguished Senior Research Professor, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary Published On: 2018-12-03"One of the most striking features of the writings of the Apostle Paul is his willingness to raise the most strenuous questions against his doctrine, and then to answer those questions fully and powerfully. This follows the same pattern seen perfectly in our Lord Jesus Christ, who took on all comers and answered their deepest questions. The same spirit of courageous truth-telling fills Shawn Wright’s excellent volume, 40 Questions About Calvinism. The questions raised are comprehensive and well-organized, and each one is addressed with a wonderful balance of thoroughness and clarity. This volume will prove a helpful tool to all people seeking to understand Calvinism, and, more importantly, biblical doctrine concerning God’s sovereign actions in saving sinners." -- Andy Davis, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church