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Humble Calvinism: And if I Know the Five Points, But Have Not Love ... Kindle Edition
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Author Jeff Medders admits that he is quick to defend Calvinism, but often slow to humbly love Christians who take a different view. His warm-hearted, challenging (and surprisingly witty) book takes readers through the the five points of Calvinism, revealing that a true understanding has a humbling effect on our hearts, fuelling a love of Christ and his people that builds others up, rather than tearing them down.
- LanguageEnglish
- Publication dateMarch 1, 2019
- File size1405 KB
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Editorial Reviews
Review
Maybe in another generation the term "humble Calvinism" won't seem like such an oxymoron. If so, this encouraging and challenging book will have been used by God to help us live up to what we believe. --Collin Hansen, Editorial Director, The Gospel Coalition; author, Young, Restless, and Reformed and Blind Spots
Reformed culture seems to be known for its harshness and lack of grace. Yet Reformed soteriology should create a joyful heart and a deep, glad humility that overflows into compassionate evangelism and graciousness to all. I hope Jeff's book will be used by God to renew a spirit of gentleness and humility among us, and will encourage those who have rejected these beautiful beliefs to consider them anew. --Matt Chandler, Lead Pastor, The Village Church, Dallas; President, Acts 29; author, Take Heart
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About the Author
Product details
- ASIN : B07MQWK5T9
- Publisher : The Good Book Company (March 1, 2019)
- Publication date : March 1, 2019
- Language : English
- File size : 1405 KB
- Simultaneous device usage : Unlimited
- Text-to-Speech : Enabled
- Screen Reader : Supported
- Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
- X-Ray : Enabled
- Word Wise : Enabled
- Print length : 179 pages
- Best Sellers Rank: #728,520 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #218 in Calvinist Christianity (Kindle Store)
- #467 in Calvinist Christianity (Books)
- #4,708 in Christian Theology (Kindle Store)
- Customer Reviews:
About the author
Jeff Medders is a writer, a preacher of Christ, and the Director of Theology and Content for Send Network. He’s a Ph.D. student in biblical spirituality and Charles Spurgeon at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find the book's biblical content compelling and heartwarming. They appreciate the author's clear explanation of doctrines from Scripture and the nuggets of clarity throughout the writings. The book is described as a great, enjoyable read on a much-needed topic.
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Customers find the book's biblical content convincing and uplifting. They say it teaches truths of grace found in scripture, and is a must-read for Reformed Christians and their Arminian friends.
"...of the truths of Scripture ought to compel us to love and serve others for God’s glory...." Read more
"...true believer is not in the pride of superior knowledge, but humility, grace, and Christ-likeness. This book is not an exhaustive volume...." Read more
"...Medders has created a contemplative and corrective examination what it means to ascribe to Calvinism...." Read more
"...And it’s also a convicting book for pastors like me who need to be reminded that if our understanding of Calvinism—or any other doctrine—produces in..." Read more
Customers find the book engaging and enjoyable. They say it's a great read on a needed topic. The author blends humor with theological precision to create an easy-to-understand narrative.
"...This was a really neat beginning to the book and a helpful illustration in highlighting that Christ, not Calvinism, is a believer’s means for..." Read more
"...Using a solid biblical foundation, and supporting his argument with quotes from Charles Spurgeon, John Newton, and John Calvin, the author explains..." Read more
"...In this great book, J.A. Medders takes the time to defuse the word "Calvinism" by talking about what the acronym TULIP is all about and explaining..." Read more
"...read a number of books on this topic, let me also say how enjoyable Medders made his book, which is not easy to do when explaining theology; his..." Read more
Customers find the book's doctrine accessible and thought-provoking. They appreciate the clear explanations from scripture and the author's encouragement for readers to study Scripture for themselves. The writing is concise and to the point, with a voice that is easy to understand. Overall, customers find the book convicting and practical, with common sense advice.
"...In the same chapter, he also made an excellent point regarding the Biblical notion of maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace..." Read more
"...This book is not an exhaustive volume. It is a theologically accessible, thought-provoking, and sometimes humorous look at a divisive issue...." Read more
"...Medders has created a contemplative and corrective examination what it means to ascribe to Calvinism...." Read more
"Challenging, funny at times, and beautifully written. Medders is on a mission to show us how reformed theology should produce humble people...." Read more
Customers find the book heartwarming and loving. They say it's kind and patient, calling Christians to greater love and honoring Christ. Readers describe the writing as lighthearted and humorous, keeping them engaged with its personal stories.
"...Medders tone is sympathetic, gentle, and gracious, and he uses examples from his own life that are personal, powerful, and poignant...." Read more
"...within us, transforming us into the character of Christ: humble, lowly, kind, patient, loving" (32)...." Read more
"...Highly recommend for the average person. It is also very loving and not condescending towards non-calvinist. Highly recommend." Read more
"...This book was simultaneously a balm to my soul and a shot of gospel adrenaline to my heart...." Read more
Customers find the book insightful and a worthwhile purchase. They describe it as an incredible, helpful read that drives home the understanding.
"This is a fantastic read. A winsome and gracious introduction to Calvinism and the doctrines of grace with a major emphasis on humility and..." Read more
"Practical, common sense advice. A worthwhile purchase." Read more
"Very impressed with the book, I’m starting the fourth chapter and have absolutely loved it thus far!..." Read more
"I loved this book! I am not one to dig into Theology, so I didn't really know what to expect. This book is a great intro to Calvinism!..." Read more
Customers enjoy the humor in the book. They find it an engaging read for both Calvinists and non-Calvinists, with truths being expressed in a humorous way.
"...accessible, thought-provoking, and sometimes humorous look at a divisive issue...." Read more
"...With humor, wit, and illustrations from his own life and ministry, Medders speaks honestly and openly about how people, when confronted with the..." Read more
"Challenging, funny at times, and beautifully written. Medders is on a mission to show us how reformed theology should produce humble people...." Read more
"...Seriously: the funniest theological book I’ve ever read (which admittedly is a pretty low bar, but still)...." Read more
Customers appreciate the book's design. They find it persuasive and a sweet perspective on TULIP. The cover design and subtitle intrigue them.
"...The book’s title, brilliant cover design, and subtitle intrigued me...." Read more
"...By showing the humbling, and heart-warming, realities of TULIP in all of Scripture and calling Christians to that same kind of humble charity, we..." Read more
"This is one to keep. A sweet perspective on TULIP and that it ultimately is about the One who died to save a sinner like me." Read more
"A persuasive look at how the doctrines of grace should produce people of grace...." Read more
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A Delightful and Compelling Read
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2020Humble Calvinism is the latest book by pastor, podcaster, and author J. A. Medders. I follow the book’s publisher, The Good Book Company, on Facebook which is how I initially learned of this title. The book’s title, brilliant cover design, and subtitle intrigued me. I found it interesting that there was someone else out there who also affirms the 5 points of Calvinism but is turned off by how Calvinists often convey their convictions. I purchased Humble Calvinism last summer and my copy just recently made it to the top of my To Be Read pile. My husband informed me that he needed to read it for a theology class he’s taking through our church so I decided to quickly read it before passing it along to him and I’m so glad I did!
Humble Calvinism begins with an imagined scenario in which some Christians have just arrived in heaven and are receiving a tour of it but must walk silently past one room. The new arrivals are told in a whisper that the room contains Calvinists who are unaware that believers of different convictions are also there. This was a really neat beginning to the book and a helpful illustration in highlighting that Christ, not Calvinism, is a believer’s means for salvation. Medders continues the intro by explaining that he wrote the book to demonstrate that the beauty of the truths of Scripture ought to compel us to love and serve others for God’s glory. As Christians, of all people, we should treat others the way we’ve been treated in Christ.
I appreciate that Humble Calvinism highlights the irony of holding to certain aspects of theology while sharing about them in an ungodly manner. While I do hold to the five points of Calvinism, I’ve refused to identify myself as a Calvinist (and probably still will), but this book gives me great hope.
Medders gives practical principles on how to treat brothers and sisters who believe differently. He even mentioned not making fun of them which is a disheartening but necessary reminder.
I am deeply grateful for the way in which Medders encourages readers to study Scripture for themselves and arrive at their own conclusions. In the chapter on Limited (what he refers to as Definite) Atonement, he wrote, “. . . I don’t think you should believe in Definite Atonement simply because it’s the logical outworking of predestination. Don’t believe something simply because it makes sense. You should believe it if you see it in the Scriptures. Don’t take a Calvinist’s word for it,” (pg. 100).
In the same chapter, he also made an excellent point regarding the Biblical notion of maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). On this, he wrote, “Believing in the definite nature of the atonement means we should have a definite love for the unity of all of Christ’s people. Christ’s people are Christ’s people, whether they sign off on Definite Atonement or not. Definite Atonement expands the borders of our love toward all of Christ’s redeemed sheep. Jesus unites us,” (pg. 113).
Throughout the book, Medders takes the time to highlight each of the five points in a way that is simple, biblical, and compelling. While there are many great theology books available, they are often composed in a tone that is strictly academic which inadvertently excludes many readers. Humble Calvinism makes theology accessible and appealing. Medders used a few personal anecdotes throughout the book and I often found myself laughing out loud upon reading them. What a great reminder that we as Christians ought to be the happiest of people.
One of the concluding ideas in the book is that “Calvinism is a pile of coal mined from the depths of doctrine, that sets a fire blazing in our hearts that drives us down the track toward godliness. True Calvinism helps us love God with all our minds and hearts, and love our neighbors as ourselves. If your Calvinism doesn’t do that, then check the coal; you might have a bad batch,” (pg. 157).
Humble Calvinism is a delightful and compelling read and I am pleased to give it my highest recommendation.
5.0 out of 5 stars A Delightful and Compelling ReadHumble Calvinism is the latest book by pastor, podcaster, and author J. A. Medders. I follow the book’s publisher, The Good Book Company, on Facebook which is how I initially learned of this title. The book’s title, brilliant cover design, and subtitle intrigued me. I found it interesting that there was someone else out there who also affirms the 5 points of Calvinism but is turned off by how Calvinists often convey their convictions. I purchased Humble Calvinism last summer and my copy just recently made it to the top of my To Be Read pile. My husband informed me that he needed to read it for a theology class he’s taking through our church so I decided to quickly read it before passing it along to him and I’m so glad I did!
Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2020
Humble Calvinism begins with an imagined scenario in which some Christians have just arrived in heaven and are receiving a tour of it but must walk silently past one room. The new arrivals are told in a whisper that the room contains Calvinists who are unaware that believers of different convictions are also there. This was a really neat beginning to the book and a helpful illustration in highlighting that Christ, not Calvinism, is a believer’s means for salvation. Medders continues the intro by explaining that he wrote the book to demonstrate that the beauty of the truths of Scripture ought to compel us to love and serve others for God’s glory. As Christians, of all people, we should treat others the way we’ve been treated in Christ.
I appreciate that Humble Calvinism highlights the irony of holding to certain aspects of theology while sharing about them in an ungodly manner. While I do hold to the five points of Calvinism, I’ve refused to identify myself as a Calvinist (and probably still will), but this book gives me great hope.
Medders gives practical principles on how to treat brothers and sisters who believe differently. He even mentioned not making fun of them which is a disheartening but necessary reminder.
I am deeply grateful for the way in which Medders encourages readers to study Scripture for themselves and arrive at their own conclusions. In the chapter on Limited (what he refers to as Definite) Atonement, he wrote, “. . . I don’t think you should believe in Definite Atonement simply because it’s the logical outworking of predestination. Don’t believe something simply because it makes sense. You should believe it if you see it in the Scriptures. Don’t take a Calvinist’s word for it,” (pg. 100).
In the same chapter, he also made an excellent point regarding the Biblical notion of maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). On this, he wrote, “Believing in the definite nature of the atonement means we should have a definite love for the unity of all of Christ’s people. Christ’s people are Christ’s people, whether they sign off on Definite Atonement or not. Definite Atonement expands the borders of our love toward all of Christ’s redeemed sheep. Jesus unites us,” (pg. 113).
Throughout the book, Medders takes the time to highlight each of the five points in a way that is simple, biblical, and compelling. While there are many great theology books available, they are often composed in a tone that is strictly academic which inadvertently excludes many readers. Humble Calvinism makes theology accessible and appealing. Medders used a few personal anecdotes throughout the book and I often found myself laughing out loud upon reading them. What a great reminder that we as Christians ought to be the happiest of people.
One of the concluding ideas in the book is that “Calvinism is a pile of coal mined from the depths of doctrine, that sets a fire blazing in our hearts that drives us down the track toward godliness. True Calvinism helps us love God with all our minds and hearts, and love our neighbors as ourselves. If your Calvinism doesn’t do that, then check the coal; you might have a bad batch,” (pg. 157).
Humble Calvinism is a delightful and compelling read and I am pleased to give it my highest recommendation.
Images in this review - Reviewed in the United States on August 16, 2019In his book, Humble Calvinism, J.A. Medders makes the case that Calvinist Christians should be the most gracious people on the planet. Yet, humility is sometimes not fully exhibited in certain theological circles. As a Calvinist himself, Medders explores the biblical origins of the Doctrines of Grace, explains the five points often referred to by the acronym T.U.L.I.P., and exhorts convinced Calvinists to live lives as trophies of God’s grace.
Humble Calvinism takes a brief look at the history of the Reformation before moving to a deeper examination of each of the Five Points in light of Scripture. Using a solid biblical foundation, and supporting his argument with quotes from Charles Spurgeon, John Newton, and John Calvin, the author explains that the origin of this system of theology did not come from one man for whom it is named, but from God’s Inspired Word. And furthermore, the application of these truths by a true believer is not in the pride of superior knowledge, but humility, grace, and Christ-likeness. This book is not an exhaustive volume. It is a theologically accessible, thought-provoking, and sometimes humorous look at a divisive issue. Medders tone is sympathetic, gentle, and gracious, and he uses examples from his own life that are personal, powerful, and poignant.
Humble Calvinism is an essential and timely tool for anyone on either side of the theological divide, and I highly recommend it. Humble Calvinism is not a call to follow Calvin, or any other theologian, but Christ and Christ alone.
- Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2019In my life I have encountered two main reactions to the word "Calvinism": outright rejection and abject snobbery. Those who reject the idea of Calvinism do so often because of the snobbery of those who ascribe to "TULIP". Those affirm Calvinism often look down their noses at those who deny "TULIP", thinking they are not interested in going deeper in their faith or that they are somehow less mature. It's quite a conundrum for those who indeed believe in the five "doctrines of grace" (Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace, Perseverance of the Saints) as they seek to minister and serve the Lord by trying to lead people toward maturity in Christ. It seems when the word "Calvinism" comes up, grace and humility seem to go out the window.
In this great book, J.A. Medders takes the time to defuse the word "Calvinism" by talking about what the acronym TULIP is all about and explaining how the tenets of Calvinist "theology" point toward the absolute necessity of Jesus Christ for man's salvation. With humor, wit, and illustrations from his own life and ministry, Medders speaks honestly and openly about how people, when confronted with the doctrines of grace, should embrace them as the menu, not the meal. Far too often, individuals espousing these five key biblical doctrines about salvation and grace turn them into what matters. This book turns that on its head and reminds all of us that doctrine isn't our Savior; Jesus is.
Medders has created a contemplative and corrective examination what it means to ascribe to Calvinism. What a blessing this work is and I am thoroughly convinced that any Christian will gain a deeper appreciation for the work of Jesus at the cross through reading it.
Top reviews from other countries
- The KFamReviewed in Canada on October 28, 2024
3.0 out of 5 stars Book arrived damaged.
Having previously listened to the audiobook version of the book I can say it is an interesting and entertaining read. However amazon’s shipping leaves much to be desired. Why ship a damaged book? The packaging does not appear to be damaged so the book seems most likely to have been damaged before shipment.
The KFam
Reviewed in Canada on October 28, 2024
Images in this review