The Resurgence of "Calvinism"
Oh boy! Is Calvinism getting attention. And not just because it's the 500th birthday of John Calvin on July 10th of 2009, but because it is making a resurgence. In fact, so much so that Time Magazine declared Calvinism to be the third most influential trend coming up in 2009.
Calvinism, or Reformed Theology, or "the doctrines of grace," tends to be a polarizing idea. For those who know of the doctrine, it is either fervently embraced or vehemently rejected. In fact, the idea of predestination and its accompanying doctrine of election were at the heart of the Reformation - not just for John Calvin, but also for Martin Luther. Luther said his most cherished work was "Bondage of the Will," a treatise on the sovereignty of God in salvation.
This summer, expect multiple stories and much talk about Calvin and Reformed theology. All the experts will line up to toss in their two cents worth. I'm no expert, but as a humble disciple of Calvin, Luther, Augustine, Paul, ultimately Jesus, I must voice my understanding with the rest. My unique perspective is as a layman. I do not have the luxury of expert opinion. Therefore my book, "God's Choice, A Layman's Perspective on Election and Predestination," centers primarily on Scripture.
As the others opine, I commend my book to you. The average layman should be able to calmly learn and evaluate this doctrine in the light of Scripture. Come see. You may just be amazed at what you find!
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