Not a Petal Left Unturned. Decimates Calvinism....
Smith does a thorough and well researched job of approaching the tenets of Calvinism. He first establishes and defines the "5 Points" of the systematic theology - to the point that no true Reformed theologian would object to. Then Smith begins to hermeneutically and logically tear down the inconsistencies found with the system of Calvinism. One of the most interesting approaches he uses is the comparison Calvinism has with that of Darwinian Evolution. Smith shows that many of the logical "gaps" that are required by the proponents of evolution and how strikingly similar they are to the logical "gaps' one must make with Calvinism. Smith essentially decimates the entire system of Calvinism through both scripture and the use of easy to understand reason and logic. Smith essentially shows us that Calvinism was a system that ended up overemphasizing (either intentional or unintentional) God's Sovereignty in order to counter the then heavily salvation through works as promoted by the Catholic church. The only problem was in overemphasizing God's Sovereignty, reformers ended up boxing God in to the point of logical absurdity and a God that is never demonstrated in scripture. In regards to sin, Smith again attacks the "T" in Calvinism's TULIP by comparing it to that of what is consistently shown in the scriptures and the logical absurdities regarding Original Sin. This book is heavily footnoted and has an abundance of references. Smith not only uses reason and logic to breakdown Calvinism, but more importantly uses plenty of scripture to support his position.
Destroys Calvinism!
Well written, well documented book that thoroughly destroys Calvinism. The question is will Calvinists put aside their bad hermeneutics, their unBiblical definitions of words found in the Bible and their Augustinian presuppositions and see the truth? I pray they will. For some more good doctrine, check out www.LibraryOfTheology.com
Calvinism Beware, You will Question This System
I have read every doctrinal book by F. Lagard Smith. The last book on the afterlife was not as strong as some of his past books in my estimation. But this book was interesting and helpful in countering Calvinism. During the Restoration Movement, there was significant interaction with the doctrine of Calvinism, but with modern times the discuss has slowed significantly. Probably, few members of the church would have a deep understanding of this doctrinal system, but Calvinism has a huge influence on the general Christian culture in America. The book dives into all the major tenets of the Calvinistic system of the TULIP. This book might be difficult for some who have no background in the doctrine of Calvinism, but for those who are generally aware of the issues, this book is an enjoyable read. I did some significant study in the nature of the fall of man, and I was happy to see that mostly Smith and I agree on the nature of man. After reading the book, one would be hard pressed to maintain a Calvinistic view of the Bible as well as the world. This book will help us with our religious friends as well as suppress some Calvinistic influences within the church.
