Publisher's Synopsis
Historian of Christianity Ken Stewart is intent on setting the record straight about Reformed theology. He identifies ten myths held by either or both Calvinists and non-Calvinists and shows how they are gross mischaracterizations of that theological stream. Certain of these persistent stereotypes that defy historical research often present a truncated view of the depth and breadth of the Reformed tradition. Others, although erroneous, are nevertheless used to dismiss outright this rich body of biblical theological teaching. Some key questions Stewart explores in this provocative, informative and thoroughly researched book: * Is the role reserved for John Calvin possibly exaggerated? * Are there improper, as well as proper uses of the doctrine of predestination? * To what extent is the popular acronym, T.U.L.I.P. a helpful device, and to what extent is it detrimental in encapsulating key doctrines? * Should the Calvinist position towards movements of spiritual renewal be one of support, or one of suspicion? * Didn't Calvinism more or less 'bring up the rear' in advancing the cause of world mission? * Doesn't the Calvinist approach to Christianity encourage the belief that the redeemed will be saved irrespective of their conduct? * Doesn't the Calvinist track-record show an at-best mixed legacy on critical issues such as race and gender relations? * Hasn't the Calvinist concept of the church's role vis-Ã -vis the state tended toward theocracy? * Isn't it true that Calvinistic expressions of Christianity have been a damper on the creative arts, whether the theater or painting or sculpture? Commendations: "Perhaps no movement in Christian history has suffered more from both its detractors and its admirers than Calvinism. In this book, Kenneth Stewart shatters ten persistent stereotypes about the Calvinist way of being a Christian and helps us to see why the Reformed faith continues to attract so many believers to the God of John Calvin."Timothy George, founding dean of Beeson Divinity School of Samford University "With the growing resurgence of interest in Calvinism, Ken Stewart's deft discussion of the myths promoted by and against Calvinists is timely indeed. Sympathetic to this school of thought, though also deeply desirous of historical accuracy, this book will inform--and challenge--both friend and foe of the Calvinist vision." Dr. Michael A. G. Haykin, professor of church history and biblical spirituality, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary "Ken Stewart's book appears at a timely moment, when Calvinism is again in vogue. Drawing on both theological and historical evidence, Ken Stewart shows that Calvinism was not the narrow, exclusive preserve of a bunch of cranks but an outward-looking, mission-orientated, vibrant and this-worldly faith. May it do its part to clear away many of the misconceptions that have bedeviled Calvinism over the years!" Dr. David Ceri Jones, Aberystwyth University, Wales
