Why I Am Not a Calvinist

What's wrong with Calvinism? Since the Reformation, Calvinism has dominated much of evangelical thought. It has been so well established that many Christians simply assume it to be the truest expression of Christian doctrine. But Calvinism has some serious biblical and theological weaknesses that unsettle laypeople, pastors and scholars alike. God is sovereign. All evangelical Christians--whether Arminians or Calvinists--have no doubt about this fundamental truth. But how does God express his sovereignty? Is God a master puppeteer, pulling our strings? Or has he graciously given his children freedom to respond to his love? In this eminently readable book, Jerry L. Walls and Joseph R. Dongell explore the flaws of Calvinist theology. Why I Am Not a Calvinist is a must-read for all who struggle with the limitations of this dominant perspective within evangelical theology. "The biblical, theological and rational case against Calvinism has never been stated more clearly, concisely, irenically or convincingly." (Roger E. Olson, Professor of Theology, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University) CONTENTS Acknowledgments................... 6 Introduction...................... 7 1APPROACHING THE BIBLE............... 21 2ENGAGING THE BIBLE................. 44 3CALVINISM AND THE NATURE OF HUMAN FREEDOM.. 96 4CALVINISM AND DIVINE SOVEREIGNTY ........ 119 5CALVINISM AND CONSISTENCY ............ 153 6CALVINISM AND THE CHRISTIAN LIFE......... 186 Conclusion....................... 216 Names Index...................... 222 Subject Index ..................... 225 Scripture Index .................... 229