Oftentimes I am asked, "What are you reading?" Well, I wanted to start a new "category" of blog entries on that.Right now, one of the books I am presently reading is Dr. Sam Storms' book, "Chosen For Life." Friends, this is an outstanding introductory book on the controversial topic of election and predestination. If this topic is new to you, you need to read this book! If you feel like you know a lot about this topic and are firm in your convictions about it...you still need to read this book! There are many things that are impressive about it, but here are just a few:
1. Dr. Storms, does not set up "straw men" of Arminianism and then knock them down. He deals honestly and respectfully with the many nuanences that Arminian thinkers believe.
2. His demeanor is not only commendable and an example to follow, but necessary when dealing with this subject. He deals with those who hold an Arminian postion respectfully and pastorally, while unapologetically cherishing God's sovereign grace in election. As a pastor, I have looked for several years to find a book on election that would respectfully and humbly explain this topic for someone who is new to it...this is that book!
3. It is sound biblically and it will drive you back into the text of Holy Scripture, causing one to love God's word more deeply.
Listen to some of these endorsements:
"This extraordianarily clear and courteous book makes its case without stooping to caricature...It is a fine model of exactly how theological disagreements should be resolved: with respectful listening, careful distinctions, historical awareness, deep reverence for Scripture, and patient exegesis." - D.A. Carson
"This new edition of Chosen for Life has everything one could want on the topic of election. Those who agree will be heartily encouraged; those who disagree will be respectfully challenged; the hearts of all will marvel at the glorious grace of God in the gospel." - C. J. Mahaney
Highly recommend it! It will be on our resource table soon!
3 comments:
Hey Matthew. I'm reading this book right now too. I'm finding it helpful in dealing with "reformed pride" in my interactions with brothers and sisters in Christ who are Arminians. It seems to me that this topic, when viewed rightly should deepen our love for Jesus and one another. Blessings
O btw this is Mike Shuman.
Hey Mike,
Sorry for the delayed response! Thank you so very much for your comment. You are exactly right about Storms' book confronting "reformed pride." Well said. I think that is one of the greatest selling points of "Chosen For Life" is how Storms models humility on two major fronts. 1) Humility through his tone and demanor of addressing this topic, especially those who come from more of an Arminian perspective. 2) Storms' humility is also seen of how he submits himself to the text of Scripture and then pastorally leads one to the clear statements and meaning of those text. Dr. Storms has done a great service to many folks who have been looking for a book such as this.
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