by JohnPiper (Author)
Grace is the heart of God to do you good when you deserve it least. But do we really know how deeply we don't deserve it? Only God can reveal that to us. He does it through the Bible. And when he does, the wonders of his grace explode with brightness as never before. These Five Points are about how Christians come into being, and how we are kept forever. It reaches back into times past when we were freely chosen. It reaches forward into the future when we will be safe and happy forever. It reaches down into the mysteries of the work of Christ, purchasing the gift of faith for all God's children. And it reaches into the human soul, glimpsing the mysteries of the Spirit's work as he conquers all our rebellion and makes us willing captives of King Jesus.
Piper believes that our experience of grace grows with our grasp of God's gracious work. He invites us to come with him on this quest.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 96
Edition: Revised edition
Publisher: Christian Focus
Published: 20 Sep 2013
ISBN 10: 1781912521
ISBN 13: 9781781912522
Book Overview: Summary of reformed theology
This is a great introduction to a biblical theology of the sovereignty of God in salvation. It is not simply an apologetic for the traditional five points of Calvinism but outlines the simple and nourishing doctrines from a biblical foundation. It is simple, and communicated with the same heartfelt passion that accompanies all Pipers books. There is no historical background given but the five Calvinistic doctrines are clearly explained and their implications are worked out, with each chapter making the grace of God shine brightly. It reminded me gently but convincingly why these doctrines matter greatly to Christians today. It reminded me that what is commonly called Calvinism is at the heart of the gospel for it's origin is Scripture (not Calvin).
The last two chapters (personal testimony and concluding testimonies) are a wonderful place to start reading this book, and provide motivation to read the preceding chapters.
I love this new book by John Piper. I don't know of any other brief book on this subject that so manifestly takes us down into the Scriptures and then so wonderfully lifts us up to see the glory of God. Many people will be encouraged, and not a few will have their faith jolted in the best way possible.
-- Kevin DeYoung... buzzing with sound doctrine. This book is short, readable and highly recommended.
-- The Monthly Record- Free Church of Scotland MagazineImagine being able to chat over a meal with John Piper about the five points of Calvinism. That's pretty much what you get in this book: a clear statement of these life-changing truths delivered with warm pastoral sensitivity in a conversational style. You won't find yourself being browbeaten. Instead, you'll find yourself invited to marvel at God's wonderful grace. The only thing missing is the meal.