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29th out of 301 books
—
268 voters
Chosen by God
by
R.C. Sproul (Goodreads Author)
With nearly 200,000 copies sold in its 25 years, "Chosen by God" by Dr. R. C. Sproul is a contemporary classic on predestination, a doctrine that isn't just for Calvinists, says Sproul. It is a doctrine for "all" biblical Christians. In this updated and expanded edition of "Chosen by God," Sproul shows that the doctrine of predestination doesn't create a whimsical or spite...more
Paperback, 216 pages
Published
September 21st 1994
by Tyndale House Publishers
(first published October 1st 1986)
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There are a few questions you must settle in your mind to determine whether what is written in this book is true.
1. Is God all powerful, all knowing, and does He have the right to execute His Will at all times and in all situations?
2. Do you love Him, esteem Him, and desire Him to the point where you are willing to submit your life to Him, but also your will, your understanding, and your sense of right and wrong in exchange for His?
3. Are you willing to be content and at peace when God decrees s...more
1. Is God all powerful, all knowing, and does He have the right to execute His Will at all times and in all situations?
2. Do you love Him, esteem Him, and desire Him to the point where you are willing to submit your life to Him, but also your will, your understanding, and your sense of right and wrong in exchange for His?
3. Are you willing to be content and at peace when God decrees s...more
This is one of the few truly life-altering books I've ever read. It (along with scripture, some great sermons, and the Holy Spirit, of course) completely changed the way I think about God, not only in salvation, but in all things.
When I started this book I had recently joined a reformed church and was really reluctant to affirm their doctrines on the sovereignty of God in salvation. As a future missionary I saw reformed theology as a cop-out for people who didn't want to share the gospel with o...more
When I started this book I had recently joined a reformed church and was really reluctant to affirm their doctrines on the sovereignty of God in salvation. As a future missionary I saw reformed theology as a cop-out for people who didn't want to share the gospel with o...more
Dr. R.C. Sproul was my pastor for about ten years, and this is my favorite of the dozens of books he has published. My company (Greatsite.com - The Bible Museum) has displayed our rare Bibles at Dr. Sproul's Ligonier Ministries Conferences in Orlando and in Phoenix, and our facsimile reproductions of rare Bibles have been featured in Dr. Sproul's Ligonier Ministries Resource Catalogue as well.
In his book, Chosen By God, Dr. Sproul puts forth the best argument for a Calvinistic interpretation of...more
In his book, Chosen By God, Dr. Sproul puts forth the best argument for a Calvinistic interpretation of...more
I was wondering if I actually needed to read this book, as I have already read other R C books and was familiar with the arguments. Needless to say, this book refreshed a few things I forgot. It is more philosophical than biblical, although the Scripture is there. Although short in size, it is not necessarily an easy read. Sproul does something in this book that I have not seen him do elsewhere: he uses diagrams. A few are:
Justice/Non-justice Mercy
and then there is the not able not to sin diagra...more
Justice/Non-justice Mercy
and then there is the not able not to sin diagra...more
Far be it from me to give good reviews to a book that argues for Calvinism, but this book really is excellent for a number of reasons.
First of all, it lacks the heat and vitriol and outrageous (at times even slanderous) statements that a lot of books that argue for the reformed view are unfortunately known for. Even if you don't end up agreeing with him, you don't feel on the defensive the way you would after reading something by James White or Robert Morey. The tone is very much like this: "Thi...more
First of all, it lacks the heat and vitriol and outrageous (at times even slanderous) statements that a lot of books that argue for the reformed view are unfortunately known for. Even if you don't end up agreeing with him, you don't feel on the defensive the way you would after reading something by James White or Robert Morey. The tone is very much like this: "Thi...more
Dr. R.C. Sproul's Chosen By God is an incredible presentation of the Reformed view of sovereign predestination. Reformed theology is built on the biblical understanding of man's depravity; a depravity that extends to the totality of his being. Those skeptical of Calvinism's understanding of predestination; those who believe it presents God as unloving need to take the time to mull over Dr. Sproul's words. An understanding of God's utter holiness, man's total depravity, and God's grace, justice,...more
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Read this back in 2009 when I first embraced the Doctrines of Grace. I found it to be more helpful this time around as I have had several years to absorb many of the arguments and implications of this position. "Chosen By God" is praiseworthy for its readability. Sproul has an easily identifiable reading style with his short, pithy sentences. Additionally he is able to concisely explain difficult philosophical ideas with clarity. His treatment on the compatibility of free will and divine soverei...more
This book has been used to really open my eyes to understanding the Sovereignty of God, and answered so many questions for me on the subject of "chosen" and "predestination". This is likely in my top 10 books of all time in changing my life. When I read it, I took my time and took notes added comments, etc., I didn't just read this book I studied it!!!
Most clear, relevant presentation of the doctrine of predestination I've read. I just finished the book for the second time, and while I am more familiar with the concepts therein that I had been the first time, I believe I may have gotten more out of it this time. Sproul is passionate with a love for God and his truth. The book is rich with a high respect for God, his character, and his plan. While I deviate slightly from the perspectives of Sproul on the issue of free will (he being a compatib...more
Once, I had a dinner with some of my good friends. We were having a wonderful chat. Eventually, the topic centered on predestination. What a topic after a good meal! I don’t exactly remember how we got to that topic. But you know what’s next, right? Passionate discussion, if not debate.
My friends and I had different views of predestination, and each one kept pushing for his own view. But the problem is: None of us really know what we’re talking about!
Finally, I read a copy of R.C. Sproul’s Chose...more
My friends and I had different views of predestination, and each one kept pushing for his own view. But the problem is: None of us really know what we’re talking about!
Finally, I read a copy of R.C. Sproul’s Chose...more
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Sproul is a logical thinker, which I very much appreciate. God is a God of order, not of chaos. Though Sproul's argument is largely philosophical, his thoughts are rooted in Scripture. He uses "if/then" logic to pull everything together. Though sometimes you have to be careful with such logic, in this case, Sproul shows that there can be contradictions in God. His presentation of the doctrines of grace is thought provoking and sound. Any logical thinker will quick...more
Enjoyed the lively argument but took issue with several key points.
True freedom must include the freedom/capacity to obey.
It is not clear to me how we should expect that the infinite Father God has given us commands that exceed our capacity to obey.
In Calvinism, it seems you are free to choose A or B, but A is not possible. If this is the meaning of free will, I think that I am not a Calvinist.
Is God big enough to offer Himself to those He knows will reject Him? God is not obliged to love all h...more
True freedom must include the freedom/capacity to obey.
It is not clear to me how we should expect that the infinite Father God has given us commands that exceed our capacity to obey.
In Calvinism, it seems you are free to choose A or B, but A is not possible. If this is the meaning of free will, I think that I am not a Calvinist.
Is God big enough to offer Himself to those He knows will reject Him? God is not obliged to love all h...more
This is a great resource along side the word of God. We are chosen by God (Predestination) which is such important doctrine of the Christian life. RC Sproul is a great teacher and writer. I always get a great meal of meat and potatoes with chocolate cake and ice cream. He is very thorough with his teaching. He himself had trouble with this doctrine and explains why. Myself I always had trouble understanding this truth. Does it mean that God is not a God of love?! It is because of his mercy and j...more
Sproul makes very compelling arguments for traditional 5-point Calvinism in this book. He also addresses the Arminian arguments on the same doctrinal points. Some of the chapters were confusing and his logic was difficult to follow but overall I believe this is a great book that provides good defenses to Calvinist principles. I wish he had spent more time on Limited Atonement and provided a more concise argument of Double Predestination.
He asks the right questions, gives sound and understandable answers, and agrees that not all of the answers can offer something satisfying to us, because not all things are given to us to understand. He states what he will "give" to other camps, and yet concludes with good reasons why Reformed thinking is biblical in his view. A must read for anyone wanting to understand and defend TULIP.
This book was a life-changer. It was the book that slammed the door on my pretentions that men chose God, rather than Him choosing us. It explains the sovereignty of God in salvation better than any book I know of. I'm sure there are longer and more thorough books on the subject, but this is the best I know of to get into your soul and shake things up.
RC Sproul has this amazing skill of taking complex doctrine and explaining it so the layman can understand it. Perhaps it just goes to show how much he knows theology. This is a great book to read if you're hoping to understand the doctrine of predestination, though it covers a lot of other doctrines that one must understand as well.
I gave this four stars, because I agree with 4/5 of it.
After reading more about this, the only thing I don't agree with Calvinism (at least, majorly) is: they believe Christ did not die for all. Only the elect. The elect being the 'Chosen'.
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ di...more
After reading more about this, the only thing I don't agree with Calvinism (at least, majorly) is: they believe Christ did not die for all. Only the elect. The elect being the 'Chosen'.
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ di...more
This book is a thorough introduction to the Reformed doctrine of predestination in Christianity.
Sample quote: "Let me close this book by mentioning that soon after I awoke to the truth of predestination I began to see the beauty of it and taste its sweetness. I have grown to love this doctrine."
Sample quote: "Let me close this book by mentioning that soon after I awoke to the truth of predestination I began to see the beauty of it and taste its sweetness. I have grown to love this doctrine."
Dr Sproul does a great job of explaining from scripture, history and from the great minds of the church the great doctrine of Predestination as held buy the Presbyterian and Reformed churches. If you want to understand this doctrine, this book is a good starting point.
This book was better than I thought it would be. I'll have to go back and read again since so much of it is deep and not a casual read. It really got me to thinking about my stance on predestination. I recommend this to anyone who has never done a detailed study of it.
It would be hard to think of a better introduction to predestination than this book, especially for someone coming from outside Reformed Christianity. At its best, the book shows that predestination, election, and associated doctrines are not mere philosophical discussions, but have critical implications for the Christian life.
I read this book because I grew up Methodist and wanted to read an explanation of predestination that didn't come attached with Arminian bias. "Chosen By God" did a good job of explaining the ins and outs of the Reformed views of divine election. I'll have to say that it didn't convince me of predestination, but I definitely understand the doctrine much better.
Sproul writes in a characteristic dense, intellectual tone. It is pretty difficult to sift through at times. With that said, the book mak...more
Sproul writes in a characteristic dense, intellectual tone. It is pretty difficult to sift through at times. With that said, the book mak...more
May 02, 2010
Clarissa
added it
I enjoy listening to R.C. teach and reading this book was just like sitting in a classroom with him. He gives a very fair presentation of election and predestination. Clear, concise, and presenting opposing views with love and honesty. I enjoyed reading it.
Jun 20, 2012
Joshua Mckeown
is currently reading it
Completely disagree with the theology in this book. I'm actually reading it for school. I will say that it is well written and very detailed. So I am enjoying hearing the other side of the predestination/free will debate even if I disagree with his stance.
Settled the matter for me.
"Being certain of this very thing: that He who began a good work in you will [HIMSELF!!!] perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6
"T'was grace that taught me how to fear,
And grace my fears relieved....."
"Being certain of this very thing: that He who began a good work in you will [HIMSELF!!!] perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6
"T'was grace that taught me how to fear,
And grace my fears relieved....."
I do not agree with the author's view points or conclusions, but I did gain an understanding of what Calvinists believe about predestination.
What R.C. Sproul is missing is our entire purpose for being here on earth... to be tested and tried. How can we be tested if our grade was already chosen for us before we even began? How is it a fair test if all of our answers are chosen for us?
What R.C. Sproul is missing is our entire purpose for being here on earth... to be tested and tried. How can we be tested if our grade was already chosen for us before we even began? How is it a fair test if all of our answers are chosen for us?
A big that really help start my growing faith. Many blessings to the Lord as well as my mother for bringing this book to me. Highly encourage the reading and understanding of this book if you've never had the privilege.
If you desire to know the inner workings of the God of the Bible, this is the book for you. RC Sproul makes a seemingly dry doctrine very real and relevant. You must read this book!
Well written and concise. Clearly explains the ideas of Free Will and Predestination in ways I never imagined. Even if you don't agree with it, it's hard to argue against Sproul's explanation of Predestination. I'm still trying to come to terms with it honestly.
| topics | posts | views | last activity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Going to Arminium/Evanglical Church - Predestination is Shaky Subject | 15 | 39 | Jan 17, 2013 12:52pm | |
| Bogged down | 1 | 12 | May 30, 2009 02:33pm |
Dr. R.C. Sproul was born in 1939 in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. He is president of Ligonier Academy of Biblical and Theological Studies and the founder and chairman of the ministry that began in 1971 as the Ligonier Valley Study Center in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. In an effort to respond more effectively to the growing demand for Dr. Sproul’s teachings and the ministry’s other educational resources, th...more
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“If there is one single molecule in this universe running around loose, totally free of God’s sovereignty, then we have no guarantee that a single promise of God will ever be fulfilled.”
—
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