Evangelistic Calvinism

by John Benton

This booklet addresses a misunderstanding widely held among present-day Christians. ?Calvinism, according to the author, has received a bad press and has been unjustly criticized on the grounds that its teachings undermine zeal for Christian mission and evangelism. Taking each of the so-called ?five points of Calvinism in turn, John Benton convincingly shows how the ?doctrines of grace are in fact five beautiful diamonds from which the glories of Jesus wonderfully shine to attract those who are lost in sin. He demonstrates how ?they address the sinner's deepest fears in the most heart-warming way imaginable and comes to the conclusion that ?rather than being truths of which we are to be wary, they are in fact an integral part of the gospel to be proclaimed.

Genres: Theology, Evangelism

32 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2006

About the author

John Benton studied at the University of Sussex, where he earned a science doctorate. He serves as co-pastor in Guildford, Surrey at the Chertsey Street Baptist Church, and also works as the managing editor of Evangelicals Now, a monthly newspaper. He has co-authored multiple books with his wife, Ann. J. Benton books include Coming to Faith in Christ, written for people who are just considering the Christian faith. This book is written in a straightforward style, containing relevant Bible references for readers to explore further, and is really a booklet-style tract. Evangelistic Calvinism explores each of the five points of Calvinism, comparing each of these doctrines of grace to five beautiful diamonds through which the glories of Jesus can shine. This is also a booklet-style tract. In God’s Riches, Benton has created an introductory workbook to Christian doctrine, helping Christians to systematically study to grow their faith.

Reviews

[C.J. Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this little book on the five points of Calvinism while on a short getaway with my family. It warms the heart to be reminded of God’s sovereignty in our salvation, especially in light of how helpless we would be without his work to save us.

What’s special about this book is that Benton focuses on how the TULIP, itself, gives us a great way to share the gospel in our evangelism efforts.

I could certainly see this book being used in one of two ways primarily: (1) to help someone struggling with the doctrines of grace to slowly walk through the five points and understand that, as sour as they may seem at first, they are actually sweet truths based in Scripture (i.e., maybe each person would read a chapter at a time and then meet to discuss it); and (2) to walk unbelievers, maybe over a few meetings, through the gospel using the book—as, in the end, Benton does a great job of using the TULIP as a gospel presentation itself.

I would include this book alongside Sproul’s “Chosen by God,” Stewart’s “Ten Myths About Calvinism,” and Piper’s “Five Points.” Though, because of its length, it might be best compared to Spurgeon’s “A Defense of Calvinism.”

[Jonathan Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short little pamphlet about how Calvinism works with an eye to how to use it in evangelism. This was not as direct a connection to evangelism as I would’ve liked but it was solid and explained Calvinism well

[Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

A concise booklet with depth and an evangelistic emphasis on the wonderful doctrines of grace. May we never wander too far without refreshing our weary hearts on these doctrines for “they are like precious balm to the soul” (Benton, 2006, p.32).

[Adam T. Calvert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A terrific brief work on how the doctrines of grace (five points of Calvinism) is not a hinderance to evangelism but rather makes evangelism easier in practice and more powerful in its effect - because it is relying on the power of God.

[Timothy Crockett · Rating 4 out of 5]

One book I get to return that was lent to me. I have one more to go! Considering the intent of the author I think the book was good. This wasn't meant to be a heavy treatment of the Doctrines of Grace.

The purpose of the book was to show how these doctrines fit into evangelism and why they are important, hence the title - Evangelistic Calvinism. The author contends that the Doctrines of Grace are not a hindrance to the Gospel, but rather a help.

The author breaks down the acrostic TULIP and outlines throughout what each letter means and how each is used in evangelism.

It is a short (34 pages) practical book that goes over the basics of the Doctrines of Grace.

I would recommend it just for its simplicity and focus. There are many today who believe Calvinists don't soul win. This is factually wrong! An honest perusal of church history will dispel this notion.

[Eliézer Salazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Christian should read this short, helpful booklet. Whether you're involved in public evangelism efforts or reaching people one-on-one, this booklet will show you how the famous TULIP acronym summarizing the Calvinist faith energizes the gospel rather than enervates it. It points you to God as the author of salvation from beginning to end. There is not a single thing you do to begin, maintain, and consummate your salvation or that of anyone else. It is all of God, for God, through God, by God, in God, and to God!

[Gabe Mira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very encouraging and convicting

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

An attractive presentation of the five points of Calvinism.