The Five Points of Calvinism: Defined, Defended, Documented (second edition)

David N. Steele, Curtis C. Thomas, and S. Lance Quinn

Reviewed by: Larry Oldaker

The Five Points of Calvinism: Defined, Defended, Documented (second edition), by David N. Steele, Curtis C. Thomas, and S. Lance Quinn. Published by P&R, 2004. Paperback, 272 pages, list price $12.99. Reviewed by Larry Oldaker, OP minister.

If you found the first edition of this book useful in Bible studies, in classes, or to hand out to those interested in the Reformed faith, this new edition should prove to be even more helpful. Roger Nicole wrote that the first edition provided "a clear and concise definition of the Calvinistic position." Sinclair Ferguson writes that this second edition "is a model of clarity, full of biblical teaching, and will help you through the vast maze of Christian books to some of the very best."

This new edition retains all the original material, but presents it in an updated layout. The type is larger, making it easier to read, and the older outline style of the first edition is replaced by section headings. I must admit that I miss the old outline style. There are expanded indexes and updated bibliographies. The bibliographies alone make the book a worthwhile purchase.

The biggest change in the second edition is the addition of several new appendixes. The original appendix, "The Meaning of Foreknew in Romans 8:29," is retained, and seven more are added. These additional essays explore the implications of Calvinistic theology.

These improvements more than double the book in size and price. It tan be lamented that the compactness of the book is lost, but the gain is a more complete presentation. The book is presented from a solidly biblical, evangelical position, which makes it a great introduction to the debate between a God-centered and human-centered theology.