Read 'em and Reap!: What is Reformed Theology?

What is Reformed Theology? – R.C. Sproul
There are many different ideas floating around about what people think Reformed Theology is. To some the very term brings to mind the heretical ideas of Hyper-Calvinism. To others, it may evoke “unfairness” about God. Still to others, it may be a vaguely familiar term, but without deep significance.

For each of those people, Dr. R. C. Sproul has provided a grand service. Previously published as “Grace Unknown”, “What is Reformed Theology?” seeks to provide a solid understanding of the basics of Reformed Theology.

The book is divided into two main parts. In the first one, Sproul gives five foundational aspects of this Theology. Like any true Theology, Reformed Theology is centered on God. The word Theology means “The study of God” after all. It is also based on God’s Word alone. Too much of evangelicalism today is based on emotion and experience, whereas Reformed Theology is founded on the very Word of God. It is also committed to Faith alone, without which no one will be saved. It is devoted to the Prophet, Priest and King, our Lord Jesus Christ. And finally, it is nicknamed Covenant Theology. Four of these five aspects are absolutely essential to any system of theology if it is to be considered Christian. Probably, it is not necessary to be nicknamed Covenant Theology.

Part two is a bit more controversial, but many will claim that it is just as essential. It defines the five points of Reformed Theology, or more recognizably the five points of Calvinism as illustrated by the acrostic TULIP. Sproul rips the historic petals from this acrostic as he renames the points to more accurately represent the ideas which they convey. They include Humanity’s Radical Corruption (Total Depravity), God’s Sovereign Choice (Unconditional Election), Christ’s Purposeful Atonement (Limited Atonement), The Spirit’s Effective Call (Irresistible Grace) and God’s Preservation of the Saints (Perseverance of the Saints).

For those who are familiar with historic Reformed Theology, this book is a great reminder of the foundational truths which undergird its long history. For those who are wondering about why it matters, this is a great primer to help understand the basics. And for those who are forever twisting these doctrines into something they are not, this is a much needed resource. Please read it. Whether Reformed or not, this book can be a great benefit for those on either side of the argument! Find out what others are saying about this book at The Diet of Bookworms. Read ‘em & Reap!

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What is Reformed Theology?

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