This weekend we had our membership class, and we did 4 classes on our Doctrinal Distinctives. One of these distictions is that we are reformed. Here are a few clips from some people who are smarter than I am, explaining exactly what reformed theology is.
Reformed Theology – what is it? from Grace Unknown the heart of reformed theology by R. C. Sproul
1. Centered on God
2. Based on God’s Word alone
3. Committed to faith alone
4. Devoted to Jesus Christ
5. Structured by three covenants (redemption, works and grace)
The Five Solas of the Reformation A Brief Statement Gregg Strawbridge, Ph.D
1. Sola Scriptura: The Scripture Alone is the Standard
2. Soli Deo Gloria! For the Glory of God Alone
3. Solo Christo! By Christ’s Work Alone are We Saved
4. Sola Gratia: Salvation by Grace Alone
5. Sola Fide: Justification by Faith Alone
We focused most of the class on the work of Christ alone to save. We went through some real key points of Calvanism, and we had a ton of excitement. Many people asked where they could get some real solid books that would explain Calvanism even more. So, I wanted to put it out there and see if any of our readers could give me some practical books that explain Calvinism, or reformed theology, in kind of a straight forward way. Do any of my peeps have some suggestions?
Aaron,
You took the recommendation right out of my mouth with Sproul's book "What is Reformed Theology (originally titled Grace Unknown). I cut my teeth on Calvinism in 1998 with this book. It really helped shape my theology and answered a host of questions that were on my mind at the time. Another benefit of Sproul's book is his historical perspective on Calvin, Luther, Edwards, etc.
As far as my humble recommendation on a Reformed book, I would highly recommend "The Doctrines of Grace: Rediscovering the Evangelical Gospel" by James Montgomery Boice and Philip Graham Ryken. It's a solid introductory analysis of the 5 points of Calvinism and full of other insightful chapters. Hope this helps Aaron.
http://www.amazon.com/Doctrines-Grace-Rediscoveri…
Soli Deo Gloria.
To God Alone Be the Glory.
You the man erik… Thanks for the recommendations. Totally respect you bro.