Phil Johnson, Pyromaniac - executive Director of Grace To You - Calvinist - and all around nice guy, has recommended Roger Olson's book Arminian Theology: Myths And Realities
.
It may seem strange for a confirmed Calvinist to recommend a book on Arminian theology. Here is how Phil explains it,
"But I have to say that Olson’s book is the best book in defense of Arminianism I’ve ever read. Some readers might be aware that I didn’t have a very high opinion of Dave Hunt’s anti-Calvinistic screed
. When I reviewed Hunt’s book in a Shepherds’ Conference seminar a few years ago, someone told me the only reason I hated the book was because I’m a Calvinist and Hunt stepped on my toes.
"And I said, “No, it’s just a really bad book, written by a guy who has no clue what he is talking about.”
"My friend challenged that: “Name one well-written book, written after 1950, either defending Arminianism or attacking Calvinism, written by someone who does know what he is talking about.”
"I admit it; I was stumped. But now Roger Olson has bailed me out. If anyone ever asks me that question again, I can point to Olson’s book. It’s a good defense of Arminianism, and although I disagree with virtually all his conclusions, he pretty much knows what he is talking about, and he explains the differences between Arminianism, Pelagianism, and semi-pelagianism pretty well."
Phil goes on to recommend three additional Calvinist titles that that you can find
HERE.
These recommendations fall within the context of a series of article that Phil wrote for
Pulpit Magazine on "Why I Am a Calvinist." I have attached the links to all of those articles below:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Conclusion
Phil also published on his weblog a review by Gary Johnson of Olson's book. That review was less than positive for reasons other than why he has recommended it. You can find that review
HERE.
Read more!