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Drawn By the Father
"All that the Father gives me will come to Me, and the one coming to Me I will never cast out. No man is able to come to Me, unless the Father, who sent Me, draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day."
These statements by the Lord Jesus found recorded in the sixth chapter of John's gospel are among the most striking and challenging of all of Christ's teachings about the salvation plan of God.
Dr. James White leads us through a wonderful study of these verses and others related so that we may ponder anew the marvelous grace and sovereignty of God in salvation. In this simply laid out consideration of the Father's eternal plan to elect, call, and irresistibly draw men and women and children to Himself throughout the ages you will learn what the infallible Scriptures reveal about the Father's will, the Son's own work, and our role in the gracious redeeming plan of God.
It will certainly clear up many of the confusing, unbiblical notions about God and the Gospel that are so prevalent today. You can come to a settled and informed conviction about what the truth is and enjoy the thankful realization that the marvelous love of God is extended to you. This is a perfect choice of book to use for a guide in studying what the Bible teaches about the doctrines commonly referred to as The Doctrines of God's Grace
These statements by the Lord Jesus found recorded in the sixth chapter of John's gospel are among the most striking and challenging of all of Christ's teachings about the salvation plan of God.
Dr. James White leads us through a wonderful study of these verses and others related so that we may ponder anew the marvelous grace and sovereignty of God in salvation. In this simply laid out consideration of the Father's eternal plan to elect, call, and irresistibly draw men and women and children to Himself throughout the ages you will learn what the infallible Scriptures reveal about the Father's will, the Son's own work, and our role in the gracious redeeming plan of God.
It will certainly clear up many of the confusing, unbiblical notions about God and the Gospel that are so prevalent today. You can come to a settled and informed conviction about what the truth is and enjoy the thankful realization that the marvelous love of God is extended to you. This is a perfect choice of book to use for a guide in studying what the Bible teaches about the doctrines commonly referred to as The Doctrines of God's Grace
63 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2002
94 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
James R. White
30 books487 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
James White is the director of Alpha and Omega Ministries, a Christian apologetics organization based in Phoenix, Arizona. He is a professor, having taught Greek, Systematic Theology, and various topics in the field of apologetics. He has authored or contributed to more than twenty four books, including The King James Only Controversy, The Forgotten Trinity, The Potter’s Freedom, and The God Who Justifies. He is an accomplished debater, having engaged in more than one-hundred forty moderated, public debates around the world with leading proponents of Roman Catholicism, Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Mormonism, as well as critics such as Bart Ehrman, John Dominic Crossan, Marcus Borg, and John Shelby Spong. In recent years James has debated in such locations as Sydney, Australia, as well as mosques in Toronto, London, and South Africa. He is an elder of the Phoenix Reformed Baptist Church, has been married to Kelli for more than thirty two years, and has two children, and one grandchild, Clementine.
James White is the director of Alpha and Omega Ministries, a Christian apologetics organization based in Phoenix, Arizona. He is a professor, having taught Greek, Systematic Theology, and various topics in the field of apologetics. He has authored or contributed to more than twenty four books, including The King James Only Controversy, The Forgotten Trinity, The Potter’s Freedom, and The God Who Justifies. He is an accomplished debater, having engaged in more than one-hundred forty moderated, public debates around the world with leading proponents of Roman Catholicism, Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Mormonism, as well as critics such as Bart Ehrman, John Dominic Crossan, Marcus Borg, and John Shelby Spong. In recent years James has debated in such locations as Sydney, Australia, as well as mosques in Toronto, London, and South Africa. He is an elder of the Phoenix Reformed Baptist Church, has been married to Kelli for more than thirty two years, and has two children, and one grandchild, Clementine.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 28, 2017
A short read, but full of weighty truth. James does great with sticking to the text and cross-referencing John's words with mostly John's words, though he does pull similar verses/phrases from other Scriptural books (rightly so). This is definitely a book for believers (it reads almost like a devotional), so it's not necessarily an apologetics book for outsiders. Dr. White's other works are better for that. However, this was a great exegetical study that teaches some very unpopular ideas that came straight from Christ's teaching. Except for the TERRIBLE cover art, I enjoyed it and definitely recommend it to all brothers and sisters.
January 23, 2018
There is not a clearer exposition in print on John 6:35-45. It is short but by no means cuts corners on the main points of the text. Truly this is an enjoyable exposition for all those seeking The God of the scriptures and seeing Christ Jesus intended message about salvation in Capernaum that day to his many listeners.
November 3, 2025
Too light
The book fails to make substantial arguments for unconditional election and never deals with the true objections to the Reformed information of John 6.
The book fails to make substantial arguments for unconditional election and never deals with the true objections to the Reformed information of John 6.
Read
August 4, 2011This little book is easy to read and udnerstand. I was thankful I didn't have to pull out a dictionary for every paragraph. Dr. James White provides a clear exegesis of the text and sticks to the text being studied. He also took the text in its full context rather than just isolating it. I do think he could have written a whole lot more, but I am sure he has other books doing that. I wouldn't read this book thinking "Alright! This is his best argument" Also don't read the book with your mind already set on what you believe, but rather read it and ask "is it true what he has said regarding this text" Deal with the one text first and see if there was a mitake made in the exegesis or if it was taken out of context. People have a tendancy to jump all over scripture with verses, but don't take the time to study one text at a time.
May 28, 2024
Poor exegesis
Dr White tries to tell us in this book that he is doing exegesis, but there is scant little of it here. Mostly, Dr White skips the observational part of exegetical exercise and jumps right into interpretation. His inability to faithfully argue contrasting points demonstrates that he is not as much interested in exegeting the text as he is in promoting his particular theological framework. Stating that those who disagree with his arguments do so out of a “spirit of rebellion” does nothing to encourage civil discourse and tells those who come from a different paradigm to just shut up and go away.
Dr White tries to tell us in this book that he is doing exegesis, but there is scant little of it here. Mostly, Dr White skips the observational part of exegetical exercise and jumps right into interpretation. His inability to faithfully argue contrasting points demonstrates that he is not as much interested in exegeting the text as he is in promoting his particular theological framework. Stating that those who disagree with his arguments do so out of a “spirit of rebellion” does nothing to encourage civil discourse and tells those who come from a different paradigm to just shut up and go away.
May 20, 2014
Truly a blessing. Easy to read for both pastor and layperson alike. Dr. White exegetically deals a section of the Gospel of John, in particular John 6:35-45 and does so with grace and humility. Truly any believer should find this title warm, encouraging and a joy to read. I highly recommend any Christian who hasn't read this to take the time to read it. I know personally I have been wanting to read it since 2009 and can see myself digging back in it in the future for a reminder of the beauty of how God saves His people!
February 8, 2022
What can I say? For better or worse, Dr. James White is one of my favorite scholars. While for some he rubs them the wrong way, in recent years, for me, he has scratched where it itches. John 6 is one place where I had a substantial itch that I thought was scratched.
I look back on my notes taken while in seminary on John 6 and I find them sparce. On the one hand, I'll blame my own notetaking ability. On the other hand, what I did write is exegetically anemic. This short booklet (under 100 pages, including endnotes) is exegetically stout while also carrying theological weight. His argument is rooted in not merely the English text of John 6, but his expertise with the original Greek is also on display. He follows the argument of the Lord from start to finish without the need to jump past verses or jump to contexts foreign to John 6.
While most of the book is focused on solid exegesis of the text, since John 6 is a text traditionally appealed to in defense of the doctrines of grace, White similarly broaches these doctrines as well. So human inability, effectual grace, preservation of the saints, and the whole lot of the doctrines of grace make their brief appearances in this work also.
I look back on my notes taken while in seminary on John 6 and I find them sparce. On the one hand, I'll blame my own notetaking ability. On the other hand, what I did write is exegetically anemic. This short booklet (under 100 pages, including endnotes) is exegetically stout while also carrying theological weight. His argument is rooted in not merely the English text of John 6, but his expertise with the original Greek is also on display. He follows the argument of the Lord from start to finish without the need to jump past verses or jump to contexts foreign to John 6.
While most of the book is focused on solid exegesis of the text, since John 6 is a text traditionally appealed to in defense of the doctrines of grace, White similarly broaches these doctrines as well. So human inability, effectual grace, preservation of the saints, and the whole lot of the doctrines of grace make their brief appearances in this work also.
July 30, 2019
Amazing little book. Quick but thoughtful read. An additional point I was not expecting....Dr. white explained how “free will” is embraced now due to the pastors wanting to grow a church. It is popular man centered teaching that can fill the pews with superficial “believers”. These same people would be offended and leave/stop giving, if the entire gospel was preached. Especially these profound but unarguable and clear verses on election and the sovereignty of God. The American evangelical church needs a reformation. All churches always need to get back to the Gospel. They always fade away from it.
Another great point he made, that I noticed in my previous church. These seeker churches preaches free will, “choosing”Jesus. They also teach once save always saved if you just say a little prayer. This combination is ridiculous. If you can “choose” Jesus, surely you could “choose” to leave. Even their view of assurance of the faith is shallow and wrong. It is only for true believers, those The Father has drawn and given to the Son.
Another great point he made, that I noticed in my previous church. These seeker churches preaches free will, “choosing”Jesus. They also teach once save always saved if you just say a little prayer. This combination is ridiculous. If you can “choose” Jesus, surely you could “choose” to leave. Even their view of assurance of the faith is shallow and wrong. It is only for true believers, those The Father has drawn and given to the Son.
May 23, 2018
The Plain Truth!
Dr White has clearly and truthfully proclaimed the truth in its clarity. There’s no ambiguity in his handling the word of truth concerning God’s sovereignty, Christ’s perfect obedience to all of God’s will, our eternal security as true believers, and the only way we can honestly interpret the written text.
Another good read from Dr White, and I highly recommend this book to all who don’t know about this, those who struggle with this truth and those who wish to understand it it further.
Dr White has clearly and truthfully proclaimed the truth in its clarity. There’s no ambiguity in his handling the word of truth concerning God’s sovereignty, Christ’s perfect obedience to all of God’s will, our eternal security as true believers, and the only way we can honestly interpret the written text.
Another good read from Dr White, and I highly recommend this book to all who don’t know about this, those who struggle with this truth and those who wish to understand it it further.
March 22, 2021
One i will revisit, very short - read it in about 2 days... I'm always surprised to see the different side of James White that comes out when he's writing a book. This is devotional, soul-warming & pastoral to the core. The exegesis is simple enough for anyone to follow along, I prefer when the footnotes have the transliteration of the greek alongside it, but nonetheless this is a good succinct look at this portion of scripture. To God be the glory!
January 16, 2025
James White is an amazing Christian scholar and one of the best Christian debaters in modern history. Unfortunately, when it comes to this book, white does not do a good job at building his case. There is more “conclusion jumping” in this book without proper explanation than is appropriate for a book where exegesis is stated to be the top priority. White does an amazing job stating what he believes, but a less than stellar job telling us why he believes it without jumping to presuppositions.
April 10, 2021
Unmatched
Dr. White shows clearly the meaning of scripture, the Apostles and Christ himself regarding our salvation. And shines a light on the explicit teaching of our Lord in John 6 of the doctrines of Grace, TULIP or Reformed Theology as it is referred. Short, yet priceless knowledge.
Dr. White shows clearly the meaning of scripture, the Apostles and Christ himself regarding our salvation. And shines a light on the explicit teaching of our Lord in John 6 of the doctrines of Grace, TULIP or Reformed Theology as it is referred. Short, yet priceless knowledge.
March 24, 2019
Excellent book on Election and Security of the Believer
This book thoroughly examines a portion of John 6. It fully shows how God is sovereign and man is unable to come to Christ on his own. I highly recommend it to anyone.
This book thoroughly examines a portion of John 6. It fully shows how God is sovereign and man is unable to come to Christ on his own. I highly recommend it to anyone.
September 26, 2020
Superb exegesis on the doctrine of election and eternal security
Fantastic work that clearly and decisively outlines the truth of God’s saving grace and mercy for those He has sovereignly chosen since before the foundations of the Earth were laid.
Fantastic work that clearly and decisively outlines the truth of God’s saving grace and mercy for those He has sovereignly chosen since before the foundations of the Earth were laid.
August 28, 2018
A must read for every Christian
Dr. White’s presentation in this book will lead the reader to worship God. A beautiful book that extols the Sovereign Lord of all things!
Dr. White’s presentation in this book will lead the reader to worship God. A beautiful book that extols the Sovereign Lord of all things!
May 1, 2019
Set aside an hour or so and read this.
May 2, 2019
Regeneration Explained
Felt it was through in solidifying the regenerative work of the Father.
It inspired me to seek more of the author's writings.
Felt it was through in solidifying the regenerative work of the Father.
It inspired me to seek more of the author's writings.
January 8, 2020
Great exegesis!
Simple, straight forward and full of Scriptural truth.
Complexities explained in an easily understandable way. Helps all to recognize the magnificence of God.
Simple, straight forward and full of Scriptural truth.
Complexities explained in an easily understandable way. Helps all to recognize the magnificence of God.
September 9, 2020
In this short read, Dr. White quickly and efficiently makes a strong case for how we are to understand John 6:35-45. This very powerful text was nicely defended by the author!
October 3, 2022
Clear and accessible
This is a great little book that answers so many questions about election. Dr. White even explains other passages on the topic. Highly recommend!
This is a great little book that answers so many questions about election. Dr. White even explains other passages on the topic. Highly recommend!
July 26, 2025
Extremely compelling, I dare say irrefutable.
October 10, 2019
A concise look at God's sovereignty in our salvation. Some find this doctrine unsettling and would seek to explain it away. I know that I would have never come to Christ apart from my blinded eyes being first opened by him.
April 14, 2019
Love James White
Great defense of the sovereignty of God and explanation of John 6. I became an instant fan reading "The Potters Freedom." I recommend it and this book as well to those interesting in serious apologetics. Whether you agree with Dr. White or not he has strong biblically sound arguments that have to be handled and discussed. I love that he took this later section of John 6 and gave such well deserved piece by piece exegetical argument that would be hard to oppose in my opinion.
Great defense of the sovereignty of God and explanation of John 6. I became an instant fan reading "The Potters Freedom." I recommend it and this book as well to those interesting in serious apologetics. Whether you agree with Dr. White or not he has strong biblically sound arguments that have to be handled and discussed. I love that he took this later section of John 6 and gave such well deserved piece by piece exegetical argument that would be hard to oppose in my opinion.
January 2, 2017
Great and simple layout of a foundational understanding of salvation from a Calvinist perspective. No word or concept was too academic and should be a great first read for someone wanting more or a great read for the academic to get their head back on solid ground.
September 6, 2024
A needed look at the declaration of our Lord.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews