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Blessings of the Faith
Reformed Theology
What is Reformed theology? For some, it's all about the covenants. Others think of the Five Points of Calvinism or doctrines such as election and predestination. If you're looking for more clarity on the topic, or if you're hoping to provide an explanation for someone else, this brief book serves as a helpful primer and quick reference tool for anyone who wants a well-rounded overview. Learn what makes Reformed theology distinctive, delve into its historic context and biblical support, and get a better grasp of the meaning of the terminology involved. Informative and reverent, this short book provides church leaders, study groups, and individuals with discussion questions and extensive Q&A on related topics.
112 pages, Hardcover
Published April 26, 2023
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May 31, 2023
Short book on Reformed Theology that is helpful! I like the outline and the way he breaks down answering the question “what is reformed theology?” I will probably use this for students asking this question.
I was hoping for a little more excitement and passion from the author. But for 96 pages, it answers a lot of questions that people are asking!
I was hoping for a little more excitement and passion from the author. But for 96 pages, it answers a lot of questions that people are asking!
May 2, 2023
As the fourth installment in P&R Publishing’s Blessings of the Faith series, Jonathan Master’s Reformed Theology presents “a fairly mainstream, middle-of-the road definition” of the Reformed theological tradition (p. 95). Master writes with verve and clarity, and his phrasing is memorable at more than a few points. This book would be excellent as a go-to handout book for Reformed church visitors, those who are new to (or considering) Reformed theology, or as a base text for a new members class in a Reformed church.
In the Introduction, Master lays out the two big claims of the book: theology matters and Reformed theology in particular is a blessing. What follows are four brief chapters treating the substance of Reformed theology and the blessings of Reformed theology. Matching the other three volumes in this series, this book includes two appendices with questions and answers and recommended further reading.
So, what is Reformed theology? Master writes in the Introduction, "Reformed theology, centered on Jesus Christ and rooted in the Scriptures, seeks to explain the whole Bible by showing God's work of salvation from beginning to end. It gives an honest assessment of humanity and good news about the nature of salvation. More than that, it shows how the Bible instructs us personally, teaching us how we should worship God and serve him in our everyday lives at home, at work, and in the church" (p. 15).
In unpacking that statement in the first chapter (What Is Reformed Theology?), Master briefly touches on the historical and popular definitions of Reformed Theology before presenting "better ways to define the term" (p. 20). Whereas the historical definition has limited usefulness for understanding Reformed Theology as-such and the popular definition is woefully truncated in what it covers, the "better" definition is fuller in scope and comprehension, including the theology of the Reformation's Five Solas, the biblical framework of covenant theology, and the biblically motivated impulse to creedal and confessional statements. It is these major themes that Master develops in the first three chapters.
In presenting the Five Solas of the Reformation (Sola Scriptural, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia, Solus Christus, and Soli Deo Gloria), Master rightly addresses the Reformers’ historical concern with authority (Scripture over clerics). As he does so, he deftly shows the relevance this concern has for worship and for modern life. Today’s Reformed churches champion the authority of Scripture over not only the pope and his magisterium, but also over cultural elites and private feelings. Master writes, “Whatever the competing authority – the pope, the cultural elite, or a private feeling – the Reformed doctrine of sola Scriptura asserts that the Bible alone must have the final word” (p. 23). Furthermore, he presents sola Fide as doctrinal material “out of which the Reformation was made” (p. 25), and he champions the centrality of grace, Christ, and God in Reformed Theology.
The doctrinal hallmarks of covenant theology figure heavily in this book, and appropriately so. As Master writes, “covenants provide the biblical framework by which we understand God’s work in Christ and his dealings with his people throughout history” (p. 29). Because Reformed theology is concerned with being biblical, and the Bible is structured around successive covenants between God and man, covenant theology is part of the warp and woof of Reformed theology. The importance of creeds and confessions for Reformed theology is likewise highlighted, both in the body of the book (pp. 30, 77-82) and in the Question and Answers in the back of the book (p. 98). It is a strong but true claim that Master makes, “to be Reformed is to be confessional; to be part of a Reformed church is to be in a place in which one of these historic confessions is professed, taught, and followed” (p. 30). Not only is the confessional characteristic of the Reformed tradition a trait, but it is an asset in that the Reformed confessions “offer transparency to those within the church and to those outside it” (p. 78). In our age of subjectivism, relativism, and confusion, such transparency and stability is indeed a great blessing.
In emphasizing the authority of Scripture in the second chapter, Master shares a foundational concern of the Reformers and their theological successors. He grounds the authority of Scripture in its self-attesting character, and especially in the record of Christ’s earthly ministry and teaching. He writes, “to be Christian – to truly trust in Jesus Christ and to follow him – we must hold to the traditional Christian teaching about the Bible. Scripture must be our final authority – our final court of appeal – precisely because we serve Christ” (p. 36). Interestingly, Master does not mention the importance of the inner testimony of the Spirit to the authority and veracity of Scripture, either at this point or in the Question and Answer regarding the Reformed emphasis on the ministry of the Holy Spirit (pp. 89-90). This is the only weakness I noted in the book, and it is a rather minor one at that. Perhaps my noting it reveals my Reformed ‘prickliness’ (pp. 90-91).
One of the special strengths of this little treatment of Reformed theology is Master’s emphasis on evangelism and missions as a distinctive interest of Reformed churches. By his presentation, Master makes it clear that we cannot rightly understand the doctrine of God’s electing grace without recognizing the important implications this doctrine has for motivating the church’s evangelistic and missionary enterprises (pp. 46-47, 93-95).
In chapter four, Master gives five broad categories for understanding the blessings of Reformed Theology. The first blessing is the security of Scripture, which involves doctrinal clarity, authoritative teaching, and the maintenance of proper doctrinal balance (or appropriate emphasis on various doctrines). The second blessing is the comfort of God’s sovereignty in man’s salvation, in all aspects of our personal life, and in all the world’s affairs. Master devotes more space to his discussion of this blessing than any other, and he gives special attention to the place of suffering and God’s sovereignty in the Christian life. Master’s careful development of this blessing demonstrates his pastoral concern for readers as he rightly handles the truths of Reformed theology for the good of God’s people. Thirdly, he highlights the wonder of God’s electing grace which inspires rejoicing praise and assures us of a secure promise of ultimate glorification. The fourth blessing is the clarity of the covenant which shows us Christian salvation’s unique benefits in Christ as well as the continuity of the covenant community (from the past, into the future, and with both home and church). The fifth blessing was mentioned above as the transparency in (and of) our confession (and Confessions) of faith. Master points out that one great strength of the Reformed Confessions is how they uphold the authority of Scripture for the faith and practice of both Christians and the church.
In presenting Reformed theology as a blessing to Bible-believing, Christ-loving, Evangelical Christians, Jonathan Master turns the tables on all-too-common tropes about the alleged weaknesses of the Reformed tradition. He effectively shows in this little book that “any areas that at first glance may appear to be liabilities are actually assets” (p. 81). Indeed, readers will come away from this book with a new or renewed appreciation for the history and theological emphases of Reformed theology. This volume is a fine addition to what is shaping up to be a great series of pointed introductions to the basics – and blessings – of the Christian Faith as understood and proclaimed by Reformed and Presbyterian Churches around the world.
In the Introduction, Master lays out the two big claims of the book: theology matters and Reformed theology in particular is a blessing. What follows are four brief chapters treating the substance of Reformed theology and the blessings of Reformed theology. Matching the other three volumes in this series, this book includes two appendices with questions and answers and recommended further reading.
So, what is Reformed theology? Master writes in the Introduction, "Reformed theology, centered on Jesus Christ and rooted in the Scriptures, seeks to explain the whole Bible by showing God's work of salvation from beginning to end. It gives an honest assessment of humanity and good news about the nature of salvation. More than that, it shows how the Bible instructs us personally, teaching us how we should worship God and serve him in our everyday lives at home, at work, and in the church" (p. 15).
In unpacking that statement in the first chapter (What Is Reformed Theology?), Master briefly touches on the historical and popular definitions of Reformed Theology before presenting "better ways to define the term" (p. 20). Whereas the historical definition has limited usefulness for understanding Reformed Theology as-such and the popular definition is woefully truncated in what it covers, the "better" definition is fuller in scope and comprehension, including the theology of the Reformation's Five Solas, the biblical framework of covenant theology, and the biblically motivated impulse to creedal and confessional statements. It is these major themes that Master develops in the first three chapters.
In presenting the Five Solas of the Reformation (Sola Scriptural, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia, Solus Christus, and Soli Deo Gloria), Master rightly addresses the Reformers’ historical concern with authority (Scripture over clerics). As he does so, he deftly shows the relevance this concern has for worship and for modern life. Today’s Reformed churches champion the authority of Scripture over not only the pope and his magisterium, but also over cultural elites and private feelings. Master writes, “Whatever the competing authority – the pope, the cultural elite, or a private feeling – the Reformed doctrine of sola Scriptura asserts that the Bible alone must have the final word” (p. 23). Furthermore, he presents sola Fide as doctrinal material “out of which the Reformation was made” (p. 25), and he champions the centrality of grace, Christ, and God in Reformed Theology.
The doctrinal hallmarks of covenant theology figure heavily in this book, and appropriately so. As Master writes, “covenants provide the biblical framework by which we understand God’s work in Christ and his dealings with his people throughout history” (p. 29). Because Reformed theology is concerned with being biblical, and the Bible is structured around successive covenants between God and man, covenant theology is part of the warp and woof of Reformed theology. The importance of creeds and confessions for Reformed theology is likewise highlighted, both in the body of the book (pp. 30, 77-82) and in the Question and Answers in the back of the book (p. 98). It is a strong but true claim that Master makes, “to be Reformed is to be confessional; to be part of a Reformed church is to be in a place in which one of these historic confessions is professed, taught, and followed” (p. 30). Not only is the confessional characteristic of the Reformed tradition a trait, but it is an asset in that the Reformed confessions “offer transparency to those within the church and to those outside it” (p. 78). In our age of subjectivism, relativism, and confusion, such transparency and stability is indeed a great blessing.
In emphasizing the authority of Scripture in the second chapter, Master shares a foundational concern of the Reformers and their theological successors. He grounds the authority of Scripture in its self-attesting character, and especially in the record of Christ’s earthly ministry and teaching. He writes, “to be Christian – to truly trust in Jesus Christ and to follow him – we must hold to the traditional Christian teaching about the Bible. Scripture must be our final authority – our final court of appeal – precisely because we serve Christ” (p. 36). Interestingly, Master does not mention the importance of the inner testimony of the Spirit to the authority and veracity of Scripture, either at this point or in the Question and Answer regarding the Reformed emphasis on the ministry of the Holy Spirit (pp. 89-90). This is the only weakness I noted in the book, and it is a rather minor one at that. Perhaps my noting it reveals my Reformed ‘prickliness’ (pp. 90-91).
One of the special strengths of this little treatment of Reformed theology is Master’s emphasis on evangelism and missions as a distinctive interest of Reformed churches. By his presentation, Master makes it clear that we cannot rightly understand the doctrine of God’s electing grace without recognizing the important implications this doctrine has for motivating the church’s evangelistic and missionary enterprises (pp. 46-47, 93-95).
In chapter four, Master gives five broad categories for understanding the blessings of Reformed Theology. The first blessing is the security of Scripture, which involves doctrinal clarity, authoritative teaching, and the maintenance of proper doctrinal balance (or appropriate emphasis on various doctrines). The second blessing is the comfort of God’s sovereignty in man’s salvation, in all aspects of our personal life, and in all the world’s affairs. Master devotes more space to his discussion of this blessing than any other, and he gives special attention to the place of suffering and God’s sovereignty in the Christian life. Master’s careful development of this blessing demonstrates his pastoral concern for readers as he rightly handles the truths of Reformed theology for the good of God’s people. Thirdly, he highlights the wonder of God’s electing grace which inspires rejoicing praise and assures us of a secure promise of ultimate glorification. The fourth blessing is the clarity of the covenant which shows us Christian salvation’s unique benefits in Christ as well as the continuity of the covenant community (from the past, into the future, and with both home and church). The fifth blessing was mentioned above as the transparency in (and of) our confession (and Confessions) of faith. Master points out that one great strength of the Reformed Confessions is how they uphold the authority of Scripture for the faith and practice of both Christians and the church.
In presenting Reformed theology as a blessing to Bible-believing, Christ-loving, Evangelical Christians, Jonathan Master turns the tables on all-too-common tropes about the alleged weaknesses of the Reformed tradition. He effectively shows in this little book that “any areas that at first glance may appear to be liabilities are actually assets” (p. 81). Indeed, readers will come away from this book with a new or renewed appreciation for the history and theological emphases of Reformed theology. This volume is a fine addition to what is shaping up to be a great series of pointed introductions to the basics – and blessings – of the Christian Faith as understood and proclaimed by Reformed and Presbyterian Churches around the world.
April 30, 2023
Reformed Theology by Jonathan Master is a short and readable overview that guides people through the basics of this historical theological position. Masters summarizes Reformed theology by pointing readers to the so-called five points of Calvinism, which emerged at the Synod of Dort in 1618-1619. These five succinct doctrinal pillars were direct responses to the Arminians of the day. Reformed theology is also undergirded by the five solas of the Reformation - grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone, Scripture alone, and to God alone be the glory.
Master helpfully summarizes Reformed theology by pointing to three key articles. Reformed theology 1) affirms the five solas and all their implications, 2) recognizes the centrality of the covenant in God’s saving purposes, and 3) is expressed in a historic and public confession of faith.
Reformed theology also rightly makes much of the sovereignty of God. The author adds:
The covenants of Scripture are explored which “provide the skeleton or structure for what God reveals about himself and for how he redeems his people.” The book surveys the biblical covenants and concludes with the New Covenant which grants spiritual life to the people of God and gives them the ability to obey him and worship him as Scripture demands. Masters concludes:
Finally, the blessings of Reformed theology is explored. This chapter is a fitting conclusion as the author reveals several practical blessings that are part and parcel of the Reformed approach to understanding Scripture. Reformed Theology by Jonathan Master is a clear summary of the Reformed faith that should grace every pastor's shelf. Pastors should in turn recommend this powerful little book to inquiry minds and those who need a primer on the basics of Reformed theology.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Master helpfully summarizes Reformed theology by pointing to three key articles. Reformed theology 1) affirms the five solas and all their implications, 2) recognizes the centrality of the covenant in God’s saving purposes, and 3) is expressed in a historic and public confession of faith.
Reformed theology also rightly makes much of the sovereignty of God. The author adds:
Creation shows that God alone is in charge; he alone has the right to demand obedience and allegiance. God’s promise of salvation demonstrates that God is in charge of the future as well as the present and past. He can promise that something will take place, and the fulfillment of that promise is guaranteed.
The covenants of Scripture are explored which “provide the skeleton or structure for what God reveals about himself and for how he redeems his people.” The book surveys the biblical covenants and concludes with the New Covenant which grants spiritual life to the people of God and gives them the ability to obey him and worship him as Scripture demands. Masters concludes:
Understanding the covenantal structure of the Bible is vital to understanding the nature of Reformed theology. Because Reformed theology is centered on the Scriptures, the way in which the Bible reveals God’s salvation must inform how we understand and proclaim it today. When we look carefully at the covenants as they unfold in Scripture, we not only see Jesus Christ more clearly but also see the breadth of God’s salvation to all nations and the glories of a salvation that is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone - all to the glory of the triune God.
Finally, the blessings of Reformed theology is explored. This chapter is a fitting conclusion as the author reveals several practical blessings that are part and parcel of the Reformed approach to understanding Scripture. Reformed Theology by Jonathan Master is a clear summary of the Reformed faith that should grace every pastor's shelf. Pastors should in turn recommend this powerful little book to inquiry minds and those who need a primer on the basics of Reformed theology.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
April 23, 2023
Probably the best short introduction to Reformed theology I’ve seen.
May 15, 2025
Simple. Clear. Nice intro to the basics of what reformed theology is and what it’s not. Common questions at the end of the book are answered. As well as questions at the end of each chapter for reflection. “The definition provided in this book is a fairly mainstream, middle of the road definition” for 96 pages I think it does a good job to lay this out. Of course these topics are complex and the author is honest about the limitations within this small book and suggests further study with recommended reading at the end.
Some highlights:
The section of the blessings of reformed theology encouraged me to be reminded of my only comfort in life and death. That “I belong to my faithful savior Jesus Christ!” Rest of the quote from the Heidelberg Catechism on pg 69
“Reformed theology is a balanced and thoughtful declaration of the teaching of Scripture. It is meant to shape lives and cultivate churches that are centered on the glorious gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a theology for life- not just the life of the mind, but the life of the whole person dedicated to God completely”
Speaks against pride in theological knowledge.. overall the big idea behind the 5 points of Calvinism and the 5 solas can be summarized by 1 Cor 4:7 “What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?”
“Submit to the authority of God’s word. This is what Reformed theology seeks to do.” p99
“To commune with God, we must come on his terms, responding to what he says and submitting our will to his.” p100
Some highlights:
The section of the blessings of reformed theology encouraged me to be reminded of my only comfort in life and death. That “I belong to my faithful savior Jesus Christ!” Rest of the quote from the Heidelberg Catechism on pg 69
“Reformed theology is a balanced and thoughtful declaration of the teaching of Scripture. It is meant to shape lives and cultivate churches that are centered on the glorious gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a theology for life- not just the life of the mind, but the life of the whole person dedicated to God completely”
Speaks against pride in theological knowledge.. overall the big idea behind the 5 points of Calvinism and the 5 solas can be summarized by 1 Cor 4:7 “What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?”
“Submit to the authority of God’s word. This is what Reformed theology seeks to do.” p99
“To commune with God, we must come on his terms, responding to what he says and submitting our will to his.” p100
March 23, 2025
An easy to digest summary of the major points of reformed and covenantal theology.
May 12, 2023
Jonathan Master accomplishes a concise, but appropriately thorough explanation of Reformed Theology as a system of belief and the practical implications that do necessarily flow from that belief.
A wonderful resource both for the long-timer in Reformed teaching (highlighting what is most important in our doctrine and why it matters to our daily life) and for the curious explorer who is willing to engage the basic tenets of the system and follow these to their natural ends.
I am grateful to be able to put this little book into the hands of many people who could benefit from it.
A wonderful resource both for the long-timer in Reformed teaching (highlighting what is most important in our doctrine and why it matters to our daily life) and for the curious explorer who is willing to engage the basic tenets of the system and follow these to their natural ends.
I am grateful to be able to put this little book into the hands of many people who could benefit from it.
May 19, 2023
Good little book on what is Reformed Theology. The question and answers section at the end does a very good job in explaining the objections to the Reformed Faith. I would give this book to someone interested in learning about Reformed Theology.
October 31, 2025
This was a decent book. I learned some things and it was a quick read. I would’ve finished it sooner if life didn’t get in the way but I finished it on Reformation Day so that’s pretty cool.
My main problem was that his explanation of Reformed Theology didn’t match his definition. He explained it as “Within this general Protestant framework, there were divisions. Luther and those who followed him had different approaches from Calvin and the other European Reformers. These differences —largely on the sacraments and worship-set Lutherans apart from the other Protestants. Those who followed Luther became known as Lutherans; those who followed the other Reformers are generally referred to as Reformed. So, from a historical perspective, Reformed theology refers to the theology of the non-Lutheran teaching that flows out of the Protestant Reformation. When the term is used in this historical way (as in much scholarly literature), it also normally implies adherence to one of the historical confessions of faith that bind together Reformed congregations and denominations.” (Pages 18-19). I agree with this definition, no problem there.
The problem is he then explains things such as the regulative principle of worship being a part of Reformed Theology, but based on his definition Anglicans are reformed, but we follow the normative principle of worship. It’s not a big deal to be honest, I would still recommend the book, but it felt more about Presbyterianism than the broader reformed tradition. He mentions the Protestant confessions as essential to reformed theology (I agree) but the 39 Articles of Religion were left out which is unfortunate because I love them (I have to, I’m Anglican).
This wasn’t a big deal, overall it was a good intro to learning about reformed theology, especially if you’re unfamiliar with it or think reformed theology or Calvinism is only TULIP and predestination, because it goes far deeper than that.
I don’t want my critiques to come across as me hating on the book. I liked it, it was brief and to the point, not super in depth but I wasn’t expecting it to be. It was a good introduction to what reformed theology is.
My main problem was that his explanation of Reformed Theology didn’t match his definition. He explained it as “Within this general Protestant framework, there were divisions. Luther and those who followed him had different approaches from Calvin and the other European Reformers. These differences —largely on the sacraments and worship-set Lutherans apart from the other Protestants. Those who followed Luther became known as Lutherans; those who followed the other Reformers are generally referred to as Reformed. So, from a historical perspective, Reformed theology refers to the theology of the non-Lutheran teaching that flows out of the Protestant Reformation. When the term is used in this historical way (as in much scholarly literature), it also normally implies adherence to one of the historical confessions of faith that bind together Reformed congregations and denominations.” (Pages 18-19). I agree with this definition, no problem there.
The problem is he then explains things such as the regulative principle of worship being a part of Reformed Theology, but based on his definition Anglicans are reformed, but we follow the normative principle of worship. It’s not a big deal to be honest, I would still recommend the book, but it felt more about Presbyterianism than the broader reformed tradition. He mentions the Protestant confessions as essential to reformed theology (I agree) but the 39 Articles of Religion were left out which is unfortunate because I love them (I have to, I’m Anglican).
This wasn’t a big deal, overall it was a good intro to learning about reformed theology, especially if you’re unfamiliar with it or think reformed theology or Calvinism is only TULIP and predestination, because it goes far deeper than that.
I don’t want my critiques to come across as me hating on the book. I liked it, it was brief and to the point, not super in depth but I wasn’t expecting it to be. It was a good introduction to what reformed theology is.
December 28, 2023
Good and concise summary of what it means to be reformed. Especially liked the questions and answers section at the end.
July 26, 2025
Content-wise, there were only a few things I didn’t agree with/love. I was trying to be fair toward his perspective seeing as I’m not Presbyterian in my view of covenants. However, the real kicker was the organization and flow of his argument. Even though I would count myself reformed, I wasn’t convinced, persuaded, or even entirely clear on his argument and presentation. Not terrible, but it did not accomplish what I thought the author was trying to accomplish.
December 15, 2023
Helpful little book. The Q&A at the end was a nice addition.
May 14, 2023
This is a good concise intro to Reformed Theology. It is accurate and accessible, but the structure of the content of the book was not intuitive to me. The Table of Contents has only four vaguely titled sections listed and I was hoping for a resource that is easier to navigate and find the answers I am looking for.
I liked the explanations for the Five Solas, the centrality of the covenant in God’s salvation of man and why we must have a historic confession of faith. I also liked his explanation of the sovereignty of God and this quote, “Although many value the illusion of control, an honest appraisal of our lives shows just how little power we have over them.”
A couple of other places that this book enhanced my understanding was why worship is “dialogical” (page 99), and I loved his answer about Reformed theology and free will (page 92).
It left me with a few questions about terms it used and did not explain - like why does Reformed theology only refer to the theology of the non-Lutheran teaching that flows out of the Protestant Reformation (page 19) (why only non-Lutheran? And why not Lutheran since Luther was the impetus for the Reformation?) And a he mentions that the acronym TULIP is the implication behind the five solas (page 65) without saying why - I would like more of an explanation regarding the relationship between the Five Solas and the TULIP. What is the “Three Forms of Unity” he mentions once (page 98)?
I liked the explanations for the Five Solas, the centrality of the covenant in God’s salvation of man and why we must have a historic confession of faith. I also liked his explanation of the sovereignty of God and this quote, “Although many value the illusion of control, an honest appraisal of our lives shows just how little power we have over them.”
A couple of other places that this book enhanced my understanding was why worship is “dialogical” (page 99), and I loved his answer about Reformed theology and free will (page 92).
It left me with a few questions about terms it used and did not explain - like why does Reformed theology only refer to the theology of the non-Lutheran teaching that flows out of the Protestant Reformation (page 19) (why only non-Lutheran? And why not Lutheran since Luther was the impetus for the Reformation?) And a he mentions that the acronym TULIP is the implication behind the five solas (page 65) without saying why - I would like more of an explanation regarding the relationship between the Five Solas and the TULIP. What is the “Three Forms of Unity” he mentions once (page 98)?
May 12, 2023
I was drawn to this little book because I am always interested to learn how others define Reformed theology. It is a quick read, brief but substantial. One could devour this little book in one sitting. You will not be disappointed if you take the title seriously. There are other wonderful books that address the Reformed spirit, or the Reformed tradition, or the Reformed faith. This book is addressing doctrine. The author is quick to point out that defining Reformed theology isn't an easy or simple task. Mr. Master sees the core Reformed doctrines affirming: 1. the 5 solas of the Reformation, 2. the covenant as the unifying theme of Scripture, and 3. the confession(s) of the church; the church as an interpretive body. One can hardly disagree with these, but I kept thinking, "well what about this or what about that."
I found the last chapter addressing various questions or in some cases objections to be practical and pastoral. Mr. Master has a gentle way explaining his convictions.
I found the last chapter addressing various questions or in some cases objections to be practical and pastoral. Mr. Master has a gentle way explaining his convictions.
May 5, 2024
I was gifted this book by Greenville Seminary.
It is a simple, easy-to-read introduction to Reformed Theology. It mostly tries to stay out of the weeds concerning any controversies and it seeks to really give the basics while admitting that there are disagreements amongst Reformed brothers and sisters.
For those looking for an introduction, this book may answer your biggest questions.
On a critical note, it does mention Reformed Baptists briefly, but never comprehensively. For instance, when mentioning the Reformed confessions, Master only mentions distinctly Presbyterian confessions (i.e., he omits the London Baptist Confession). However, knowing that Master is the president of a Presbyterian seminary and that he never denigrates Reformed Baptists in his survey, this book can still be useful for Reformed Baptists.
It is a simple, easy-to-read introduction to Reformed Theology. It mostly tries to stay out of the weeds concerning any controversies and it seeks to really give the basics while admitting that there are disagreements amongst Reformed brothers and sisters.
For those looking for an introduction, this book may answer your biggest questions.
On a critical note, it does mention Reformed Baptists briefly, but never comprehensively. For instance, when mentioning the Reformed confessions, Master only mentions distinctly Presbyterian confessions (i.e., he omits the London Baptist Confession). However, knowing that Master is the president of a Presbyterian seminary and that he never denigrates Reformed Baptists in his survey, this book can still be useful for Reformed Baptists.
July 6, 2024
The book is a good introduction of the distintives of Reformed Theology, I think it does a better job and emphasis on the confessions than other books as “what is reformed theology” from R.C. Sproul which I am currently reading.
It is short, concise and overall… brief.
Nothing in there is covered in enough detail for people to be deeply knowledgeable, hence the brevity. But I think is a good starting point for people trying to understand their faith better.
Welcome to reformed faith brothers and sisters.
It is short, concise and overall… brief.
Nothing in there is covered in enough detail for people to be deeply knowledgeable, hence the brevity. But I think is a good starting point for people trying to understand their faith better.
Welcome to reformed faith brothers and sisters.
April 21, 2023
This is an excellent, clear, and basic (in a good way!) introduction to Reformed theology. It answers the questions that many initially have about the Reformed approach to theology (e.g. God's sovereignty in election) but also pushes readers to consider other highly important facets of Reformed theology like covenants and confessions of faith. This is a great book for new members classes or for a church book table.
November 9, 2023
Our ladies' Bible book study enjoyed this! It was succinct and had very good study questions! Just what we needed at this time! We hope to use some of the other books in this series for further studies.
January 4, 2024
A wonderful (and short!) introduction to Reformed Theology. At only 86pgs, this is a real gem to introduce folks to the topic. It's more of a conversation starter than an exhaustive treatment, but if you have that in mind, people will be helped by it.
March 28, 2024
Really helpful and clear intro to Reformed theology. Does a good job of stating the case that Reformed theology is more than TULIP. Loved his emphasis on the covenants throughout and the final “questions on Reformed theology” section was great.
August 30, 2023
A worthwhile introduction. I have a fuller review here: https://adfontesjournal.com/miles-smi...
September 5, 2023
An excellent, succinct introduction to reformed theology.
September 11, 2023
A short book about some of the most popular questions I feel that are asked. Great way to start your search for answers.
January 8, 2024
Nice little summary on Reformed theology. Would definitely recommend to someone who’s looking into it. Master’s does a great job of boiling it down and presenting the system in a concise way.
January 24, 2024
A great summary of Reformed doctrine. This short book is a good resource to give to others to help them understand a Reformed perspective.
January 11, 2025
Great little primer on Reformed theology. Quick read.
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May 10, 2025This is a very good, easy-to-understand book--a primer of sorts. I think it's good for getting down the basics.
June 22, 2025
This book, as others in the series, is a great primer for reformed traditions. Highly recommended.
August 13, 2025
Helpful introduction.
May 2, 2024
Tidy introduction.
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