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Living for God's Glory: An Introduction to Calvinism by Joel R. Beeke
The theological system known as Calvinism is often caricatured or simply dismissed as a relic of the past. But as Dr. Joel R. Beeke shows in this comprehensive treatment, Calvinism, also known as Reformed theology, is "biblical, God-centered, heartfelt, winsome, and practical." As such, it is uniquely suited to help Christians fulfill the purpose for which they were created-to live to the glory of God.
Hardcover
First published September 12, 2008
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About the author
Joel R. Beeke
445 books345 followersDr. Joel R. Beeke serves as President and Professor of Systematic Theology, Church History, and Homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. He has been in the ministry since 1978 and has served as a pastor of his current church, Heritage Reformed Congregation, since 1986. He is also editor of the Banner of Sovereign Grace Truth, editorial director of Reformation Heritage Books, president of Inheritance Publishers, and vice-president of the Dutch Reformed Translation Society. He has written, co-authored, or edited fifty books and contributed over fifteen hundred articles to Reformed books, journals, periodicals, and encyclopedias. His Ph.D. (1988) from Westminster Theological Seminary is in Reformation and Post-Reformation Theology. He is frequently called upon to lecture at Reformed seminaries and to speak at conferences around the world. He and his wife, Mary, have three children: Calvin, Esther, and Lydia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 17, 2017
Calvinism is all the buzz these days. Last year, Time Magazine listed the rise of "The New Calvinism" as number 3 on a list of "10 Ideas Changing the World Right Now". The five points of Calvinism are gaining adherents at a rapid rate. At the same time, a deep-seated rejection of Calvinism remains popular in large swaths of evangelicalism.
When it comes to the internet, fierce debates over Calvinism are the norm. Calvinists routinely suspect the worst of their "Arminian" opponents who are often pictured as near-Pelagians. Arminians think that Calvinists tout a dour, sour-faced God who gleefully condemns people to Hell with no chance for salvation. No wonder then, that Calvinists don't evangelize.
From my vantage point, as a convert to Calvinism from a Baptist non-Calvinist viewpoint, both the Calvinist superiority complex and the Calvinism-is-of-the-devil overreaction share a common shortfall. Neither extreme really appreciates the full ramifications of Calvinism for all of life. Both have a certain amount of ignorance with respect to the history and teaching of Calvinism from the Reformation onward. A historical perspective and an appreciation for Calvinism's impact on worldview and theology beyond the rather specific and limited focus of the five points would do much good all around.
It is these reasons and more which make Joel Beeke's book Living for God's Glory: An Introduction to Calvinism such an important resource. This book is packed with material illustrating how Calvinism impacts all of life.
The book starts off with an historical treatment of the origins of what we call Calvinism and a look at several of the Reformed confessions. Then it moves on to a Scriptural defense of the teachings of Calvinism. Here we find a treatment of the 5 points of Calvinism as well as the 5 solas. We also find that the sovereignty of God, or theocentrism is the doctrinal heart and soul of Calvinism.
The book goes further and surveys the piety of Calvinism and its impact in the church. In these sections we learn a lot from the Puritans on sanctification and church life. Particular emphasis is placed on the emphasis of the role of preaching in worship, which is truly Calvinism's gift to the wider church.
The book then goes on to how Calvinism provides a "theology for all of life". I was particularly struck by this section. The discussion of a Puritan home and marriage was eye-opening. Indeed the medieval era had downplayed the physical aspects of the marital union. The clergy were above sex, or were supposed to be, and that was left for mistresses and secret elopements. The marriage wasn't about that, it was a societal convention. The Puritans took the Bible's teaching on the importance of the marital union and brought back a Biblical morality and a healthy enjoyment of physical pleasures within the confines of marriage.
I also enjoyed the chapter on vocation, and how Calvinism invests the idea of a life's calling with great significance. Political and ethical questions are also addressed from the perspective of Calvinism.
The book concludes with a chapter by Sinclair Ferguson on doxology as the end goal of Calvinism. As it was John Piper's ministry in particular that drew me toward Calvinism, I can testify that Calvinistic theology if it is actively embraced and understood should tend toward a doxological thrust in life. Everything should be seen as flowing from God's good hand, and our very salvation is a free gift of God's grace. Calvinism should make us worshipful and humble, not proud.
Joel Beeke and the other contributors to this book are to be commended for showing us how doctrine should impact all of life. They open up the horizons of contemporary Christians to see the beauty of faithful orthodox piety of previous generations. The book does get long and can be quite varied at times. But the work can be seen as an anthology from which to glean what you find interesting and helpful. I recommend this book heartily.
See an expanded version of this review, with additional content and resources, at CrossFocusedReviews.com.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Reformation Trust Publishing for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.
When it comes to the internet, fierce debates over Calvinism are the norm. Calvinists routinely suspect the worst of their "Arminian" opponents who are often pictured as near-Pelagians. Arminians think that Calvinists tout a dour, sour-faced God who gleefully condemns people to Hell with no chance for salvation. No wonder then, that Calvinists don't evangelize.
From my vantage point, as a convert to Calvinism from a Baptist non-Calvinist viewpoint, both the Calvinist superiority complex and the Calvinism-is-of-the-devil overreaction share a common shortfall. Neither extreme really appreciates the full ramifications of Calvinism for all of life. Both have a certain amount of ignorance with respect to the history and teaching of Calvinism from the Reformation onward. A historical perspective and an appreciation for Calvinism's impact on worldview and theology beyond the rather specific and limited focus of the five points would do much good all around.
It is these reasons and more which make Joel Beeke's book Living for God's Glory: An Introduction to Calvinism such an important resource. This book is packed with material illustrating how Calvinism impacts all of life.
The book starts off with an historical treatment of the origins of what we call Calvinism and a look at several of the Reformed confessions. Then it moves on to a Scriptural defense of the teachings of Calvinism. Here we find a treatment of the 5 points of Calvinism as well as the 5 solas. We also find that the sovereignty of God, or theocentrism is the doctrinal heart and soul of Calvinism.
The book goes further and surveys the piety of Calvinism and its impact in the church. In these sections we learn a lot from the Puritans on sanctification and church life. Particular emphasis is placed on the emphasis of the role of preaching in worship, which is truly Calvinism's gift to the wider church.
The book then goes on to how Calvinism provides a "theology for all of life". I was particularly struck by this section. The discussion of a Puritan home and marriage was eye-opening. Indeed the medieval era had downplayed the physical aspects of the marital union. The clergy were above sex, or were supposed to be, and that was left for mistresses and secret elopements. The marriage wasn't about that, it was a societal convention. The Puritans took the Bible's teaching on the importance of the marital union and brought back a Biblical morality and a healthy enjoyment of physical pleasures within the confines of marriage.
I also enjoyed the chapter on vocation, and how Calvinism invests the idea of a life's calling with great significance. Political and ethical questions are also addressed from the perspective of Calvinism.
The book concludes with a chapter by Sinclair Ferguson on doxology as the end goal of Calvinism. As it was John Piper's ministry in particular that drew me toward Calvinism, I can testify that Calvinistic theology if it is actively embraced and understood should tend toward a doxological thrust in life. Everything should be seen as flowing from God's good hand, and our very salvation is a free gift of God's grace. Calvinism should make us worshipful and humble, not proud.
Joel Beeke and the other contributors to this book are to be commended for showing us how doctrine should impact all of life. They open up the horizons of contemporary Christians to see the beauty of faithful orthodox piety of previous generations. The book does get long and can be quite varied at times. But the work can be seen as an anthology from which to glean what you find interesting and helpful. I recommend this book heartily.
See an expanded version of this review, with additional content and resources, at CrossFocusedReviews.com.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by Reformation Trust Publishing for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.
February 26, 2021
Heavy reading, but worthwhile overall. I especially enjoyed the chapters dealing with Calvin's focus on the Kingship of Christ and the implications of that authority.
March 29, 2020
This was an excellent collection of essays on various aspects of Calvinism and how it applies to all areas of Christian worship, theology, and practical living. Nearly every chapter was a self-contained subject and yet it all was one cohesive whole.
August 17, 2010
An excellent book that starts with the history of the Reformation and the reasons for it and takes the reader up to the present day. This book covers every aspect of Calvisism and Puritanism. From it's effects on evangilism, family living, marriage, worship and work as well as everything in between. I highly recommend this book! I feel that even the most devout Calvinist can benefit from reading this book.
August 27, 2025
A lot of us who call ourselves Christians would all scramble to say that we want to live for God’s glory. And most of that crew would point out practical ways we are doing that. Preaching, evangelizing, teaching, pastoring, missionary to other peoples, reading the Bible, Worshipping in holiness, gathering with the saints on the Lord’s day, and everything else we could fill out our spiritual bingo cards with. But as Beeke shows throughout this work (whether this was his goal or not, it is what I drew out of it), the doctrines of grace, or Calvinism, guarantees this will be the result. Our lives bring glory to God both in our lives of holiness or our eternal judgment.
That sounds like a really odd thing to claim, that God gets glory regardless of my actions, but this must be true or God is not receiving maximum glory. Whether I live in such a way that would make my grandmother blush (this has happened), or in such a way that my pastor thanks God for sending him such a holy man to his congregation (this has not), God is receiving glory. If I can do something that lessens God’s glory, then he is not altogether glorious. If you’ve stayed on the raft with me thus far, then the next obvious questions arise that Beeke explores here in this book. Why do some not live to glorify God and others do? Why do come to Christ and others reject him? Why does the Bible seem to say that God only died on behalf of an elect? Can I lose my salvation after God regenerates me? These are typical Calvinism questions, but Beeke gives non-typical answers that are intensely practical and full of puritan wisdom and truth.
That sounds like a really odd thing to claim, that God gets glory regardless of my actions, but this must be true or God is not receiving maximum glory. Whether I live in such a way that would make my grandmother blush (this has happened), or in such a way that my pastor thanks God for sending him such a holy man to his congregation (this has not), God is receiving glory. If I can do something that lessens God’s glory, then he is not altogether glorious. If you’ve stayed on the raft with me thus far, then the next obvious questions arise that Beeke explores here in this book. Why do some not live to glorify God and others do? Why do come to Christ and others reject him? Why does the Bible seem to say that God only died on behalf of an elect? Can I lose my salvation after God regenerates me? These are typical Calvinism questions, but Beeke gives non-typical answers that are intensely practical and full of puritan wisdom and truth.
October 9, 2017
Best introduction to the Reformed faith I have ever read.
Read
March 30, 2020I read this many years ago but I could benefit from reading it again.
July 2, 2009
Some of the most compelling Calvinistic reading I've done in over a decade.
May 27, 2013
Excellent and very practical
September 17, 2022
This was a fine introduction to Calvin's teachings. And if a reader wants an introduction to Calvinist teachings or a refresher on its basic tenets, this is a fine book. My primary issue with the book, however, is that it was really more of an introduction to John Calvin's teachings than to Calvinism in general. While the title claims it's about Calvinism, Beeke mainly sources Calvin and talks about what Calvin specifically argued. And that's fine for a book about Calvin. But for a book that purports to be about Reformed thought/Calvinism in general, it was disappointing to see Beeke regularly going back to Calvin specifically.
Occasionally, you'd get some nods to the Puritans. And some of the other writers didn't fall into this trap as much. But since Beeke wrote the majority of this book, I found this to be the case with most of the chapters.
I normally love Beeke's writings--and this would have been fine and good as an introduction to Calvin's theology. But the hyper-focus on Calvin limited the book's potential in my opinion.
Rating: 3 Stars (Fairly Good).
Occasionally, you'd get some nods to the Puritans. And some of the other writers didn't fall into this trap as much. But since Beeke wrote the majority of this book, I found this to be the case with most of the chapters.
I normally love Beeke's writings--and this would have been fine and good as an introduction to Calvin's theology. But the hyper-focus on Calvin limited the book's potential in my opinion.
Rating: 3 Stars (Fairly Good).
May 30, 2025
If I were still teaching high-schoolers, I would add this book immediately as required reading for Church History and worldview studies. It is clear and well-written and logically organized to build a deeper understanding of the history, meaning, and impact of Calvinism on our lives today, ending right where it should —-with doxology.
I would not rush my students through, but rather, spread the reading across four semesters so that there is plenty of time to discuss the questions (provided at the end of each chapter), as well as questions and observations that will arise across the disciplines as my students are reading.
Other reviewers have described the book’s contents beautifully, and spoken of its excellent treatment of the subject. This is a superb resource for dads and moms so that when conversations come up, they can answer with the wisdom and beauty that Dr. Beeke and the other contributors have exemplified so well in this extremely helpful book.
I absolutely loved it and highly recommend.
I would not rush my students through, but rather, spread the reading across four semesters so that there is plenty of time to discuss the questions (provided at the end of each chapter), as well as questions and observations that will arise across the disciplines as my students are reading.
Other reviewers have described the book’s contents beautifully, and spoken of its excellent treatment of the subject. This is a superb resource for dads and moms so that when conversations come up, they can answer with the wisdom and beauty that Dr. Beeke and the other contributors have exemplified so well in this extremely helpful book.
I absolutely loved it and highly recommend.
December 6, 2021
Essa obra è sem igual. Profunda, clara e impactante para quem deseja entender a teologia reformada (calvinista).
Nela encontramos o amplo alcance da teologia calvinista. Como ela surge, como ela impacta a mente, o coração, a igreja, nas diversas esferas da vida (política, família, trabalho ..) e como ela nos leva à doxologia.
Ser reformado, nas palavras de Joel Beek “significa enfatizar o abrangente, soberano e amoroso senhorio de Deus sobre todas as coisas: cada área da criação, todos os esforços das criaturas e cada aspecto da vida do crente.” (p. 57)
Nela encontramos o amplo alcance da teologia calvinista. Como ela surge, como ela impacta a mente, o coração, a igreja, nas diversas esferas da vida (política, família, trabalho ..) e como ela nos leva à doxologia.
Ser reformado, nas palavras de Joel Beek “significa enfatizar o abrangente, soberano e amoroso senhorio de Deus sobre todas as coisas: cada área da criação, todos os esforços das criaturas e cada aspecto da vida do crente.” (p. 57)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2022
Great basic intro to those who want to know what Calvinism teaches. Lots of comparison work to other theological positions (particularly Arminianism). This book does what it claims. It will give you a good snap shot of the beliefs that were built on Calvin’s theological leanings, mainly the Sovereignty of God. It’s a good kick starter for those interested. One thing it doesn’t do is spend a significant time on the foundations of the reformation that formed Calvin’s theological leanings.
July 22, 2024
Fantastisk bok som gir en god introduksjon til reformert teologi, og mer spesifikt calvinisme. Her kan du lese om alt ifra historien til dens opprinnelse, samt hvordan teologien kan implementeres i det kristne livet. I tillegg tar boken opp misforståelser rundt calvinisme, og gir nyanserte forklaringer på hvorfor våre reformerte forfedre holdt til denne kontroversielle teologien. Veldig verdt å lese!!!!
February 4, 2019
It's okay. Very good as an introduction to the Reformed faith. I would recommend this to family or friends who are asking questions about it. Rather well fleshed out but not exactly in-depth. If you are already made your acquaintance with Calvinism this is probably not worth the time as it isn't exactly short. Good writing though.
October 27, 2019
A good summary of Calvinism in both theology and practice. Of course, the baptist in me has some disagreements here and there and wishes there was more information on the particular Baptist movement. Overall, worth reading if you are interested in a general overview of post-Reformation history and theology.
March 28, 2020
It's always better to learn something from the sourse. That's why I read a book on calvinism from a calvinist and not someone else. A very thourough representation which happens to be the basics of everything a believer holds on to. The book was a little boring to me in some parts, but overall it helped me to glorify God more.
April 20, 2025
"To be reformed means to be Theocentric"
Wow! Learned so much from this and will definitely read it again when I get the chance. I love the different categories that are covered and the balance between historical context and practical application. Definitely worth reading if you have any interest in Calvin, the Puritans or just the Reformed faith in general.
Wow! Learned so much from this and will definitely read it again when I get the chance. I love the different categories that are covered and the balance between historical context and practical application. Definitely worth reading if you have any interest in Calvin, the Puritans or just the Reformed faith in general.
June 17, 2018
Very challenging and thought provoking.
October 28, 2019
Good Book. .
A good book for those interested in Reformed Theology and as an introduction to the Reformed Faith. Highly recommended this volume.
A good book for those interested in Reformed Theology and as an introduction to the Reformed Faith. Highly recommended this volume.
January 3, 2020
A wonderful overview and synopsis of Calvinistic teachings, Living for God's Glory captures the essence of the Genevan Reformer's goal in prioritizing the glory of God within the believer's walk.
September 10, 2020
It is so great to read a book on Calvinism that isn't limited to the five points.
January 20, 2023
Great book on introducing Calvinism and its implications. It's probably a bit of a dry read though for some looking to be introduced to this topic.
September 18, 2023
O carte pe care am savurat-o de la primele pagini. O recomand.
January 15, 2024
Uma das melhores coisas que eu já li, difícil recomendar outra coisa para quem quer conhecer a fé reformada, está dando os primeiros passos na fé cristã, e até para aqueles que já são maduros.
October 27, 2013
Living for God's Glory is a great read. It was very informative and well organized. It also seemed very comprehensive. There was so much examined and explored within it. Much more than an exploration of TULIP and the five solas. For example, it includes centuries worth of church history.
Some chapters I really loved, loved, loved. Some chapters I learned from. When it was good, it was excellent. However, I must admit that some of the chapters were skim-worthy. The interest level just wasn't there for me. And some chapters I felt lacked a bit of relevancy--containing information that was good to know but not quite *essential* to know.
What I loved best was the writing. The BEST section of the entire book was "Calvinism in the Mind." The chapters include: "The Marrow of Calvinism," "Total Depravity," "Unconditional Election, "The Extent of the Atonement," "Definite Atonement," Irresistible Grace and Effectual Calling," "Perseverance and Assurance," "Scripture, Grace, Faith, Christ, and Glory" and "Philosophical Calvinism." These chapters--perhaps with the exception of Philosophical Calvinism--were absolutely AMAZING.
Other chapters I enjoyed include "Calvin's God-Exalting Piety," "Sanctification in Puritan Thought," "Sanctification in Puritan Practice," "The Origins of Calvinism," "Calvin's Evangelism," "Puritan Evangelism," and "Confessing The Faith."
This book would be a great textbook perhaps!
Some chapters I really loved, loved, loved. Some chapters I learned from. When it was good, it was excellent. However, I must admit that some of the chapters were skim-worthy. The interest level just wasn't there for me. And some chapters I felt lacked a bit of relevancy--containing information that was good to know but not quite *essential* to know.
What I loved best was the writing. The BEST section of the entire book was "Calvinism in the Mind." The chapters include: "The Marrow of Calvinism," "Total Depravity," "Unconditional Election, "The Extent of the Atonement," "Definite Atonement," Irresistible Grace and Effectual Calling," "Perseverance and Assurance," "Scripture, Grace, Faith, Christ, and Glory" and "Philosophical Calvinism." These chapters--perhaps with the exception of Philosophical Calvinism--were absolutely AMAZING.
Other chapters I enjoyed include "Calvin's God-Exalting Piety," "Sanctification in Puritan Thought," "Sanctification in Puritan Practice," "The Origins of Calvinism," "Calvin's Evangelism," "Puritan Evangelism," and "Confessing The Faith."
This book would be a great textbook perhaps!
May 14, 2015
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reformation Trust in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoy theology. I know that theology is not one of the subjects that many flock to study. It can be deep, heady, and at times combative.
Having said that, I have run into Calvinism on more than one occasion while studying. I had to admit to myself that my understanding of John Calvin and his teachings was rather elementary.
Outside of T.U.L.I.P. and the disagreements between Calvinists and of his most popular opponent Jakob Hermanszoon (aka Jacobus Arminius) I knew very little of Calvinism.
Living for God's Glory by Joel R. Beeke has done a marvelous job of educating me on the teachigns of Calvinism. This book has not only cleared up some matters for me by way of explanation but also expounded on the teachings of John Calvin and how they played out in the life of Christian.
The book is divided into four sections: the mind, the heart, the family life, and the church. Understanding that Calvinism is about bring God glory and that doing so is not relegated to the church only was profound and challenging. I found myself appreciating the depth of respect Calvin had for God and His glory.
This is a book I hope to read again and perhaps use as a devotional to really inspire me to live for God's glory as Calvin hoped his teaching would bring to fruition.
I enjoy theology. I know that theology is not one of the subjects that many flock to study. It can be deep, heady, and at times combative.
Having said that, I have run into Calvinism on more than one occasion while studying. I had to admit to myself that my understanding of John Calvin and his teachings was rather elementary.
Outside of T.U.L.I.P. and the disagreements between Calvinists and of his most popular opponent Jakob Hermanszoon (aka Jacobus Arminius) I knew very little of Calvinism.
Living for God's Glory by Joel R. Beeke has done a marvelous job of educating me on the teachigns of Calvinism. This book has not only cleared up some matters for me by way of explanation but also expounded on the teachings of John Calvin and how they played out in the life of Christian.
The book is divided into four sections: the mind, the heart, the family life, and the church. Understanding that Calvinism is about bring God glory and that doing so is not relegated to the church only was profound and challenging. I found myself appreciating the depth of respect Calvin had for God and His glory.
This is a book I hope to read again and perhaps use as a devotional to really inspire me to live for God's glory as Calvin hoped his teaching would bring to fruition.
October 9, 2012
A warm, sympathetic work on Calvinism (and the Puritans.) The first section of the book explores the traditional "Five Points of Calvinism", countering common objections and caricatures. The other sections of the book seek to relate Calvinism to every area of life, from personal piety to epistemology. Each chapter also ends with discussion questions to aid personal reflection and interaction with others. The book is a wealth of quotations and reflections, which add to its overall devotional and practical nature.
Since the chapters in this volume are written from multiple contributors the overall quality tends rise and fall with each contributing author.
One need not agree with everything here to benefit from it. This book shows what holiness on fire looks like. It shows us holiness with a heart (with passion). It's been awhile since something this theological has been this devotional, and for that alone readers can be grateful.
Since the chapters in this volume are written from multiple contributors the overall quality tends rise and fall with each contributing author.
One need not agree with everything here to benefit from it. This book shows what holiness on fire looks like. It shows us holiness with a heart (with passion). It's been awhile since something this theological has been this devotional, and for that alone readers can be grateful.
January 2, 2010
Living for God's Glory is an excellent book on the theology and implications of calvinism for all the Christian life. Beeke does an excellent job of an overview of the 5 points and their historical background. The best sections reading, for myself, were the chapters dealing with the Puritan views of sanctification, the church, and marriage and family life. Throughout the book, wwe are constantly reminded of the goal of calvinism - all glory to God.
This is a really good book, for those wondering what calvinism is and how it affects Christian experience, as well as those who have been long time calvinist.
This is a really good book, for those wondering what calvinism is and how it affects Christian experience, as well as those who have been long time calvinist.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews