Foundations of Wesleyan-Arminian Theology by Mildred Bangs Wynkoop

by Mildred Bangs Wynkoop

Herein is a most discriminating study of the basic differences between historic Calvinism and Arminianism and the developments in both theological traditions that have created the mounting barriers to the understanding of each other’s position. Dr. Wynkoop deals authoritatively with the critical issues, and incisively cuts through the prevalent fuzzy theological concepts, but all with delicacy and understanding. The monumental contribution of John Wesley in defining the doctrine of sanctification is a key emphasis in the book, along with the central issue of Christian assurance. Paper.

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Christianity, Church, Christian, Reference

Paperback

First published July 25, 1972

Reviews

[Benjamin Lawrence Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, some great parts, but not overall great.

Definitely helpful in clarifying the macro and micro differences in Calvinism and Arminianism. And helpful in my articulation of my view 👀

Good intro, exited to read more.

[Ferrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I had come across this book years ago. It clearly explicates Wesleyan-Arminian theology and reveals the grave theological challenges created by Calvinism in its varied forms. Excellent!

[the_storied_life (Joyce Santiago) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s hard to rate books like this. This book is definitely a cerebral workout to the general reader, but I found that it really helped me understand this theological perspective.

[Joshua Pearsall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is a full article I wrote on this book. https://wp.me/pewezH-6n

Here is the shorter review, and I ask both Arminian & reformed to read the article & book!

This book cuts to the heart of predestination & how it is the root of the debate. It impacts (or is impacted) our view of God’s decrees & how He has chosen to rule as a truly Sovereign God [which the Bible clearly teaches He does do], if His decrees have conditions or not, what is man’s moral agency & how limited is it [for it is clearly limited in some ways], sanctification, election, assurance of salvation, the works of the Holy Spirit, human nature, how salvation is accomplished, and much more. This book addresses the root of the issue all the way back to the early Church, & to the modern day critiques Arminians have had & still have of Reformed theology. It notes how there are different strands of Calvinism, and like the different Arminian strands they aren’t exactly the same. It is a great starting point for any Reformed or Arminian looking to delve into dialoguing between the two traditions. And I hope when you get to the end of this book it leaves you like me, just wanting to say Yes to the Lord and give up praise & thanks for His servants in every tradition, His grace, & His promises!

[Elizabeth]

DNF'd @ 30%. Good read but too theologically dense for me right now.

[Benjamin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely a clear, simple, not-too-long, introduction to the historical development of both Calvinist and Wesleyan-Arminian theology. Unfortunately, professor Wynkoop lets her dislike for Calvinism bleed into her content in inappropriate and biasing ways, quoting certain positions unfavorably or selecting unrepresentative quotes from various figures. In general, she is charitable to the average Calvinist, and is accurate in what she herself says. I mainly fault her in the manner in which she draws from other sources.

I think this is a great book for a Calvinist to read to understand true Wesleyanism better. Who better from whom to get a simple overview of Wesleyan theology than Mildred Bangs Wynkoop? Well, there may be someone, but she does an excellent job. Just don't rely on her for your complete understanding of Calvinist theology.

[Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Innumerable books hotly debate the differences between Calvinism and Arminianism. Foundations of Wesleyan-Arminian Theology is unique in that Wynkoop explains those differences in a gracious way. This is an excellent book for theology students. If only there were one like it for lay people.

[Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Halfway through I would have gone three stars - it meanders in places, some of the distinctions she tries to describe are not clearly demarcated, and it is very dated in places. But when it is on, it sings, and it closes very beautifully.

[Daniel Chavis, Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Sound

This book in my opinion is a very sound approach to a theological understanding of sanctification. I recommend it to any serious student of theology.

[Chris Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a helpful, concise work on the differences between Calvinism and Wesleyanism. It packs quite a punch for its 130 pages.

[Adam Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal look at the chasms between Reformed and Arminian theology.

[Luke Mohnasky · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't have thoughts on this book. My reactions in the margins are emotional responses to hearing familiar evangelical jargon throughout the years, those words that are loaded with shameful meanings for me and those I care about. Phrases like "revival, saved, lost, justified" make me gag. I believe these theologies are harmful in our context. It may be better to turn to Christian mystics and artists.

Frequently, theologies reveal inward schemas—exposing wounds we have. In the case of Calvin, Arminius, and Wesley, I am curious about their histories and what wounds they reckoned with. An old theologian said, "we become who our gods are", and I think that is important to ask in studying these people. Are they becoming people who tend toward humility and loving-kindness, or are they becoming more exclusive and harmful?

[Shelldog42 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm about 2/3 done with this book, and I love it! This book has been the most informative I've read on the subject, helping me to see the schisms in doctrine more clearly, why they have arisen historically and where the tensions lie between beliefs. The fundamental and central tenet of this book is that our basic philosophical assumptions inform our theology, and therefore it is essential to dig down to what these basic assumptions are within each camp, and analyze whether or not they align with the Bible. I think it might be helpful for Calvinists to read to better understand opposing views so that we might further dialogue and experience greater unity within the church.

[Amie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this first in seminary, and have just reread it as part of my devotional reading. It is a great book to explain, basically, why I'm not a calvinist. =)

[Nathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple and clear introduction.