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Killing Calvinism: How to Destroy a Perfectly Good Theology from the Inside
Something wonderful is happening in Western Evangelicalism. A resurgence of Calvinism is changing lives, transforming churches, and spreading the gospel. The books are great, the sermons are life-changing, the music is inspirational, and the conferences are astonishing. Will this continue or will we, who are part of it all, end up destroying it? That depends on how we live the message. As "insiders" of the Calvinist resurgence, there are at least eight ways we can mess everything up. -By loving calvinism as an end in itself -By becoming theologians instead of disciples -By loving God’s sovereignty more than God himself -By losing an urgency in evangelism -By refusing to learn from non-Calvinists -By tidying up the Bible’s “loose ends” -By being a bunch of arrogant know-it-alls -By scoffing at the emotional hang-ups others have with Calvinism
120 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
May 3, 2025
This is a very good book. The author honestly evaluates many who hold to Calvinism (I really don't like that term - I prefer to refer to it as the Pauline or Biblical doctrine of grace), showing that part of the reason for resistance to the doctrine is the arrogance of those who hold to it. I prefer to talk first about God's perfect knowledge and sovereignty. We must humbly admit that we don't know as much about God as we think we do, and we simply have to believe what the Bible says, even if it doesn't track with what we think God is like.
The book is not an explanation of the doctrine of election, but is written to those of us who believe it and encourages us to be gentle and patient when sharing what we believe. We need to remember the struggle we had when we first heard it.
The book is not an explanation of the doctrine of election, but is written to those of us who believe it and encourages us to be gentle and patient when sharing what we believe. We need to remember the struggle we had when we first heard it.
March 9, 2025
Having been a calvinist and attending calvinist churches as far back as I can remember (without giving away my age: DECADES) I can vouch for this book hitting the nail on the head. Personally, many of the criticisms of sins and attitudes that the “reformed” crowd tends towards are things I’m very guilty of, and need to watch out for and repent of. Critical, cold, proud? Check, check, check. OUCH. What Dutcher points out here are also, from regrettable experience, things that drive people out of Calvinism and away from Christianity altogether. Of the young people I grew up with, very few are currently regular churchgoers… I certainly think the church’s cold, heartless approach may have been a contributing factor there.
This book does NOT throw Calvinism under the bus altogether, and he often affirms how wonderful the doctrines of grace are, how true they are, how biblical, and how they’re really just a nickname for the Gospel, as Spurgeon put it. But there is something about reformed theology that appeals to the cranial, rational, critical side and so he rightly points out the pitfalls we may tend towards.
This book would be great for every calvinist to read, whether they’re newly in the “cage stage” or they’ve been in reformed churches for many years. A valuable and short read. Highly recommended.
This book does NOT throw Calvinism under the bus altogether, and he often affirms how wonderful the doctrines of grace are, how true they are, how biblical, and how they’re really just a nickname for the Gospel, as Spurgeon put it. But there is something about reformed theology that appeals to the cranial, rational, critical side and so he rightly points out the pitfalls we may tend towards.
This book would be great for every calvinist to read, whether they’re newly in the “cage stage” or they’ve been in reformed churches for many years. A valuable and short read. Highly recommended.
July 21, 2025
Guilty of so many of these harmful habits, yet God in his goodness has slowly been chipping away at my pride. This book was both convicting and encouraging in that "I'm getting there". It highlighted behaviors I intuitively knew were wrong in both myself and fellow Calvanists, but I couldn't quit put my finger on it or see with such clarity.
Over the course of the years I have frankly become embarrassed to admit I am a Calvanist for the very reasons discussed in Killing Calvanism. A "closet Calvanist" if you will, it's the last thing I declare. I don't want to be known as a Calvanist. Instead I want my identity to be wrapped up in Christ's salvation and loving those around me, not squashing them, rather than a theology.
Simple. Concise. Impactful.
Over the course of the years I have frankly become embarrassed to admit I am a Calvanist for the very reasons discussed in Killing Calvanism. A "closet Calvanist" if you will, it's the last thing I declare. I don't want to be known as a Calvanist. Instead I want my identity to be wrapped up in Christ's salvation and loving those around me, not squashing them, rather than a theology.
Simple. Concise. Impactful.
July 13, 2012
Overall I was encouraged and admonished by what I read in Killing Calvinism. We reformed folk need this kind of prodding. Honestly, all Christians every where need books like this. The idea would make a compelling series--Killing Arminianism, Killing the Gifts, etc. Just a thought Cruciform. No patent pending.
I found an insider's critique refreshing. Dutcher is one of us. I found his admonition fatherly. Almost like Solomon giving his son final instructions. For instance, Dutcher admonishes,
I sometimes fear that if we all just stay holed up in our bunkers, we will end up killing the revival of Calvinism in our midst. . . . We must not give current and future generations plausible reasons to reject the very essence of Christianity that we believe Calvinism represents.
That is, if we don’t live our Calvinism, we might just kill it. (Kindle Locations 129-135)
If I could sum up the book in one sentence it would be this: “But we cross a line when we are more focused on mastering theology than on being mastered by Christ” (Kindle Location 302). Yes! We must be mastered by Christ.
I heartily amened all eight points but I found some of his illustrations unhelpful which in some instances lessened the impact of the point. Two examples. First, he argues we should learn from other theological traditions (amen! Count me as a Calvinist who loves the Wesley’s). He tells a story about hearing an interview with Bill Hybles on the radio and feeling encouraged by something he said. This idea is great but we need to develop it more. Just because its good to learn from others does necessitate that I should read every Hybles book to fish for the pearl amongst the mud.
Or for instance I won’t waste my time reading Charles Finney just because I’m sure he has said something right. However, I will gladly read the Wesley's and Fred Sanders who are Arminians. Reformed theology has a robust doctrine of common grace which acknowledges that all truth is God’s truth. Dutcher actually has some helpful clarifications on his blog “How Essential Is Calvinism in Our Unity with Other Christians?”
One other example worth noting was the story he told in chapter six (“By Tidying Up the Bible’s Loose Ends”). He retells the story of a small group discussion which focused on 2 Peter 2:1 where Peter talks about false teachers and says “denying the Master who bought them.” He contrasts a few people who expressed puzzlement and the one who says, “[I]t doesn’t matter because we know that Jesus died only for the elect” (Kindle Locations 946-947). Granted it does matter but this example is poor.
Outside of the “it doesn’t matter” because it does, his general interpretation is right. Good exegesis interprets the unclear by the clear and single passages in light of all the bible. So while the guy’s answer is certainly flippant it’s right to argue that we know Jesus died for only the elect so that rules out x interpretation. Also, we know people make false professions where they claim Christ but do not possess saving faith. In the OT, many Israelites were within the covenant community who was redeemed out Egypt and it rightly could have been said of them that they denied the Lord who bought them. A better example in my opinion might be the lapsarianism debate.
Just two example where clarification and a better example might have proved helpful in making a stronger case. I’m nitpicking here but those were my only two concerns (if you can even call it that).
The meat of the book is USDA prime. For a group of elders who are seeking to preach and minister within the reformed faith Killing Calvinism would be fantastic read. It might also provide a loving kick in the pants for that recovering in-your-face Calvinist in your life. The chapters are concise and to the point. Each chapter offers one main thought and moves the argument along without losing focus. And at the end of each chapter Dutcher offers a prayer. I loved this feature and prayed these prayers. It’s really a devotional styled book.
I found an insider's critique refreshing. Dutcher is one of us. I found his admonition fatherly. Almost like Solomon giving his son final instructions. For instance, Dutcher admonishes,
I sometimes fear that if we all just stay holed up in our bunkers, we will end up killing the revival of Calvinism in our midst. . . . We must not give current and future generations plausible reasons to reject the very essence of Christianity that we believe Calvinism represents.
That is, if we don’t live our Calvinism, we might just kill it. (Kindle Locations 129-135)
If I could sum up the book in one sentence it would be this: “But we cross a line when we are more focused on mastering theology than on being mastered by Christ” (Kindle Location 302). Yes! We must be mastered by Christ.
I heartily amened all eight points but I found some of his illustrations unhelpful which in some instances lessened the impact of the point. Two examples. First, he argues we should learn from other theological traditions (amen! Count me as a Calvinist who loves the Wesley’s). He tells a story about hearing an interview with Bill Hybles on the radio and feeling encouraged by something he said. This idea is great but we need to develop it more. Just because its good to learn from others does necessitate that I should read every Hybles book to fish for the pearl amongst the mud.
Or for instance I won’t waste my time reading Charles Finney just because I’m sure he has said something right. However, I will gladly read the Wesley's and Fred Sanders who are Arminians. Reformed theology has a robust doctrine of common grace which acknowledges that all truth is God’s truth. Dutcher actually has some helpful clarifications on his blog “How Essential Is Calvinism in Our Unity with Other Christians?”
One other example worth noting was the story he told in chapter six (“By Tidying Up the Bible’s Loose Ends”). He retells the story of a small group discussion which focused on 2 Peter 2:1 where Peter talks about false teachers and says “denying the Master who bought them.” He contrasts a few people who expressed puzzlement and the one who says, “[I]t doesn’t matter because we know that Jesus died only for the elect” (Kindle Locations 946-947). Granted it does matter but this example is poor.
Outside of the “it doesn’t matter” because it does, his general interpretation is right. Good exegesis interprets the unclear by the clear and single passages in light of all the bible. So while the guy’s answer is certainly flippant it’s right to argue that we know Jesus died for only the elect so that rules out x interpretation. Also, we know people make false professions where they claim Christ but do not possess saving faith. In the OT, many Israelites were within the covenant community who was redeemed out Egypt and it rightly could have been said of them that they denied the Lord who bought them. A better example in my opinion might be the lapsarianism debate.
Just two example where clarification and a better example might have proved helpful in making a stronger case. I’m nitpicking here but those were my only two concerns (if you can even call it that).
The meat of the book is USDA prime. For a group of elders who are seeking to preach and minister within the reformed faith Killing Calvinism would be fantastic read. It might also provide a loving kick in the pants for that recovering in-your-face Calvinist in your life. The chapters are concise and to the point. Each chapter offers one main thought and moves the argument along without losing focus. And at the end of each chapter Dutcher offers a prayer. I loved this feature and prayed these prayers. It’s really a devotional styled book.
June 6, 2012
Pretty new to Calvinsim myself, I appreciate the clarifications of what Calvinism is (the sovereignity of God in Salvation) and the pit falls of the lens of Calvinism. I have read one other book of Dutcher and I appreciate his candor and his reflection of his own short-comings. We can learn from them. Whatever label you put yourself under. What attracts me to Calvin lens, is God's sovereignity but also has Dutcher has pointed out that doctrine (truth) that comes from God, leads to God, and the promotion of the holiness of who God is a proclaimation of who God is in his majesty. He also warns us that we can cross the line when we are more focused on mastering theology than on being mastered by Christ. In all things there is a balance. Each Chapter focuses on what we can do in our sinfulness that kills our efforts in sharing our Calvinistic views but also shares how it can be misunderstood. I so much appreciated each prayer at the end of the chapters. A true heart cry.
July 19, 2012
Good book. I agree with what Dutcher had to say, and he says it well. I think I'm mostly out of the "Cage stage," hopefully, so the application may be a little less necessary now than it was then. But, some good reminders. Mostly that Christianity, and Calvinism included as it is according to Spurgeon just a name for the proper understanding of the Gospel, produces love, humility, and a desire to spread the glory of God and salvation to man kind.
May 16, 2017
I am not a Calvinist, but I am one who has been hurt by those in the reformed camp. I thought this book might help clear away any misconceptions I may have, and help me see the "doctrines of grace" in a new light.
I still have some serious difficulties with this way of thinking, but I am glad to see a brother in christ tackle some of the issues within Calvinism from the inside. A much needed, and well written book.
I still have some serious difficulties with this way of thinking, but I am glad to see a brother in christ tackle some of the issues within Calvinism from the inside. A much needed, and well written book.
May 5, 2022
Super humbling! Especially so coming from a hardcore cage-stager.
Honestly, a recommended read for anyone remotely interested in Calvinism.
Honestly, a recommended read for anyone remotely interested in Calvinism.
June 23, 2025
Killing Calvinism surprised me—in the best way. As a Reformed Baptist who loves robust theology, I expected this book to be a critique of Calvinism from the outside. Instead, it’s a loving rebuke from the inside, aimed at those of us who believe in God’s sovereign grace but sometimes represent it poorly. Greg Dutcher is both pastor and brother in Christ, and he writes with humility, clarity, and conviction. He doesn’t attack Calvinist theology—in fact, he affirms it strongly. But he does expose the pride, coldness, and argumentative spirit that can so easily attach itself to the truths we claim to cherish. His list of “eight ways we kill Calvinism” isn’t theoretical—it’s painfully real. I’ve seen them. I’ve lived them.
Dutcher lovingly calls us to model the grace we believe in. He shows that our orthodoxy must be matched by orthopraxy—right living rooted in the gospel. This book is full of pastoral wisdom, Scripture, and practical application. Several chapters really hit home: “We fail to pursue Jesus passionately.” We can be so busy parsing doctrine that we forget to commune with Christ. “We love the system more than the Savior.” Calvinism is a lens, not the end. Jesus is the end. “We use truth as a weapon.” Truth must be wielded in love, or it misrepresents the very God it reveals.
If I have one critique, it’s that the book is short, and I occasionally wished for deeper engagement with some points. A bit more interaction with Scripture and historical Reformed voices would have added richness. But its brevity is also part of its power—it’s accessible, sharp, and convicting.
Favorite quote: “It is possible to hold the doctrines of grace in our heads and yet have hearts untouched by their beauty.”
Killing Calvinism is for anyone who believes in the doctrines of grace but is honest enough to admit we sometimes weaponize them. This book isn’t an attack on Calvinism; it’s a plea for grace to flow as freely from us as it did to us. As a Reformed Baptist, this book sharpened me, convicted me, and left me praying: “Lord, let my theology make me gentle, joyful, and Christlike.” Highly recommended—for every Calvinist, especially the passionate and the newly convinced.
Dutcher lovingly calls us to model the grace we believe in. He shows that our orthodoxy must be matched by orthopraxy—right living rooted in the gospel. This book is full of pastoral wisdom, Scripture, and practical application. Several chapters really hit home: “We fail to pursue Jesus passionately.” We can be so busy parsing doctrine that we forget to commune with Christ. “We love the system more than the Savior.” Calvinism is a lens, not the end. Jesus is the end. “We use truth as a weapon.” Truth must be wielded in love, or it misrepresents the very God it reveals.
If I have one critique, it’s that the book is short, and I occasionally wished for deeper engagement with some points. A bit more interaction with Scripture and historical Reformed voices would have added richness. But its brevity is also part of its power—it’s accessible, sharp, and convicting.
Favorite quote: “It is possible to hold the doctrines of grace in our heads and yet have hearts untouched by their beauty.”
Killing Calvinism is for anyone who believes in the doctrines of grace but is honest enough to admit we sometimes weaponize them. This book isn’t an attack on Calvinism; it’s a plea for grace to flow as freely from us as it did to us. As a Reformed Baptist, this book sharpened me, convicted me, and left me praying: “Lord, let my theology make me gentle, joyful, and Christlike.” Highly recommended—for every Calvinist, especially the passionate and the newly convinced.
December 9, 2013
Good read for those of us who are prideful Calvinists.
"When we refuse to let our theology dictate Scripture, we are free to live with large doses of paradox. We are not afraid of passages that emphasize the need for good works. We do not feel awkward about verses that call on everyone to make a choice and take a stand for the Lord. Instead, we are free to put all of our hope in our sovereign God while striving to follow everything he has commanded us to do and be."
-page 74
"Christ intends that we would be actively engaged in being "with him" so that he might make us less and less like ourselves and more and more like himself. Our Calvinism should lead us to an overpowering sense that our lives are not our own. We were chosen not to pursue our own agenda but his! We should be actively committed to "work out [our] own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in [us], both to will and to work for his good pleasure" (Philippians 2:12-13)."
-page 32
"I am ashamed to say that I lived a number of Christian years more as a theologian than a disciple. My spiritual life was rooted in one grand passion: to become a better Calvinist. I devoured books, listened to sermons and, like a strung-out Grateful Dead groupie, chased after every Reformed conference I could find."
-page 28
"When we refuse to let our theology dictate Scripture, we are free to live with large doses of paradox. We are not afraid of passages that emphasize the need for good works. We do not feel awkward about verses that call on everyone to make a choice and take a stand for the Lord. Instead, we are free to put all of our hope in our sovereign God while striving to follow everything he has commanded us to do and be."
-page 74
"Christ intends that we would be actively engaged in being "with him" so that he might make us less and less like ourselves and more and more like himself. Our Calvinism should lead us to an overpowering sense that our lives are not our own. We were chosen not to pursue our own agenda but his! We should be actively committed to "work out [our] own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in [us], both to will and to work for his good pleasure" (Philippians 2:12-13)."
-page 32
"I am ashamed to say that I lived a number of Christian years more as a theologian than a disciple. My spiritual life was rooted in one grand passion: to become a better Calvinist. I devoured books, listened to sermons and, like a strung-out Grateful Dead groupie, chased after every Reformed conference I could find."
-page 28
March 1, 2013
This is definitely less a book on Calvinism and more a book on the flaws of many self-proclaimed Calvinists. Overall, Dutcher does a great job showing how many early Calvinists begin (arrogance, out to prove election, etc). I saw many examples that portrayed me not too many years ago and several others showed areas where I still struggle. If you think you have crossed the line, I recommend reading this short book.
August 4, 2025
I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. It is indeed pride-crushing.
Here are my take-aways:
1. Calvinism is not an end in itself. It should be a means to see the beauty of Christ and become more like Him.
2. "We cross the line when we are more mastered by theology than being mastered by Christ." - Greg Dutcher
3. Calvinists should talk of all the excellencies of God and not just overemphasize the Sovereignty of God.
4. Calvinism should fuel the desire to share the gospel to the lost.
5. Calvinist should not shut their ears to those who differ with them theologically (especially on secondary doctrines) Instead, they should be quick to hear and slow to speak.
6. If we should suspect, I must suspect our motivations first. We must examine our hearts frequently. Let the Scripture speak of itself.
7. Calvinist should be careful to read the Scriptures through their theological lenses. They should be men and women who are committed to Scriptures as the ultimate authority.
8. We don't know it all. Therefore, we should be more patient, gentle and humble to others like our Savior Jesus Christ is to us.
"𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 “𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘮” 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 “𝘸𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘤𝘩” 𝘢𝘴 “𝘷𝘪𝘭𝘦” 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘶𝘨, 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦?" - Greg Dutcher
I would highly recommend this book!
Here are my take-aways:
1. Calvinism is not an end in itself. It should be a means to see the beauty of Christ and become more like Him.
2. "We cross the line when we are more mastered by theology than being mastered by Christ." - Greg Dutcher
3. Calvinists should talk of all the excellencies of God and not just overemphasize the Sovereignty of God.
4. Calvinism should fuel the desire to share the gospel to the lost.
5. Calvinist should not shut their ears to those who differ with them theologically (especially on secondary doctrines) Instead, they should be quick to hear and slow to speak.
6. If we should suspect, I must suspect our motivations first. We must examine our hearts frequently. Let the Scripture speak of itself.
7. Calvinist should be careful to read the Scriptures through their theological lenses. They should be men and women who are committed to Scriptures as the ultimate authority.
8. We don't know it all. Therefore, we should be more patient, gentle and humble to others like our Savior Jesus Christ is to us.
"𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 “𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘮” 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 “𝘸𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘤𝘩” 𝘢𝘴 “𝘷𝘪𝘭𝘦” 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘶𝘨, 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦?" - Greg Dutcher
I would highly recommend this book!
June 10, 2020
Reformed theology is beautiful and humbling. But Ducher, a Calvinist pastor, is concerned about some of what he sees in today’s New Calvinism. This book is an excellent corrective for cage-stage Calvinists or anyone else who struggles with an over-zealous Reformed theology. Dutcher covers problems that occur when we love our theology more than God and thereby destroy the true theology of the Bible and what God is doing in our lives and in the church. We kill Calvinism,
By loving Calvinism as an end in itself
By becoming a theologian instead of a disciple
By loving God’s sovereignty more than God himself
By losing an urgency in evangelism
By learning only from other Calvinists
By tidying up the Bible’s “loose ends”
By being an arrogant know-it-all
By scoffing at the hang-ups others have with Calvinism
By loving Calvinism as an end in itself
By becoming a theologian instead of a disciple
By loving God’s sovereignty more than God himself
By losing an urgency in evangelism
By learning only from other Calvinists
By tidying up the Bible’s “loose ends”
By being an arrogant know-it-all
By scoffing at the hang-ups others have with Calvinism
April 9, 2013
This is a wonderful little book that I recommend to anyone who considers themselves a Calvinist or is interested in Calvinism. Calvinism is a wonderful theology when placed within the larger context of Scripture, however, those of us who consider ourselves Calvinists have a tendency of allowing it to play out in our lives in unappealing ways. Dutcher manages to expertly expose and examine the mistakes Calvinists often make.
Contemporary Calvinists would do well to read Dutcher's book and to avoid the pitfalls he has revealed. Killing Calvinism works well because Dutcher is speaking as a Calvinist to Calvinists. He is transparent enough to share his own theological journey in a way that shares with (rather than preaches to) his audience.
I highly recommend this book.
Contemporary Calvinists would do well to read Dutcher's book and to avoid the pitfalls he has revealed. Killing Calvinism works well because Dutcher is speaking as a Calvinist to Calvinists. He is transparent enough to share his own theological journey in a way that shares with (rather than preaches to) his audience.
I highly recommend this book.
August 15, 2017
This book is challenging and convicting. About half way through it I was a bit skeptical, as I thought, 'Surely the author is overgeneralizing Calvinists in some of his points he is trying to make. Not all Calvinists do or think like this.' But by the end of the book, I realized that this thinking actually proved his point. There are a few examples he gives that seem pretty extreme, but overall there is so much good stuff in here. This book is very humbling, and I highly recommend it. Actually, it would be wise to double-up with this book and The Practical Implications of Calvinism by Albert N. Martin.
January 27, 2013
This was a good, short, easy read. The author offers wonderful advice for those that have came to love the Doctrines of Grace. In the book Calvinism, Reformed Theology and TULIP are all used interchangeably. I would assert that this popular one-dimensional approach to the robust theology that is Reformed Theology is one of the most prevalent ways we are killing Calvinism today. In my humble opinion a better book on how to understand Calvinism and not kill it, would be Dr. Joel Beeke's book Living for God's Glory: An Introduction to Calvinism.
August 12, 2013
An absolute must read for those within and without the YR&R movement and those who study the subject of Calvinism.
June 14, 2014
A short book that should be read by anyone who loves the doctrines of grace, particularly any who have recently come to an appreciation of God's sovereignty over all things including salvation.
June 15, 2017
Basically a book on how a Calvinist can be a Calvinist without being a tool. Good value.
February 23, 2025
A one-star review of this book on Amazon was written by someone who was hoping to learn how to destroy Calvinism. To his disappointment, in "Killing Calvinism: How to Destroy a Perfectly Good Theology From the Inside" author Greg Dutcher writes as a Calvinist encouraging fellow Calvinists to avoid various pitfalls which would alienate others from Calvinism.
One doesn't need to spend much time on on-line theological discussions to see Calvinists come across as bullies. I've seen groups where unbelievers were not welcome - "unbelievers" meaning not only Arminians but those who believe Arminians are true Christians. 😱
Dutcher shares eight ways to destroy Calvinism... or to put it more accurately, things to avoid to keep from destroying Calvinism. These are:
1. By Loving Calvinism as an End in Itself
2. By Becoming a Theologian Instead of a Disciple
3. By Loving God's Sovereignty More Than God Himself
4. By Losing an Urgency in Evangelism
5. By Learning Only from Other Calvinists
6. By Tidying Up the Bible's "Loose Ends"
7. By Being an Arrogant Know-It-All
8. By Scoffing at the Hang-ups Others Have with Calvinism
As I mentioned, this book is written for Calvinists. Personally, in the Calvinism/Arminianism debate I consider myself a NOTA (None Of The Above). However, I've found this an encouraging book, helping me stay focused on being a disciple/evangelist and listening and respecting those who disagree. In fact, this book has made me lean a little more reformed than before.
I highly recommend this book.
One doesn't need to spend much time on on-line theological discussions to see Calvinists come across as bullies. I've seen groups where unbelievers were not welcome - "unbelievers" meaning not only Arminians but those who believe Arminians are true Christians. 😱
Dutcher shares eight ways to destroy Calvinism... or to put it more accurately, things to avoid to keep from destroying Calvinism. These are:
1. By Loving Calvinism as an End in Itself
2. By Becoming a Theologian Instead of a Disciple
3. By Loving God's Sovereignty More Than God Himself
4. By Losing an Urgency in Evangelism
5. By Learning Only from Other Calvinists
6. By Tidying Up the Bible's "Loose Ends"
7. By Being an Arrogant Know-It-All
8. By Scoffing at the Hang-ups Others Have with Calvinism
As I mentioned, this book is written for Calvinists. Personally, in the Calvinism/Arminianism debate I consider myself a NOTA (None Of The Above). However, I've found this an encouraging book, helping me stay focused on being a disciple/evangelist and listening and respecting those who disagree. In fact, this book has made me lean a little more reformed than before.
I highly recommend this book.
January 26, 2018
I think it would be the wisest course of action for every Calvinist to pick up this book before they make any mistakes this very book shows are natural for new Calvinist.
It would not surprise me if they did not, but this book is a gem. Dutcher shows his humility did not come out of a false piety, but out of multiple humbling experiences that made him rethink what he was doing with his theology.
Calvinism should be the "windshield by which we view the world," (as one of the early chapters mention) rather than the end of our conversations. As he says when stargazing with his family in their car, "not once did my family say 'What a beautifully clear windshield.'"
Simple steps and obvious truths that should be stated, mulled over, and applied quickly are scattered throughout the book. Pick it up, it's worth every cent.
It would not surprise me if they did not, but this book is a gem. Dutcher shows his humility did not come out of a false piety, but out of multiple humbling experiences that made him rethink what he was doing with his theology.
Calvinism should be the "windshield by which we view the world," (as one of the early chapters mention) rather than the end of our conversations. As he says when stargazing with his family in their car, "not once did my family say 'What a beautifully clear windshield.'"
Simple steps and obvious truths that should be stated, mulled over, and applied quickly are scattered throughout the book. Pick it up, it's worth every cent.
December 11, 2019
Says graciously and humbly what needs to be said.
I cannot say enough how important this book is right now in our current climate. Though it is written to speak to Calvinists, it gets at the spiritual pride that various camps in the church often hold to their detriment. We should be confident in our doctrine, but put Christ and His word first while considering how we come across to other brothers and sisters in the Lord who disagree with us. When we first come to Christ, we do not come with a label of Calvinist, Arminian, Pentecostal, etc. We should remember to appreciate God's providence in how often He uses all different believers in Jesus to encourage us in our lives! In our spiritual journey we should not forget this so that arrogance does not harm our witness of Christ.
I cannot say enough how important this book is right now in our current climate. Though it is written to speak to Calvinists, it gets at the spiritual pride that various camps in the church often hold to their detriment. We should be confident in our doctrine, but put Christ and His word first while considering how we come across to other brothers and sisters in the Lord who disagree with us. When we first come to Christ, we do not come with a label of Calvinist, Arminian, Pentecostal, etc. We should remember to appreciate God's providence in how often He uses all different believers in Jesus to encourage us in our lives! In our spiritual journey we should not forget this so that arrogance does not harm our witness of Christ.
November 22, 2025
This was a wonderful book on the realities of whether we Calvinists get too caught up in the minutiae of theology and become “Masters of Theology” and try to shove said theology to everyone without really being kind, which is actually the whole purpose of being a Christian. A complex theology and showing how smart you are to others isn’t gonna win them to Christ; being gentle, kind, and loving towards them, in other words, the Christlike qualities, (why we Calvinists emphasize grace), is much more important. The theology comes second.
July 6, 2020
Only 100 Pages but provides a great framework to examine your heart
1. By Loving Calvinism as an End in Itself
2. By Becoming a Theologian Instead of a Disciple
3. By Loving God’s Sovereignty More than God Himself
4. By Losing an Urgency For Evangelism
5. By Learning and Reading Only From Other Calvinists
6. By Tidying Up the Bible’s “Loose Ends”
7. By Being An Arrogant Know-It-All
8. By Scoffing at the Hang-Ups Others Have With Calvinism
1. By Loving Calvinism as an End in Itself
2. By Becoming a Theologian Instead of a Disciple
3. By Loving God’s Sovereignty More than God Himself
4. By Losing an Urgency For Evangelism
5. By Learning and Reading Only From Other Calvinists
6. By Tidying Up the Bible’s “Loose Ends”
7. By Being An Arrogant Know-It-All
8. By Scoffing at the Hang-Ups Others Have With Calvinism
May 8, 2023
Incredibly simple and concise book to help those who are new to Reformed theology and are stuck in the "cage-stage" after realizing they are hurt, angry, or otherwise upset by the current state of Christianity in our world. It truly helped me to learn to show others grace despite theological differences, not seeing the growth I think needs to be there, etc. It has certainly helped me to share the truths of the Reformed faith in love, rather than anger or pride.
June 16, 2023
I think Dutcher definitely has the right attitude when it comes to understanding the proper use of theology. I loved the analogies he used when comparing his system of theology and its place in his heart. (Theology is like a windshield you see through, not the picturesque scene you see through it.)
His admissions of guilt for treating badly those with whom he disagreed was pleasant to read and his condemnation of such behavior was warranted and I hope is well-received.
His admissions of guilt for treating badly those with whom he disagreed was pleasant to read and his condemnation of such behavior was warranted and I hope is well-received.
February 26, 2025
Oh me, and Amen. A to the point critique of the very real presence of pride and arrogance in the hearts of those who hold to the doctrines of grace (Calvinists). Brother Dutcher gives us a blow by blow account of the struggles he faced and faces in the "reformed" arena. I want to personally thank him for his willingness to call me out and point me to the grace I have known in my life and lack of my willingness to share it with others.
March 30, 2025
Excellent
If you can only read one book on Calvinism this month, I recommend this one. It's just the gospel, but so many times, we mess it up. I want to be known as someone who is faithful to the Bible, not to any external study of theology. I learned a lot from this book that I hope I will be able to internalize and let my light shine before others so that my Father in heaven may be glorified.
If you can only read one book on Calvinism this month, I recommend this one. It's just the gospel, but so many times, we mess it up. I want to be known as someone who is faithful to the Bible, not to any external study of theology. I learned a lot from this book that I hope I will be able to internalize and let my light shine before others so that my Father in heaven may be glorified.
June 13, 2022
Reasonable Read
Interesting light read. Thought provoking. Light review of Calvinism and thoughts about dealing with some of the standard challenges it faces. Does realize that considering other points of view and in a loving manner is the godly approach to brothers (and sisters😉) that may disagree.
Interesting light read. Thought provoking. Light review of Calvinism and thoughts about dealing with some of the standard challenges it faces. Does realize that considering other points of view and in a loving manner is the godly approach to brothers (and sisters😉) that may disagree.
July 28, 2024
I’m definitely guilty of some of the things he highlighted about Calvinists. A good and brief reminder to keep the main thing (the Gospel), the main thing, not the system of Calvinism. Calvinism is the lens through which we understand the Gospel, but we can teach and discuss the Word of God clearly and accurately without having to hammer the five points.
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