Tiptoeing Through TULIP: A Crash Course Comparison of Classical Arminianism and Calvinism

by Nicholas Campbell

In the complex world of theology, two doctrines continue to spark passionate Calvinism and Arminianism. Instead of choosing sides, this book aims to bring clarity to these complicated ideas, inviting readers to learn about the profound similarities and differences underpinning each doctrine. The battleground is formed around three key predestination, free will, and election. This book seeks to dismantle common misconceptions and straw man arguments through careful exploration, fostering a richer understanding of the two theologies, leading to better dialogue. The reader will find themselves journeying through theological history and navigating the maze of misinterpretations as well as deep-seated beliefs of both ideologies. This book aims to offer a panoramic view of these rich theological traditions, enabling readers to forge their own informed understanding of these monumental doctrines.

Genres: Theology

310 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 8, 2023

Reviews

[Marcie Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book everyone should read before having debates regarding Arminianism and Calvinism. It will help to prevent the creation of strawman arguments regarding each system. What I love most is that it highlights where both systems agree, which often gets overlooked in the polarizing discussions. Nick brings all the big words we have likely heard before in our theological studies: monergism and synergism, compatibalism and incompatibalism, pelagianism and semi-pelagianism, original sin and original guilt and many more, and he shows you how they relate to soteriology and how they affect both the Calvinistic system and the Arminian system. Nick provides extremely helpful appendices that include the Canons of Dort as well as a definition of what Reformed actually means (something many people who currently identify as reformed could use a refresher on). There is a wealth of verses for each of the five points and Nick presents how both theological systems interpret those verses. This is very helpful for those who have debates over this topic. This is a well organized and well articulated work!

[Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book to introduce both sides in a fair way. Definitely would have benefited from a publisher editing it though.

[Cinnamon Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been Calvinist curious for a while so I was looking for a relatively unbiased book to take me through what the two "camps" actually believe and why they believe it.

I've followed Nick on instagram for a while without really realizing this was an area he had expertise in. I've always appreciated his level headed and easy to understand answers to questions so when he came out with this book, it was a no brainer!

I really did appreciate his step by step approach to the differences between Arminianism and calvinism and even though I chewed on this book for almost a month and admittedly still didn't understand somethings (this book is really meant for academic study, not just a leisurely read) I did enjoy my time with it and feel better prepared to answer questions on this topic AND defend my beliefs as well.

Would highly recommend to anyone looking for deeper info on the differences between these two!!

[Nate Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for anyone who has begun to approach thus section if theology, which should be all at some point. Though the author is biased, it is well hidden to the point where an individual on either side od the aisle will see the staunch defense of their views and the foundation of the opposition. This subject has grown highly polemic over the years and has affected me personally, yet I now understand some misconceptions I held on the other's perspective. The simplicity of the writing, the layout, and the means of using numerous sources from each camp makes this a relatively unbiased view of the majority view of both camps.

[Daniël Linzel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for starting to explore the differences AND similarities between calvinism and Arminianism. It is fair, and well balanced despite the author being a Calvinist himself. It has been an elucidating, enlightening journey, and I greatly appreciate the book and its author.

My only points of critique are first, that it's a bit wordy. You really need to know theological terms well, it's not always an easy read. Second, but this will probably be resolved in later editions, the amount of typos and editing mistakes did disappoint me a bit.

If you're into theology and want to take a splash into the topic of Arminianism and Calvinism, then this book is for you!

[Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Campbell, even while admitting he is biased towards Calvinism, does a wonderful job at being fair and equal in giving the arguments for both sides.