Tulip: The Five Points of Calvinism in the Light of Scripture

by Duane Edward Spencer, Luder Whitlock (Foreword)

TULIP is a popular acronym for the five points of Calvinism--total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints. In this book, these five points are not only concisely explained in the light of the Bible but are also helpfully contrasted to the corresponding five points of Arminianism. The differences between Calvanistic and Arminian beliefs are also summarized at the end of the book for quick reference. Anyone looking for an accessible explanation of this somewhat difficult and controversial doctrine, or looking for help in explaining it to others, will find this an invaluable resource. TULIP has had steady sales since its original Baker publication in 1979, and there is now nearly 55,000 copies in print.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Nonfiction, Religion

100 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 1979

Reviews

[Andrei Rad · Rating 2 out of 5]

Carte primită cu dedicație de la un frate calvinist. La fel ca dăruitorul, autorul vrea să convingă nu doar cu privire la biblicitatea calvinismului, ci și cu privire la erezia și absurditatea teologică a tot ce nu acceptă calvinismul în 5 puncte formulat la Dort în 1618. În acest sens, apelează la tot felul de tertipuri (e.g. straw man, cherry picking, either-or fallacies). Aș putea cita nenumărate exemple. Sigur, există și argumente bune, în special considerând acele pasaje biblice care spun că din perspectiva lui Dumnezeu lucrurile sunt deja hotărâte.

Să faci distincții între calvinism și arminanism îți oferă claritate. Totuși, prăpastia care se postulează între ele este, de fapt, o pajiște mănoasă teologic care se revelează doar prin dialog și răbdare. Citind argumentarea autorului mi-am reamintit modul în care unii își argumentează TULIP-ul și punctele pe care le resping.

Neajunsul fundamental al calvinismului este că promite ce nu poate oferi. Chiar dacă sistemul ar fi valabil pentru Dumnezeu (care este atemporal), nu este folositor omului care trăiește în lumea fenomenelor: a lucrurilor așa cum i se arată în experiența lui temporală. Acesta trebuie să rămână mereu în dependență de Dumnezeu care cunoaște totul de la început până la final (fără ca el să împărtășească această cunoaștere). Însăși Calvin spunea că inima omului e fabrică de idoli, iar doctrinele când iau locul umblării reale cu Dumnezeu se potrivesc acestei categorii.

[Sharon Barrow Wilfong · Rating 3 out of 5]

I go to a church that follows Reformed Theology, but I have never been clear on what the five points of Calvinism were. This small book helped clarify the basic points. For those of you unfamiliar the points are:

T: Total depravity. Man is spiritually dead in his sin and incapable of choosing salvation. God must first resurrect him to spiritual life.

U: Unconditional Election. Man does absolutely nothing to merit being chosen by God for salvation. It is entirely God's perfect and Holy will. Consequently:

L: Limited atonement. Jesus did not die for every single human being. Only the elect who were chosen according to God's perfect and Holy will.

I: Irresistible Grace. Salvation is based on the free will of God and, since God is omnipotent, His grace cannot be resisted.

Perseverance: Saints, otherwise known as the "elect", can never be lost since their salvation is by the will of the unchanging, omnipotent God. Since no condition in man determines his being chosen, because Scripture teaches unconditional election, it stands to reason that there is nothing he can do to get himself 'unsaved" once he has been saved by God's grace. If it is the Will of God that I am saved, and since He "changes not" then I begin my salvation, continue my salvation, and enter heaven a saved person because He has willed it so! "Of His own Will He conceived us with the Word of Truth." James 1:18

Every chapter compares and contrasts these points with the Armenian viewpoint, which believes that someone can lose their salvation, by walking away and rejecting the faith they originally professed. The Armenian also believes that man chooses Christ after Christ offers salvation to him.

I found this book enlightening, although I must say that I struggle with some of the points. I don't understand why God, if He knows man in his spiritually dead state, and is incapable of choosing Christ, would not enable every single man to come to salvation.

The argument is that those that are not chosen are not being treated unfairly, because they are receiving the justice they deserve. In other words, most of the world is fallen and at the end of time will receive justice. In God's Perfect omniscience, omnipotence, and Holy will, He chooses a portion of the fallen to extend mercy and salvation in order to Glorify Himself.

I am not saying this is not so. I do not know enough. I will only say that I do not see that in Scripture. It seems that God is not being just to judge people who are born spiritually dead and incapable of any good work. Isn't that like condemning a person born without legs because they can't walk?

The argument I've heard from my Calvinist friends is that man is free...to sin. But if you can only sin, how is that freedom of the will?

I'll be honest, when I read Scripture, I see Jesus Christ offering Himself to each person on earth, and enabling them to receive salvation or reject it, BUT I do believe the majority of the world has and will reject Him because the Bible clearly teaches that only a remnant will respond to His call.
"Many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:14.

Receiving a salvation that is offered to you, does not make you worthy of it, so I do believe in unmerited favor. The Bible clearly teaches that "all our righteousness is as filthy rags"Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:10, so there is absolutely nothing humans can do to deserve or merit God's grace. Good works do not produce salvation. Salvation produces good works, but that's another topic.

Also, I don't believe you can lose your salvation because Christ has promised that "He who has started a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ." Philippians 1:6

23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. 1 Thessalonians 5

The issue is whether choosing Christ is a good work or not. Calvinists saying choosing God is an impossibility for the unsaved man. But again, I don't see that accepting the life buoy thrown out to you means you deserved the life buoy.

However, there are some who call themselves believers that want to propagate the lie that once you are saved you can act like an unbeliever and still be saved. The Bible clearly teaches the attributes of a saved person, and also the attributes of an unsaved person. This is not brain surgery. People want to abuse God's gift of grace by acting as if salvation was some sort of "get out of hell free" card. But the Bible clearly teaches
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?" Romans 6:1,2

There is a church here where I live and an arrogant young man who preaches this heresy. They have to ignore 90% of the New Testament. Bizarre. This fellow insists that you can "be a believer in Christ, but not a disciple." The day of judgement is coming for the likes of him. "Many will say, Lord, Lord" and Jesus will say, "I never knew you."

So in conclusion. I think I am a two-point Calvinist. I believe in God's unmerited mercy and salvation. And I believe in the perseverance of the saints. True believers (true, not false teachers who think they're saved when they are still strangers to God) cannot lose their salvation.

The rest I struggle with. Thank God having perfect understanding on theology is not pre-requisite for salvation.

[Jack · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm an open-minded non-denominational Christian, but if I had to ascribe a label to myself, I'd classify myself as an Arminian. Some of my best friends in this world are Calvinists, and we've gone back and forth on the biblical and ethical legitimacy of both schools of thought. I decided to read Tulip: The Five Points of Calvinism in the Light of Scripture to educate myself on Calvinism, and to appreciate some Christian nonfiction. Having finished it, it's hard for me to review this booklet objectively, since it's kind of a mixed bag for an Arminian.

As a Calvinist manifesto, it excels, and it comes to Calvinists with my highest recommendation. It's well-written, and very succinct, and it clearly presents its points. I noted what seemed like a lot of contempt for Arminians and their views, and constant lines describing the Arminians as rationalizing with their emotions and humans minds rather than being rooted in Scripture, which is really unfair. That said, there's a great closing paragraph where the author seems to dispel any notions that he's being divisive by coming out and saying that, while this text is a knock at Arminian beliefs to an extent, it's more aimed to make clear the biblical legitimacy of Calvinism, and he seems to genuinely push for spiritual unity. I appreciate that.

CRITICISMS:

I respect Calvinism because I agree with them that God is sovereign, and Christians should develop love, respect, and healthy fear of Him. Where I disagree is that I've always been taught that God is love, and he sent Jesus to die on the cross to save everyone. Calvinists would tell you that he died for the elect only. This book follows Calvinist logic as closely as possible, but chooses to ignore lots of verses that would refute its claims, and it also makes some logical fallacies.

This book ignores 1 Peter 3:18, 1 John 2:2, Hebrews 2:9, Hebrews 9:12, Hebrews 9:26-28, Hebrews 10:12, John 1:29, 2 Peter 3:9, 2 Corinthians 5:15, and many more verses that point to Christ having died for the sins of everyone in the world, and not just the elect. Romans 1:20 states that God's majesty and gift has been made clear to everyone, even those who haven't heard it. This general revelation logically means everyone has been offered the gift and has the ability to choose it, and this refutes predestination, but this book ignores that. If God is love, as stated in 1 John 4:8, then how can he willingly condemn his own creations to Hell, which we're taught is the ultimate evil and punishment? All men are created equal, so this seems wrong, and it doesn't seem to be more rooted in scripture than Arminianism. This book says that if God died for all, and man chooses God, then man is saved by his own works, and not God's grace. No! God died for all and gave all the gift of grace, and man choosing to accept doesn't mean man saved himself, it means he submitted to God's gift of life.

Calvinists also say that if someone walks away from the faith, they were never saved to begin with. The Bible clearly states in 1 Timothy 4:1-5, 2 Peter 2:20-22, and Hebrews 6:4-6 that some can and will turn away from God and faith. Calvinists would argue that this is impossible, since that would mean man's will can obstruct God's, which is blasphemous since God is sovereign. But God gave man free will, as is clear with Adam and Eve. Is it not possible that God, in wanting man to have free will, chose to give them it in his sovereignty instead of picking and choosing people before birth? Joshua 24:15, Revelation 3:20, and Matthew 11:28 speak to man having free will. If man does not have free will, and Adam and Eve's actions were predestined by God, the logical conclusion is that God created sin, which is blasphemous to consider. I can't even fathom getting behind the idea that God would knowingly create sin, the one thing that opposes Him and his will, and hurts humans constantly.

The author deals with John 3:16 by asserting his own interpretation of the word "world," which is "select people from many tribes and nations." He never proves this definition as being biblically rooted, and yet he claims Arminians are the ones who operate out of their own reasoning and emotions. He also cites verses where the Bible says that God shepherds his sheep and his flock as proof that God died for his elect. All these verses attest to is that God watches over His people. These verses in no way communicate that God died for a limited number people.

It seems that every Calvinist who talks about "the elect" automatically assumes that they themselves are one of the elect. How can they know this? Every man has a capacity for sin and the ability to turn from God, to get up in the morning and choose sin. What assurance do Calvinists have that they're predestined for eternity with God? No one has assurance of faith if Calvinism is to be believed.

All in all, Tulip is great reading for Calvinists or Christians looking to broaden their horizons, but there are some very problematic concepts in this booklet that are too glaring to ignore. Take it with a grain of salt, and make up your mind. Use your own judgement, and go with whichever doctrine seems to align with scripture the most.

[Douglas Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay. Also read in July of 1988.

[Denis Antonio · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dear irritated author, to critique something, you must know it first.

[Rebekah]

A basic overview of the differences between Calvinism and Arminianism.

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short book may be small but very succinctly sums up some very large differences between Calvinism and Arminian beliefs, based off of the Synod of Dordt's summary of Calvin's views on free will and man's depravity. I liked the scriptural backing of each point in T.U.L.I.P. (also known as Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints). Overall a great little book to have on your shelf and I would say it's a very accessible read for youth as well.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book to better understand Calvinism. So far it seems to be a very clear explanation of the 5 points.

[Ruth Donigian]

This verbose book seems to present two options.
A 50/50 shot so to speak.
You are either Calvinist
Or you are Arminian.
There is no other option. No in between and no different way to read the scriptures.
As a nondenominational Christian who disagrees with both I can testify that it’s not a 50/50 matter.
The problem with so many theology books is that they lock themselves into one way of think and present an either-or fallacy. This is the fault with this book and the fault with many others of its kind. Plus the logical fallacies and out-of-context biblical references made this a slightly frustrating book to get through. I will say that the author references Luke 4:14-30 (when the people of Nazareth unsuccessfully attempt to throw Jesus off the cliff) . He claimed that they did this because Jesus supported Calvinism. Read the passage. They tried to kill him because he claimed to be the messiah. Also he called Satan the god of death…Satan is a fallen Angel as written in scripture, not a god.
All in all a rather illogical, overly verbal book that presents a 50/50 shot on two untruths. I’ll try other Calvinist books and Arminian books but this one just didn’t do it.

[Daniel Frederickson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well-written and concise argument for the Biblical foundations for the five points of Calvinism in direct contrast to the five points of Arminianism.
Total Depravity --Free Will
Unconditional Election -- Conditional Election
Limited Atonement -- Universal Atonement
Irresistible Grace -- Obstructable Grace
Perseverance of the Saints -- Falling From Grace

Writing primarily to those who have little to no knowledge of the subject, Spencer keeps his arguments brief and concise. Others have spent whole volumes on even one of these points, so he makes his case and allows the reader to search the Scriptures for themselves with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Because it is brief, it has its drawbacks. He sometimes overstates his case when referring to past accusations of heresy. His weakest chapter, in my opinion, is on Limited Atonement. Not because his Scripture references are lacking, but because he opens himself up to a typical attack on Calvinism; namely, that Calvinists are so taken up by the limited nature of Christ's atonement that they diminish God's infinite patience and compassion.

Overall, I give this a 3.5/5

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I was probably Arminian as a kid, but I’m a five-point Calvinist now. I remember the first time I learned about Calvinism, I believed it was just logical because there was evidence in the Bible, and God always precedes man. Anyways, I wanted to read this book because even though I’ve held to Calvinism, I’m not that well-versed with the teachings and only just recently remembered what TULIP stands for. I think this book helped solidify my stances, and Spencer is clear and concise, with lots of Scripture. He does a good job in defining both views and the errors in Arminianism. Also, it was interesting to read in the conclusion on how he used to be Arminian and stepped down from being a Methodist minister.

[✧*̥˚ Jordyn *˚✧ · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰. ┈ ⋞ 〈 Tulip 〉 ⋟ ┈ ★★★★☆

╰┈➤ Okay this book is like the perfect breakdown of a small taste of the views of both Calvinism and Arminianism. If you’re looking for a side by side comparison with easy access to the scripture for both sides, well guess what there’s one conveniently in the back!

Overall, anyone’s view of this book is going to be biased because it’s literally two slightly controversial doctrines but of all the books I’ve read on these topics this one is hands down my favorite. It has a chapter for each point of tulip, and the countering side of Arminianism which I really enjoy for practical debating.

Probably could’ve been a five star, but I deducted a star because I felt like there could’ve been better and greater quantities of verses throughout 🙃

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've actually read this book more times than I can count. What I love about it is how it points out that most denominations don't realize they actually believe the same things outlined here. So often, people hear "Calvinism" and think of a cult, rather than seeing it as a theology developed and expressed by John Calvin. Calvin was a brilliant theologian, just like Martin Luther. Without them both, we wouldn't have the Protestant Reformation in the 1500 and 1600s, or the 95 Theses. This book does a great job of connecting those teachings to our religious history and breaking down the 5 key points that came out of the Reformation in a way that's really easy to understand. This book barely takes a day to finish. Maybe 3 if you decided to take notes.

* I never posted my review when I first read the books, here it is.

[Brandon Vaughan · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is a lot of good information in this short book. I feel like it presents a fair representation of Arminianism. However, many of the positions presented as Calvinism are actually Hyper-Calvinism. The author clearly believes in equal-ultimacy, double predestination and the strictest view of Limited Atonement (Lack of Sufficiency). For these reasons I give it three stars.

[Emily Herron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is awesome! It is very succinct but a very good resource for someone who is looking for some clarification on the difference between Arminianism and Calvinism. Would totally recommend and a very quick read!

[Josiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great short intro to Calvinism vs Arminianism. Spencer does a good job at providing scripture to prove his arguing for Tulip. This book is written in a way many will find readable and likeable. Highly recommend.

[Donald Owens II · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fine, but mundane. Very basic.

[John Hockey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well developed argument contrasting Arminian theology prevalent in the evangelic Church today and Calvinism.

[Mike Fendrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice little primer of the five points. Packed with Scriptural reference and other source material.

[Peter Kiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great crashcourse into the history of the five points and giving a good grounding for them in Scripture. Just enough to get someone into the conversation :)

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great description of the basic of reformed faith. I appreciate the juxtaposition of the Arminian faith as a learning tool.

[Jason Snelgrove · Rating 5 out of 5]

TULIP: The Five Points of Calvinism" is an in-depth exploration of the key theological principles associated with Calvinism, presenting a robust defense and explanation of these doctrines. I appreciate the author's dedication to biblical study and his ability to articulate complex theological concepts with clarity and depth.

Spencer's work provides a comprehensive examination of the TULIP acronym, which represents the five core tenets of Calvinism: Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints. Throughout the book, the author carefully unpacks each point, drawing from scriptural references and historical context to support his arguments.

One of the notable strengths of "TULIP: The Five Points of Calvinism" is the author's commitment to biblical authority and sound exegesis. Spencer consistently grounds his discussions in the Scriptures, presenting a strong biblical foundation for each point of Calvinism. This scriptural emphasis adds depth and credibility to his arguments, appealing to readers who seek a solid theological framework.

The book's organization is logical and accessible, with each chapter dedicated to a specific point of Calvinism. Spencer breaks down complex theological ideas into digestible portions, providing clear explanations and offering thoughtful insights along the way. His approach strikes a balance between depth and readability, allowing readers to engage with the material regardless of their prior theological knowledge.

Moreover, the author acknowledges potential objections and counterarguments, addressing them with respect and clarity. He presents a fair representation of alternative viewpoints, fostering a sense of intellectual honesty and encouraging readers to engage in critical thinking and further study.

However, it is important to note that "TULIP: The Five Points of Calvinism" presents a particular theological perspective and may not fully explore contrasting interpretations or theological frameworks. While the book effectively articulates the core tenets of Calvinism, readers should approach the material with discernment, considering alternative viewpoints and engaging in comprehensive study to gain a broader understanding of the theological spectrum.

In conclusion, "TULIP: The Five Points of Calvinism" by Spencer provides a comprehensive and well-reasoned exploration of the core doctrines of Calvinism. The author's commitment to biblical authority, clear exposition, and thoughtful engagement with objections make this book a valuable resource for those seeking to understand and evaluate the theological framework of Calvinism. While readers should exercise discernment and engage with alternative perspectives, this book serves as an insightful guide to the complexities of God's sovereignty and the nature of salvation.

[Jonathan Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great, comprehensive yet concise work on the controversial, yet Biblical, five points of Calvinism, commonly referred to as TULIP. This would be a great read for anyone wanting to explore the contrast between Calvinism and Arminianism, as that is it's primary goal, however written with the obvious bias towards Calvinism.

Great Read!

[Devin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good, short read on Calvinism, less than 100 pages. Though this book is thorough and clearly outlines Calvinism's five points, I fear that people will leave their reading feeling that Spencer is just another cold-hearted theologian as they likely perceive many other Calvinists. To break this stereotype, that those who are in the tradition of the Reformed part of the faith are lifeless and hard-hearted, I recommend Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist , a book by a Calvinist all about experiencing joy and love in God.

[Jonathan Wylie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short little book was posted in the group reformed readers. If you are unfamiliar with TULIP this book is a good read. It has scripture references and even explains the Arminian view well with scripture references. The book is written by a person who was Arminian in thought for a while and then through the study of Scripture realized that what he was teaching as a pastor did not line up with the word and so he set out to write this look book. If you buy the kindle version it is a little pricey but worth it if you are not familiar with the topic.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear, concise and informative. Clear because the author presents relevant verses for each viewpoint and clearly contrast Arminianism and Calvinism.

TULIP is a acronym for the five points of Calvinism:

total depravity
unconditional election
limited atonement
irresistible grace
perserverance

[Brian Bojo]

A concise refresher on the doctrines of grace written by a former Methodist minister, now a Presbyterian minister, who at one time taught from an Arminian perspective and became persuaded by scripture that this teaching is unbiblical. Contains a handy comparative chart at the end that discusses the five points of Arminianism & Calvinism, with proof texts for all.

[Robbie Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot was achieved in not many pages. Particularly liked the personal description of his reasons for being a Calvinist.

“These five points are not barbed shafts to be shot through the ribs of our fellow Christian brothers and sisters; we instead look upon them as great lamps that irradiate the cross.”

Spurgeon

[Caleb Ripple · Rating 4 out of 5]

The very first book I read on Calvinism. What a journey it has been! For me at the time, although it wasn't extensive, it was extremely pivotal in connecting the dots and answering some of my questions regarding the scriptures and Christian doctrine. A good introduction to the doctrines of grace.

[Jerrill Wyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short synopsis of the five points and there opposing views. He backs all points with Scripture very well. At the end the summary provides specific passages for each point and even sub divided into further categories.