Chosen in Christ: Revisiting the Contours of Predestination

by Cornelis P. Venema

Cornel Venema revisits the important doctrine of predestination to re–familiarize the church with truths about God’s sovereignty in salvation. But he does not merely re–visit old ground but also engages a host of historic and contemporary challenges to the doctrine. He addresses the subject from exegetical, historical, contemporary, and pastoral vantage points.

487 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2019

About the author

Venema is Dean of the Faculty and Professor of Doctrinal Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, Dyer, Indiana. He gained his doctorate from Princeton Theological Seminary for work on the theology of John Calvin and has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church in Ontario, California, and South Holland, Illinois.

Reviews

[Andrew Krom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear and helpful presentation of the reformed (biblical) doctrine of Election. In the final chapter, chapter 9, the author answers many common questions that are often brought against the doctrine of Election. This chapter and the opening 3 chapters, which offer a biblical survey of election, are worth getting the book.

[Alexandru Croitor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read (introductory, but not only) on the topic of election - biblical, theological, historical and also pastoral. The language is accessible and the content is quite solid. The first 3 chapters deal with the scriptural evidences of 'election' (in Old Testament, New Testament and Pauline Epistles). The next 5 chapters are more historical in nature: he presents the doctrine of election as it was formulated by Augustine (and, of course, the pelagian controversy); then he deals with the formulation of the reformers. From now on, it is what he (rightly, I think) called "the series of footnotes to the Augustinian/Calvinist vs Arminian debate". He deals with the classical Arminian stance on the issue (Dort, Remonstrants, ...) and also with revisionists - Barth and Open Theists.
The chapter on Barth I enjoyed the most. While he is not that sympathetic to Barth, I think he managed to do a good job in trying to present (his otherwise difficult to understand and "contradictory" reiteration of) the doctrine of election; he follows through on some of the debates among his interpreters and draws some pretty substantial conclusions that, in the end, help his case for the 'traditional' view of predestination. Not being so acquainted with Barth, this chapter came in handy.

Weirdly, there isn't much discussion on the ordo salutis 'infra-' vs 'supra-' debate. While he is an advocate of the 'infralapsarian' view, he just briefly presents the two and subtly points out that the Bible's testimony contemplates "fallen human beings" (thus, infra?).

However, this book is great not only as an introduction, but also at an intermediate level. The exegesis of some of the important passages really brings to light the focus and how it isn't so easy to avoid such an important theme of the story of redemption. Also, the bibliographical material is rich, vast and solid - provides a good framework for navigating the topic.

[NG · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Venema is a scholar. As such, he careful represents the positions of others and provides an informed exposition of Scripture, an historical overview, and a dissection of the theological positions that have come to dominate in the modern period. He takes issues which can be quite complex and patiently walks the reader through these. Some chapters will be easier than others (the chapter on Barth may be especially hard for those who have never been exposed to his theology). Although, even in these, Venema provides a wonderful explanation.

[Ronnie Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

The doctrine of election is a dirty word in many evangelical circles. However, it is a foundational reality in the hope and assurance of the believer. This book provide a wonderful study of the biblical reality of being in Christ. Biblical exposition, historical teaching of the church, and honest and fair polemics of contrary views make this a very accessible and educational read. Highly recommend!

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent resource on the biblical fact of election

This book takes the doctrine of election and traces it through history and the Bible. The explains are complete and understandable. Every Christian should read this

[Clayton]

If I wanted to read a textbook I would go to seminary