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Welcome to a Reformed Church
”Who are these guys?” That was the question the teenage Daniel R. Hyde posed to his father when he first encountered “Reformed” believers. With their unique beliefs and practices, these Christians didn’t fit any of the categories in his mind. Not so many years later, Hyde is now Rev. Daniel R. Hyde, a pastor of a Reformed church. Recognizing that many are on the outside looking in, just as he once was, he wrote Welcome to a Reformed A Guide for Pilgrims to explain what Reformed churches believe and why they structure their life and worship as they do. In layman’s terms, Rev. Hyde sketches the historical roots of the Reformed churches, their scriptural and confessional basis, their key beliefs, and the ways in which those beliefs are put into practice. The result is a roadmap for those encountering the Reformed world for the first time and a primer for those who want to know more about their Reformed heritage.
178 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2010
94 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
Daniel R. Hyde
39 books30 followersDaniel R. Hyde (ThM, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary) is the Pastor of the Oceanside United Reformed Church in Oceanside, California. He is the author of over ten books, including Welcome to a Reformed Church, Why Believe in God?, and God in Our Midst.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 18, 2021
This book is something of a misnomer, as it describes the Reformed outlook on life rather than what you would see upon visiting a Reformed church. Moreover, it appears at first to be another primer on Calvinism, which we certainly do not need. However, and most fortunately, it is not. Unlike other manuals for Calvinism, this is grounded in the Reformed Confessions, which allows Hyde to explore the covenants and the sacraments.
The Q&A is quite funny.
The Q&A is quite funny.
July 16, 2012
Discovering our place within the history of our church and rooting our theology to our spiritual forefathers answers many of the problems we face today. The novelties are rarely novel. They are the dried regurgitation on the bib of the early church. That’s what makes a book like Welcome to a Reformed Church valuable--it seeks to do two things: first, explains a misinterpreted term (reformed) and roots that term in its historical context.
As much as a I advocate for a broad understanding of the term reformed today so that it can rightly include our Baptist brothers and those who consider themselves reformed who are loosely Calvinistic, you can’t provide the leeway without first tethering the rope to the tree.
And lest you think reformed folks value being reformed over being a Christian, Guy Prentiss Waters says in the foreword,
We say, with the nineteenth-century Scottish Presbyterian theologian John “Rabbi” Duncan (1796-1870), ‘I’m first a Christian, next a Catholic, then a Calvinist, fourth a Paedobaptist and finally a Presbyterian. I cannot reverse the order’” (xv).
And later Hyde echoes this, “This term, Reformed, was a shorthand way of saying, ‘Churches that are reformed according to the Word of God’” (12). Everything commended from the confessions on is tethered to Scripture.
Hyde develops his definition around core distinctives of reformed theology: history, confessions, Scripture, Covenant as God’s Story, Justification, Sanctification, the Church’s Distinguishing Marks, Worship, & Preaching and the Sacraments.
As a guide, I found it helpful. My only concern is that those who are not familiar with reformed thought especially found in the confessions and creeds may be overwhelmed by larger quotations from these documents. In some of these instances, a glass of water might have served the weary pilgrim better than the garden hose.
The emphases on a living faith was refreshing. The Reformed are accused of being all head and no heart but Hyde points out that the Heidelberg Catechism and the Westminster Catechism gives nearly 40% of their emphases to “holy living” or “sanctification” (88; see an helpful illustration about good works and justification on page 92). Passionate Christian living is a core tenant of reformed theology.
Welcome to a Reformed Church ends with an helpful question and answer section and a bibliography to help those who are interested in learning more. I would recommend keeping a few copies of this book on hand for those who have serious questions or interest in the reformed church. Especially in a church context, it could be used with great benefit for those searching.
A free copy of this book was provided by Reformation Trust.
As much as a I advocate for a broad understanding of the term reformed today so that it can rightly include our Baptist brothers and those who consider themselves reformed who are loosely Calvinistic, you can’t provide the leeway without first tethering the rope to the tree.
And lest you think reformed folks value being reformed over being a Christian, Guy Prentiss Waters says in the foreword,
We say, with the nineteenth-century Scottish Presbyterian theologian John “Rabbi” Duncan (1796-1870), ‘I’m first a Christian, next a Catholic, then a Calvinist, fourth a Paedobaptist and finally a Presbyterian. I cannot reverse the order’” (xv).
And later Hyde echoes this, “This term, Reformed, was a shorthand way of saying, ‘Churches that are reformed according to the Word of God’” (12). Everything commended from the confessions on is tethered to Scripture.
Hyde develops his definition around core distinctives of reformed theology: history, confessions, Scripture, Covenant as God’s Story, Justification, Sanctification, the Church’s Distinguishing Marks, Worship, & Preaching and the Sacraments.
As a guide, I found it helpful. My only concern is that those who are not familiar with reformed thought especially found in the confessions and creeds may be overwhelmed by larger quotations from these documents. In some of these instances, a glass of water might have served the weary pilgrim better than the garden hose.
The emphases on a living faith was refreshing. The Reformed are accused of being all head and no heart but Hyde points out that the Heidelberg Catechism and the Westminster Catechism gives nearly 40% of their emphases to “holy living” or “sanctification” (88; see an helpful illustration about good works and justification on page 92). Passionate Christian living is a core tenant of reformed theology.
Welcome to a Reformed Church ends with an helpful question and answer section and a bibliography to help those who are interested in learning more. I would recommend keeping a few copies of this book on hand for those who have serious questions or interest in the reformed church. Especially in a church context, it could be used with great benefit for those searching.
A free copy of this book was provided by Reformation Trust.
July 9, 2016
A great introductory read for the layman who might be new to the Reformed Faith or the seasoned believer who is seeking a refresher on the basics of the Reformed Faith. Highly recommended!
July 8, 2022
Great introduction to the main thoughts of what it means to be Reformed and Protestant. Definitely recommend it in that regard. 5/5 stars there.
Unfortunately, it doesn't go a whole lot into distinctly Reformed worship and way of life. It would have been good to see sections Ecclesiology and Liturgy. He does touch on how the Regulative Principle dictates our worship but an inclusion of how that's played out in weekly worship would elevate the book. The lack of these two areas drops it down to 3/5 stars.
Unfortunately, it doesn't go a whole lot into distinctly Reformed worship and way of life. It would have been good to see sections Ecclesiology and Liturgy. He does touch on how the Regulative Principle dictates our worship but an inclusion of how that's played out in weekly worship would elevate the book. The lack of these two areas drops it down to 3/5 stars.
January 9, 2016
Welcome to a Reformed Church fulfills its title well. The Evangelical community should consider the topics and concepts discussed in this book it does church. The language is plain and well-organized, making it an easy read. The Reformed church (though technically Evangelical, as well) is too often ignored by the broader Christian community to its loss. While I would not personally advocate some of the key theological points in the Reformed church (Covenant Theology, for instance), I find our own church practices enriched by the many biblical convictions of our Reformed brethren. I recommend this book as an introductory read for all considering the ecclesiology of the church.
October 16, 2015
A decent introduction to the Reformed faith. 3.5 is about what I would give it. It covers the major issues. I did not agree with it all.Some areas were weak. It is not a book you give to a new convert or someone who just joined the church unless you are willing to walk through the book with them. Most people I know would be overwhelmed trying to go through this on their own. A new members class would be the best setting to use this book where the teacher can walk people through the content and explain the reformed jargon as they move along.
January 20, 2016
There is nothing "wrong" with this book, per se. It is informative, lucid, and, for its size, comprehensive. I just found it, well, a bit boring. If I was seeking to introduce someone to the basics of the Reformed tradition, I'd probably begin with "Letters to a Young Calvinist" by James Smith instead.
March 21, 2013
an okay introduction; a good skim and entry point for people unfamiliar with Reformed Christianity.
August 27, 2016
This book makes me wish there was a Reformed church near my home.
August 14, 2018
A fantastic primer on confessional Reformed theology. I would definitely chose this as a recommendation to unreformed family members or friends.
June 4, 2019
While there are hundreds of Christian denominations or churches, what is unique about the Reformed church? What do they believe? How are their practices different? An ex Roman Catholic, Daniel Hyde gives a wonderful answer to all these questions through this book in an elaborate manner. He touches right from the historical roots, confessional nature, liturgical worship and everything that you need to know about the Reformed church. Especially helpful if you're new to the reformed faith or are contemplating on joining a reformed church. If that's the case with you, then I would strongly recommend this book.
June 4, 2019
Great little introduction to the Reformed Church. Daniel Hyde sets out to show that the Reformed Church and her confessions are rooted and grounded in the scriptures, commanded by God, unto His glory, and Hyde does just that.
I bumped the book down one star for a few things that I would consider theological errors. For example, the church determining what day public worship would take place rather than the church receiving the Lord's Day from God as His established day of worship in the New Covenant. There was one or two other comments that I raised an eyebrow from, but over all its a great book and would recommend it.
I bumped the book down one star for a few things that I would consider theological errors. For example, the church determining what day public worship would take place rather than the church receiving the Lord's Day from God as His established day of worship in the New Covenant. There was one or two other comments that I raised an eyebrow from, but over all its a great book and would recommend it.
December 2, 2025
Good general descriptions of Reformed concepts. Presents himself as impartial and educated but when critiquing others dips his pen into the ink of broadbrush, strawman, and false dichotomy. Leans toward being unsympathetic and, well, rude. This book is definitely NOT suited for those who are curious and "on the fence".
November 20, 2019
An accessible introduction to the marks of a church that is shaped by the gospel and informed by Scripture!
March 14, 2020
I read the first 1/4 then skimmed the rest. Great introduction of reformed theology!
September 6, 2014
I would actually rate this book 3.5 stars if that were possible. This is a good overview and explanation of classical reform theology. It's thorough in the sense that it touches on all the major points; it's simple in the sense that it is a short book and doesn't go into depth on any one topic. Frankly, I found it a rather dull read and was glad to be finished with it. On the other hand, I was glad to get a relatively short explanation of reformed theology. I think part of the dullness was the extensive use of quotations from three primary confessions of faith that were written in "old English" and, therefore, don't flow well in the 21st century. As another reviewer wrote, had he summarized the confessions and/or interpreted them in current English (referencing the original quotes or even including the full text of the confessions in the book), the book would have been much more readable.
I came away from this book further convinced that I'm not a calvinist (I'm not arminian, either — somewhere in between). There were definitely significant points of theology in this book where I hold to the same (or very close to the same) interpretation as a calvinist: the authority of the Bible as the trustworthy record of God's revelation of Himself; God's sovereignty over creation (though we would differ on how God exercises that sovereignty); salvation by grace through faith as opposed to salvation by reason of being good enough (though we would differ in that I believe the image of God is not completely corrupted); and we hold seemingly opposite truths, God's sovereignty and man's responsibility, in tension (though we would differ over how those come into play).
There are some anamolies in the book (and, maybe in reformed theology) that seem oddly extra-biblical. For example, at least in Hyde's case: an acceptance of infant baptism (pre-conversion); he says there are only 2 sacraments yet he discusses preaching in the same terms that he discusses baptism and the Lord's Supper; he has no compunction about varying modes of baptism, yet he insists that there is a biblical, normative form of worship.
If you want a brief, intellectual explanation of the basic tenets of classical reformed theology, this is not a bad place to start. If you want something that's easy to read, then this is not the book. If you want an in-depth, complete reformed theology, you probably should look to Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion" (I haven't tackled that beast, yet).
I came away from this book further convinced that I'm not a calvinist (I'm not arminian, either — somewhere in between). There were definitely significant points of theology in this book where I hold to the same (or very close to the same) interpretation as a calvinist: the authority of the Bible as the trustworthy record of God's revelation of Himself; God's sovereignty over creation (though we would differ on how God exercises that sovereignty); salvation by grace through faith as opposed to salvation by reason of being good enough (though we would differ in that I believe the image of God is not completely corrupted); and we hold seemingly opposite truths, God's sovereignty and man's responsibility, in tension (though we would differ over how those come into play).
There are some anamolies in the book (and, maybe in reformed theology) that seem oddly extra-biblical. For example, at least in Hyde's case: an acceptance of infant baptism (pre-conversion); he says there are only 2 sacraments yet he discusses preaching in the same terms that he discusses baptism and the Lord's Supper; he has no compunction about varying modes of baptism, yet he insists that there is a biblical, normative form of worship.
If you want a brief, intellectual explanation of the basic tenets of classical reformed theology, this is not a bad place to start. If you want something that's easy to read, then this is not the book. If you want an in-depth, complete reformed theology, you probably should look to Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion" (I haven't tackled that beast, yet).
February 21, 2018
Very basic, but good.
April 24, 2014
In his introduction, Daniel Hyde recollects one of his first thoughts upon stumbling unto the Reformed church as a teenager: "Who are these guys?" I laughed, because I thought something very similar to that myself three years ago, when I was first introduced to Reformed Theology and the Reformed Church. While I didn't feel that this book taught me anything particularly new or earth-shattering, it was very helpful in explaining terms and beliefs that are often difficult to define.
Hyde admirably gleans the theological need-to-knows of the Reformed Church and explains what they believe and why. He covers the historical background of the Reformation, the creeds and confessions of the church, the authority of the Scripture, the definition of justification and sanctification, and worship within the church. This is particularly admirable, as he manages to thoroughly cover all these topics in less than 150 pages. It is well-written and well-researched.
I will say this--this book is not for everyone. I am the appropriate audience for this book--a Bible-believing Christian who was raised in a different church tradition and now wants to know what this "Reformed" fuss is all about. However, those new to the faith would be utterly lost here, as Hyde's writing assumes general scriptural knowledge. Additionally, while I felt that the writing was accessible, Hyde would occasionally lapse into some dry writing tendencies. The introductory paragraphs were often light and charming--occasionally the middle of chapters dragged along.
However, I found that this was a great introduction to the Reformed Church and can say with confidence that I know what these "guys" are all about, now!
Hyde admirably gleans the theological need-to-knows of the Reformed Church and explains what they believe and why. He covers the historical background of the Reformation, the creeds and confessions of the church, the authority of the Scripture, the definition of justification and sanctification, and worship within the church. This is particularly admirable, as he manages to thoroughly cover all these topics in less than 150 pages. It is well-written and well-researched.
I will say this--this book is not for everyone. I am the appropriate audience for this book--a Bible-believing Christian who was raised in a different church tradition and now wants to know what this "Reformed" fuss is all about. However, those new to the faith would be utterly lost here, as Hyde's writing assumes general scriptural knowledge. Additionally, while I felt that the writing was accessible, Hyde would occasionally lapse into some dry writing tendencies. The introductory paragraphs were often light and charming--occasionally the middle of chapters dragged along.
However, I found that this was a great introduction to the Reformed Church and can say with confidence that I know what these "guys" are all about, now!
February 9, 2018
A really useful introduction to reformed churches! Could be given to young adults or people exploring reformed faith. Also useful for "old hands" who have never been into reading much. A short book, easy reading. A chapter a day is barely any commitment at all. It's probably the sort of book that would be useful to have sitting around in the foyer of your church, with some spares to give away. Note: Hyde is Three Forms of Unity rather than Presbyterian/Westminster Standards.
November 13, 2014
I enjoyed this book. It was easy to read, conversational, and generally helpful. I have one complaint though- where are the Baptists at? Baptists historically would agree with a vast amount of what is in this book. And, right now in the USA, Baptists are seeing a huge boost in churches returning to a creedal, confessional, and elder-led framework. He doesn't mention Baptists anywhere though.
Except....except when he is answering F.A.Q.'s about how Christians in the Reformed tradition don't evangelize. His response is to cite a number of Historical individuals who were famous for their missionary efforts, INCLUDING William Carey and Adoniram Judson. Both of them are baptists but he never mentions that! All I'm saying is, where is the love for Baptist brothers and sisters who would consider themselves to be in the same tradition (and apparently he does to, at least when it's convenient for him)?
Baptists could have benefited from this book too. I still enjoyed his clear and simple explanations of practices and beliefs in the Reformed tradition. But, if he is going to hi-jack a few of us to bolster his depiction of the Reformed tradition, the least he could do is give us a mention. It's not like Baptists are a small group of Christians in this country. :-)
Except....except when he is answering F.A.Q.'s about how Christians in the Reformed tradition don't evangelize. His response is to cite a number of Historical individuals who were famous for their missionary efforts, INCLUDING William Carey and Adoniram Judson. Both of them are baptists but he never mentions that! All I'm saying is, where is the love for Baptist brothers and sisters who would consider themselves to be in the same tradition (and apparently he does to, at least when it's convenient for him)?
Baptists could have benefited from this book too. I still enjoyed his clear and simple explanations of practices and beliefs in the Reformed tradition. But, if he is going to hi-jack a few of us to bolster his depiction of the Reformed tradition, the least he could do is give us a mention. It's not like Baptists are a small group of Christians in this country. :-)
November 20, 2014
Passable but provincial intro to Reformed Churches. Hyde writes in an approachable manner to someone who is familiar with the faith, but a new believer would struggle to make sense of this book in a number of places. He tries to cast a wide net, referencing multiple confessions and catechisms, but becomes idiosyncratically narrow on several current hot-button issues. These points, largely centered around justification and imputation, turn his focus from giving a general introduction to making an extra-confessional defense of certain points. Telling is his extended quotation from an individual theologian rather than (as per usual) a confessional document to argue for a particular take on Christ's active obedience. I'd be happy if people exploring Reformed churches found this book; I'd be even happier if they came across a less parochial guide.
November 10, 2010
Short review: I read this for the learning, so I am not critiquing Reformed Theology. I appreciate the strong focus on scripture, creeds, theology and learning of Reformed Theology, but this book is a bit much if it is written for a new Christian or a non-Christian without a lot of theological background.
The first third of the book is a reflection on the 3 universal creeds and the 3 Reformed creeds. From there it turns to systematic theology. It is only in the appendix that there is a straight forward question and answer section that I really found some actual answers. I am not opposed to the format, but it is definite not what I thought I was getting.
Full review on my blog at http://www.mrshields.com/welcome-to-a...
The first third of the book is a reflection on the 3 universal creeds and the 3 Reformed creeds. From there it turns to systematic theology. It is only in the appendix that there is a straight forward question and answer section that I really found some actual answers. I am not opposed to the format, but it is definite not what I thought I was getting.
Full review on my blog at http://www.mrshields.com/welcome-to-a...
May 21, 2012
A good book that defines the doctrines and the workings of a confessional reformed church. Upon reading, I have found what the difference is between being a "reformed church," and being "reformed in theology." He's spot on when he's talking about the doctrines of grace, but it's the process in which a reformed church functions that I would personally differ. A practicing, confessional reformed church holds to the regulative principle, where I would hold to a normative principal, and they also believe in infant baptism. Thankfully they don't believe that you obtain any meritious grace in the act, but that it's more of a sign of the New covenant. Either way, I would disregard infant baptism because I just can't see their biblical argument as sound or clearly evidenced in the scriptures.
January 13, 2015
Great overview on what reformed churches believe and what to expect when you enter the doors of a "reformed" church. Some parts were a bit dry for my taste, but overall I enjoyed the book and will come back to it from time to time as a reference guide. The index in the back will be super helpful for this. As far as the author goes, this wets my appetite for his other books. Saw many titles that sparked my interest in the back of the book. Great selection from Ligonier Ministries. Pick up your copy today!
December 28, 2014
I thought this did a pretty good job of explaining what a Reformed Church is, and what it is not. It is primarily a "church", that is, a group of believers who worship Christ, not a "club". He goes into a reformed view of the sacraments, worship, doctrines of grace, five solas, etc. Really a broad treatment that specifically targets someone who is just getting interested in "Calvinism" and in what it means to be a "Reformed Church". It doesn't go into much detail but is a good introduction for its target audience.
December 27, 2014
A good introduction to Reformed theology. The author extensively quotes from the confessions throughout. Of particular use are the appendix with FAQs that he, as a pastor of a Reformed church, receives and the suggested bibliography with books for further reading on various issues.
I think it would be a good companion to Sproul's What Is Reformed Theology.
I think it would be a good companion to Sproul's What Is Reformed Theology.
July 31, 2015
I enjoyed the book. Put a few things into perspective and helped me get a better understanding of church history and why there are focuses on certain ideas, processes, etc. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone who wants to get a basic understanding of the reformed church. The q&a at the end was also really helpful.
January 5, 2017
The book provides a guide especially to those who are wanting to learn more about the Reformed movement. It provides a lot of historical background, and focuses on the creeds as well. I did not find it easy to read and as such it took me a long time to finish but I was not able to process it well. This may well be attributed to me than to the book.
December 4, 2010
This is a great guide for newcomers to the Reformed Church, or even newcomers to the faith. Concise and understandable, this book is quite the summary for the doctrines of the Reformation. Highly recommend it!
May 11, 2012
A really easy read. Very concise and to the point. It's a great introduction to anyone wondering what reformed churches are all about. I kinda wish I knew about this book while I was making the transition years ago.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews