Chosen by God

If you are a seeker of God's truth and believe all that is written in the bible, then read this. But If you are afraid to find out you have been wrong in your believe all your Christian life, then, this book is not for you. Let me just remind you that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but He has clearly stipulated that the truth shall set you free, and you shall be free indeed!
Wonderful book specially for those who want to understand clearly the Sovereignty of God in Salvation.
R.C. Sproul is a gifted and godly teacher of the word of God, this book is a must for every serious Christian who desires to believe, teach and preach what the bible says its the truth.

Dr. Sproul, as usual, provides an excellent resource for those interested in digging deeper into their understanding of the basic concepts of the Christian faith. Sovereign Election is one of those difficult concepts that Dr. Sproul tackles using his preferred method of logic and reason. If Dr. Sproul is anything, he is logical and reasonable. Chosen by God deals with the arguments for and against Election, and is extremely helpful in focusing the reader on the real questions. The overarching concept is that God is a supreme being and we are human beings. We have the "beings" part in common, but there are differences between being "supreme" and being "human". Election is the manifestation of one of those differences.

Very interesting, however, I felt it was a lot of "theology" still relying on the author's interpretation of
scriptures, even though he claimed it was strictly Biblically interpreted. I wasn't convinced by his
argument, even though he presented, at least to him, a strong one. I understand he is very respected
in the Christian community and the book was recommended to me highly, but I wasn't swayed to his
way of thinking. However, he introduces some very good food for thought.

What a great book of encouragement. It is full of challenging thoughts that are shown to be truly magnificent and according to the scriptures. Thank you Brother RC for another fully biblical book that should be on every Christian's MUST READ list. And thank you that you are not afraid to tackle the most difficult thoughts in the Bible and for making them so much easier to understand.

This is one of the best Reformed Theology (intro) reads yet. Excellent job providing scripture and refuting other viewpoints in a non-insulting way. I definitely have a better understanding of election now, than I did before I read the book. James R. White and this author have my vote for "Best Books on Reformed Theology."

This book is very good on explaining the doctrine of election and predestination. I like the transparency of the author. I was a Christian who didn't thought much about this topic, however, the Holy Spirit has led me into a path of studying this doctrine. I can say that I am compelled to accept the Augustinian view of predestination.

My second Sproul book , BUT , the most important in terms of bringing my Christian outlook into a Reformed position! It is a "little-powerhouse" and to my mind PROVES the doctrine of Election as altogether Biblical! BLESSINGS TO ALL IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST!

Chosen by God was a terrific book, but then I think that all of R.C. Sproul's books I have read are terrific. I highly recommend this book to any Christian. He presents his belief in a very clear manner.

R.C. Sproul is a teacher. He systematically takes us on a journey of discovery; addressing questions along the way when appropriate and leaving others to circle back to later after foundational truths have first been fleshed out. I appreciate this about his writing! He doesn't hand us a Theology. He leads us down a path of thought that examines all possibilities along the way in such thoroughness that it forces us to go beyond the point where we find a thought satisfying to our palate - he takes us all the way to its logical conclusion. We usually don't like what we find there but see the truth in what he says.

I've been looking for a book that was helpful in both explaining the Calvinist Theology and the Armenian Theology. I found it here. I was able to think through Theology in a way it couldn't do on my own. It has proven to be very helpful in clarifying and explaining the foundation of the Gospel.

I was incredibly satisfied with the book "Chosen by God" by R. C. Sproul, which I purchased in "Very Good" condition. To me, the condition was even better than my expectations, as there was very little noticeable wear. The fact that it came with an immaculate book jacket was the cherry-on-top of the Sundae! This book is a wonderful addition to my growing library.

Dr. R C Sproul explains the predestination fairly clearly provided it is not an easy topic to a lot of people. He explored the topic by asking some very tough questions and I think he has explained them with a way that most people can understand. I still have many questions in this area but I have found the book is very helpful as a starting point.

Outstanding presentation on the heart of the issue. Well written and readable for all readers. If many more would read this, I am sure it would go far to clear up much of the "hear-says opinions" of many people in the pulpits and pews in today's "PC" churches.

Life changing book. Dr. Sproul started me on my serious study of the Orthodox Christian faith (previously a Baptist/Dispensationalist) which I believe is best understood according to the Reformed/Presbyterian understanding of the Bible.

Excellent book for everyone that holds to a Reformed view. And should be give to all other so they can be blessed with the gift of Grace that Jesus has givin' you freely, and the comfort to know you have been chosen. Praise be to our Lord!!

Although I have not made a firm decision about everything concerning the doctrine of predestination, so many of my questions and critics about the doctrine have been addressed and eloquently answered in this book. There was not a point in this book where I wasn't being challenged.

I was looking for a theologically sound and engaging book on predestination. Sproul went beyond my wildest imagination at his depth, understanding of questions people ask, and backing everything up with Scripture

This author states over and over he is not a Calvinist but this book made me feel so horrible about my faith I had to stop reading it (at 90% completed) on Kindle. It literally put me in a spiritual funk the entire time I was reading it.

A professorial dissertation on predestination and Reformed theology. Much human logic and illustrations but not much specific reference to Scripture. No challenge to the reader to search out the truth from the Scriptures, but a clear and somewhat contradictory presentation of the Reformed view.

It was better than some I have read, but in this book Sproul is, for me, too wordy and nit-picky.
If I can use the analogy of a cake, it's kind of like he over analyzes the top layer, but doesn't give the same attention
to the bottom layer.

This book was excellent in reinforcing my belief that the Calvinists have it all wrong. I would agree with Sproul at the beginning of his argument, but based on scriptures he used, would come to the the exact opposite conclusion that he did using the same scriptures. So based on that premise, I would recommend it to anyone that is well versed in scriptures to reinforce their commitment to the biblical version of predestination.

I'm giving this book a 4 star rating, not because I agree with the book, was persuaded by the author's arguments or even because I thought the book was well written. It is because the book proved to show the weakness of the predestination argument, which is solely based off human logic and doesn't hold up to biblical text. I had to read this book for a course I am taking and I'm only to chapter 3, but had to stop and write a review encouaging other like-minded christians and cautioning those who are still babes in the faith.

To both I say search out the scriptures, the author references, thoroughly. What I mean by that is, when he references, one of the mere handful, of scriptures he uses to argue his case, look it up. And don't just read the one line he is referencing, because on the surface that one line of scripture could possible persuade you that his arguement is sound. However, after reading several lines and even chapters before and after the line of verse referenced, you discover that most of the time the biblical writer is speaking of a different context all together, and reading that one line of scripture in the context it was written has nothing to do with Spoul's argument or his definition of predestination. Often, in many cases, the line before and/or after the line Spoul references completely contradicts the point he is claiming and arguing for.

I will give you an example: On page 45 Spoul references Genesis 6:5 to state that Scripture declares that the heart of fallen man continually harbors desires that are ONLY wicked.

Genesis 6:5 says, "Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually."

If you stop there it seems like the Bible is confirming Spoul's arguement. However, let's read a few verses farther.

Genesis 6:6-7
"And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So the Lord said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord."

We find here that not only is the Lord speaking of the days of Noah and the horrible wickedness that plagued the earth, grieved the Creator and caused the cleansing that followed, it also says that Noah was different. He wasn't seen as full of wickedness only. He found favor and was spared because of His goodness. God chose to start over with his family because of his righteousness among such an evil world. If Spoul were correct and Noah had been like all the others with only evil then he would have been destroyed as well. Don't believe me? Read what the Lord says about Noah next.

Genesis 7:1
"This is the genealogy of Noah. Noah was a just man, PERFECT in his generations. Noah walked with God."

Let's look at the amplified version of that line of scripture...

"This is the history of the generations of Noah. Noah was a just and righteous man, BLAMELESS in his [evil] generation; Noah walked [in Habitual fellowship] with God."

Spoul would argue that God, in his sovereignty, is the one who put that goodness in Noah's heart and predetermine and predestined him for goodness because Noah could not do it on his own because he was fallen and had no goodness on his own. Left to his own fallen nature he would NOT have chosen to be righteous or chosen to walk habitually with God, apart from God giving him the desire to do so. He uses John Edwards reasoning and logic, and NOT biblical scripture, to argue this point and confesses that the predestination doctrine, the poster child for Calvinism, is founded on this principle of man's utter and complete fallenness to evil alone.

Father down on page 45 he states...

"Edwards declares that man's problem with sin lies with his moral ability, or lack thereof... Before we can choose good, we must first have a desire for good... The sum and substance of the whole debate on predestination rests squarely at this point: Does fallen man, in and of himself, have a natural desire for Christ? Edwards answers this question with an emphatic "NO!" He insists that, in Fall, man lost his original desire for God. When he lost that desire, something happened to his freedom. He lost the moral ability to choose Christ. In order to choose Christ, the sinner must first have a desire to choose Christ. Either he has that desire already within him or he must receive that desire from God. Edwards and all who embrace the Reformed view of predestination [which Spoul is arguing for] agree that if God does NOT plant that desire in the human heart, then nobody, left to themselves, will ever freely choose Christ."

Now Spoul goes on to say that he is now trying to prove Edwards correct and will address these points with more biblical text later on, however I have skimmed through the rest of the book and the few one line scriptures he references, many of them he has already referenced in the previous chapters to argue his point, and as I've already said on further reading of those chapters His arguements hold no weight. So if the past is any indication of the future Spoul will continue with the same shallow reasoning and logic, lacking any scriptural meat, that he has thus far.

I will be sure to come back and let you know if he has redeemed himself by the end of the book. My hypothesis is that he won't, but I will give him the benefit of the doubt until then.

For now in response to his arguement of human fallenness referenced above I would ask Him this...

In the garden did Adam and Eve eat of the tree of the knowledge of evil only or did they eat of the knowledge of Good AND Evil?

Where exactly does the Bible say they lost the knowledge of good?

In fact scripture says the opposite...
God says they had both at the fall and that is the reason for their God imposed exodus...

Genesis 3:22
"Then the Lord God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. And now, lest he put out his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever”— therefore the Lord God sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground from which he was taken."

What about Cain and Abel? Did God give ONLY Abel the desire to give a good sacrifice, and if so then why not Cain? For he says to Cain...

Genesis 4:6
So the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? IF YOU do well, will you not be accepted? And IF YOU do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.”

The Lord is clearly saying that the choice to do well is Cain's to make and He says that Sin holds the desire to enslave Cain but that Cain can and should rule over sin. How would this even be possible according to Edwards and Spoul. Is God lying here? God is clearly saying that Cain had every ability, including both desires, to rule over sin without God's intervention.

So I guess it all comes back to the word "desire" and a belief that they didn't have a desire for good anymore after their disobedience, but to believe this a person has to draw an assumption and a conclusion based on the motives and condition of their hearts which the Bible tells us that only God can know. And Genesis doesn't tell us any such thing.
In the pages prior Spoul references Paul's teaching that both desire's for good and evil lie in us. I guess Spoul means they only lie in the chosen elect and not every man, only because God put them there and not in others.

What about Enoch that walked with God in such a way that He just had to take him and save him from death. Did God give him that desire?

What about Deuteronomy 30: 19-20 where Give two choices one good leading to life and blessings and one bad leading to death and cursing?

Here they have to have both desires to be able to make a choice between them, but in no place before or after am I seeing any scripture that says God gave them these desires and they didn't have them on their own. That is human reasoning and logic and not scriptually sound.

They got both good and evil in the garden with the fruit they ate and nowhere does it say that they lost the good and were left with only evil. Spoul argues that Adam and Eve had evil desires in the garden and that's why they were able to sin. However, the Bible clearly calls it disobedience and draws a distinction saying Eve was deceived but Adam knew what he was doing and chose to disobey. All of scripture puts the blame of the fall on Adam alone. Did he disobey because of Eve. Did he choose her over God? The Bible doesn't give motive for Adam's disobedience and we shouldn't assume to know motives. That is God's domain and His alone. The old adage about "assuming" is true. For lack of a better word, It makes us fools.

What about the New Testament? What about all the people Paul references in Hebrews whose faith was accounted to them for righteousness. Did God give them that faith? Is faith not also a choice? Is it also included in that which God chooses, in Spoul's definition of sovereignty, to only give to a few and not to others?

What about the scriptures that speak of how there is no partiality with God?

You see these arguements of predestination don't hold up to the totality of scripture. For them to have strength many assumptions have to be drawn, human reasoning and defining of certain words have to take place and scriptural text has to be cut out of its context and stand alone for predestination ring true. You can use a few scriptures out of context to argue it, but in further and deeper study it just doesn't hold up.

So search the scriptures as you read this book and let the Spirit teach you the truth for John promises,

1John 2:26-27
"These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you. But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you DO NOT need that ANYONE teach you; but as the same ANOINTING TEACHES you concerning ALL things, and is TRUE, and is NOT a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him."

God is not a man that He should lie. He teaches us ALL things pertaining to life and godliness.

Jesus said, "learn from me" He is the good TEACHER and HE IS TRUTH!

He promises that ...
John 8:31-32
"IF you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you SHALL KNOW the TRUTH, and the truth shall make you free.”

Jesus's words reveal the truth and expose the lies. Search them out while reading this book and always be mindful of the fact that Satan knows what God has said and will use and twist it to deceive us and get us to sin against God just like he did to Eve, tried to do in the desert with Jesus and continues to do with the Bible today. Paul warns us of doctrines of demons and encourages us to search out the scriptures for the truth and to abide in the Spirit that was given to us through Jesus's death and resurrection that will teach us the truth and expose the lies.

May we ALL (including Dr. Spoul) come to the knowledge of truth in the face of Jesus.

Amen.

Robert Charles Sproul, (born 1939) is an American Calvinist theologian, author, radio host, and founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries. He has written many books, such as The Invisible Hand: Do All Things Really Work for Good (Sproul, R. C. R.C. Sproul Library.) (Sproul, R. C. R.C. Sproul Library.) (Sproul, R. C. R.C. Sproul Library.).

Describing himself as a "converted Arminian" (pg. 13), he observes that Adam and Eve, unlike us, were NOT created "fallen," and they had no sin nature; they were good creatures with a free will. "Yet they chose to sin. Why? I don't know. Nor have I found anyone yet who does know." (Pg. 31) He admits the objection that for the non-elect, it would seemingly have been more loving of God not to have allowed them to be born. But then he poses the "really tough question: Is there any reason why a righteous God ought to be loving toward a creature who hates him and rebels constantly...?" (Pg. 32-33)

After asking the question, "Why does God only save some?" he frankly admits, "I don't know. I have no idea why God saves some but not all. I don't doubt for a moment that God has the power to save all, but I know that he does not choose to save all. I don't know why." (Pg. 36-37) However, he quickly adds that while he personally might PREFER that God give mercy to everyone equally, "I may not DEMAND it." (Pg. 38) Dealing with Romans 9:20-24, he admits, "This is a heavy answer to the question. I must confess that I struggle with it... (the text) sounds like God is actively making people sinners. But that is not required by the text." (Pg. 152-153)

After noting that groups like Young Life have a "frighteningly high rate of youngsters who make professions of faith and later repudiate that profession," he adds, "Those who become 'unconverted' were never converted in the first place." (Pg. 181) Discussing 2 Peter 3:9 (God is "not willing that any should perish"), he suggests, "I think what he is saying here is that God does not will that any of us (the elect) perish." (Pg. 197)

Unlike many expositors on this subject, Sproul is not afraid to face up squarely to the "tough questions." This is a very intellectually-challenging treatment of a difficult and controversial subject.

Predestination. Foreknowledge. Election. Free Will. Reprobation. These are among some of the most controversial and misunderstood terms that come up in theological discussions amongst evangelical Christians, and they are the concepts that Dr. Sproul addresses in his most influential little book, Chosen by God. All of these concepts are linked very tightly to one truth that most if not all orthodox Christians claim to accept: the Sovereignty of God. This topic, though, can lead to another whole discussion, as the question is raised: Just how sovereign is God? This, in my opinion, is rather a pointless question, because if God is not completely sovereign in every area of life, both material and spiritual, then He’s not sovereign, period. And if He’s not sovereign, then He’s not God. But the next question becomes: Can or does God choose at times or in certain situations not to exercise His sovereign control?

Many believers are willing to accept God as sovereign, until the subject of salvation is raised. To say that God is completely sovereign in the salvation of individuals seems to offend them, stepping on the toes of their precious free will. Sproul explains that he didn’t always hold to the view of predestination, election and God’s sovereignty in salvation. In seminary, one of Sproul’s professor, John Gerstner, challenged his students with this idea: “You are required to believe, to preach, and to teach what the Bibles says is true, not what you want the Bible to say is true.” As Sproul the student seriously studied the Scriptures, he gradually became convinced:

"Once I began to see the cogency of the doctrine and its broader implications, my eyes were opened to the graciousness of grace and to the grand comfort of God’s sovereignty. I began to like the doctrine little by little, until it burst upon my soul that the doctrine revealed the depth and the riches of the mercy of God. I no longer feared the demons of fatalism or the ugly thought that I was being reduced to a puppet. Now I rejoiced in a gracious Savior who alone was immortal, invisible, the only wise God."

Sproul jumps right in at the start of this book by identifying one problem that exists: the varying views and understandings of the doctrine of predestination held by different Christian groups. To sum up:

"The Reformed view of predestination teaches that before a person can choose Christ his heart must be changed. Non-Reformed views have fallen people first choosing Christ and then being born again. Here we find unregenerate people seeing and entering the kingdom of God."

Actually every Christian has a personal view of predestination, whether or not he is able to articulate it or to defend it biblically. Since the subject is addressed in the Scriptures. Sproul comments,

"It is not enough to have just any view of predestination. It is our duty to seek the correct view of predestination, lest we be guilty of distorting or ignoring the Word of God. Here is where the real struggle begins, the struggle to sort out accurately all that the Bible teaches on this matter."

Throughout his book, Sproul often makes a distinction between reformed (or Calvinist) teachings and non-reformed (or Arminian). If you don’t understand what these two camps hold to doctrinally, you will have a pretty good idea after reading the book. Perhaps you have negative perceptions of Calvinism as a system of theology, or you may be a person who has championed man’s free will and strongly opposed the ideas of election and predestination. I strongly recommend that you read Chosen by God with an open Bible and an open mind if your doctrinal stance is represented by any (or all) of the following statements:

- God gave man a free will; it’s our choice whether or not to believe and accept Christ.
- Foreknowledge means that God looked ahead, “through the corridors of time” to see who would choose Him, and those are the ones He elects to save.
- If God is sovereignly in control of everything, then we are nothing but puppets.
- Unless we freely choose to love God, it’s not authentic love.
- It wouldn’t be fair if God chose only some people to be saved.
- Jesus died on the cross to make salvation a possibility for everyone.
- How can God hold anyone accountable for their sin, when they were born with it and have no choice or ability to do anything about it?

In this short book, Dr. Sproul addresses each of these statements. He discusses such important issues as God’s mercy vs. God’s justice, the fall of Adam/Man, man’s sin nature/depravity, spiritual death & rebirth, double predestination/reprobation, the unpardonable sin, and assurance of salvation/eternal security. Dr. Sproul walks the reader through the process of analyzing these topics in a logical order and showing what the Word of God says. He anticipates the questions and objections that may be raised and masterfully answers them using the Scriptures as his foundation.

The following excerpts provide a little sampling of some of the key ideas Sproul expands upon:

“Our nature is so corrupt, the power of sin is so great, that unless God does a supernatural work in our souls we will never choose Christ. We do not believe in order to be born again; we are born again in order that we may believe.”

“People do not seek God. They seek after the benefits that only God can give them. The sin of fallen man is this: Man seeks the benefits of God while at the same time fleeing from God himself. We are, by nature, fugitives.”

“God gives mercy to the elect by working faith in their hearts. He gives justice to the reprobate by leaving them in their own sins. One group receives mercy. The other group received justice. No one is a victim of injustice. None can complain that there is unrighteousness in God.”

“Do we love a God who is sovereign? Do we love a God who sends people to hell? Do we love a God who demands absolute obedience? Do we love a Christ who will say to some on the last day, ‘Depart from me, I never knew you’? I am not asking whether we love this God and this Christ perfectly; I am asking whether we love this God and this Christ at all.”

Each chapter ends with a summary of key points and a list of scripture passages to help review the material just covered. In Chosen by God, R. C. Sproul examines some of the weightiest theological subjects, biblically and with clarity and conciseness. It’s important that, like the Bereans, we each, “search the Scriptures daily to see if these things are so,” that we may be able to recognize the false gospels that are all around us and become knowledgeable and firmly convinced of what we believe.

Robert Charles Sproul, (born 1939) is an American Calvinist theologian, author, radio host, and founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries. He has written many books, such as The Invisible Hand: Do All Things Really Work for Good (Sproul, R. C. R.C. Sproul Library.) (Sproul, R. C. R.C. Sproul Library.) (Sproul, R. C. R.C. Sproul Library.).

Describing himself as a "converted Arminian" (pg. 13), he observes that Adam and Eve, unlike us, were NOT created "fallen," and they had no sin nature; they were good creatures with a free will. "Yet they chose to sin. Why? I don't know. Nor have I found anyone yet who does know." (Pg. 31) He admits the objection that for the non-elect, it would seemingly have been more loving of God not to have allowed them to be born. But then he poses the "really tough question: Is there any reason why a righteous God ought to be loving toward a creature who hates him and rebels constantly...?" (Pg. 32-33)

After asking the question, "Why does God only save some?" he frankly admits, "I don't know. I have no idea why God saves some but not all. I don't doubt for a moment that God has the power to save all, but I know that he does not choose to save all. I don't know why." (Pg. 36-37) However, he quickly adds that while he personally might PREFER that God give mercy to everyone equally, "I may not DEMAND it." (Pg. 38) Dealing with Romans 9:20-24, he admits, "This is a heavy answer to the question. I must confess that I struggle with it... (the text) sounds like God is actively making people sinners. But that is not required by the text." (Pg. 152-153)

After noting that groups like Young Life have a "frighteningly high rate of youngsters who make professions of faith and later repudiate that profession," he adds, "Those who become 'unconverted' were never converted in the first place." (Pg. 181) Discussing 2 Peter 3:9 (God is "not willing that any should perish"), he suggests, "I think what he is saying here is that God does not will that any of us (the elect) perish." (Pg. 197)

Unlike many expositors on this subject, Sproul is not afraid to face up squarely to the "tough questions." This is a very intellectually-challenging treatment of a difficult and controversial subject.

Back in 2000, I started worshipping at Christ Covenant Church, a small Southern Baptist Church in Zionsville, Indiana. It was here where I was introduced to Dr. Sproul's Chosen By God. I was a new believer when I first read Sproul's examination of predestination, and I felt a second read was in order.

Chosen by God is over 210 pages long and is divided into nine chapters. Topics covered include the sovereignty of God, free will, regeneration, hyper-Calvinism, eternal security, the unpardonable sin, limited atonement, evangelism, and more. If these terms are unfamiliar to you, I highly recommend reading Dr. Sproul's book. If you are familiar with the terms but struggle comprehending that God chooses who goes to Heaven and who does not, I recommend this book. Chosen by God contains easy-to-read charts and lists, many pages of Scripture, and simple summaries at the end of the chapters. My second reading of Dr. Sproul's book was beneficial and enjoyable, and I will be sure to recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in learning about God's perfect plan.

the pages of the volume. Yes, as the book rather harshly describes, God is boss of the universe & reserves the right to fire whomever he chooses. However, R.C. Sproul offers no help to those of us who have a heart toward others & know better than to look down our noses at fellow sinners. Yet the author portrays God as some sort of capricious monster, just itchin' to get his cookies off throwing unchosen souls into the pit. Mmmhhhaahaahaawwwww!!!

I was wondering if I actually needed to read this book, as I have already read other R C books and was familiar with the arguments. Needless to say, this book refreshed a few things I forgot. It is more philosophical than biblical, although the Scripture is there. Although short in size, it is not necessarily an easy read. Sproul does something in this book that I have not seen him do elsewhere: he uses diagrams. A few are:
Justice/Non-justice Mercy
and then there is the not able not to sin diagram
Sproul's definition of the will's freedom is crucial in this book. In doing so he borrows from Jonathan Edwards: "Edwards defined the will as `the mind choosing'...before we ever make moral choices we must have some idea of what we are choosing...my inclination and my motives are shaped by my mind....I act according to those inclinations...
Ergo:
The will always chooses according to its strongest inclination at the moment" (54)." So in reality, we are slaves to our own free-will.
In the next chapter he goes on to illustrate how any denial of original sin necessarily entails vicious question begging, especially if pressed on how society becomes bad.
As to the reviewer from Glendale, CA, he started out writing a fair review but then got off track. As to whether Schaeffer was an Arminian, bear in mind that he was a Presbyterian and did graduate from a Presbyterian seminary. Furthermore, According to theologians Scott Burston and Gerry Walls, Schaeffer was a soft-determinist in the tradition of Van Til, unlike most Arminians. Other misconceptions of Schaeffer self-destruct upon scrutiny. And yes, Geisler is a four-point Arminian, believing only in eternal security. Furthermore, Sproul gives a correct interpretation of helko. The reviewer claims that the normal meaning of the word doesn't count in John 6:44, in doing so he interposes a different context onto the one in 6:44. Finally, concerning Romans 9, and I can only mention one part. I know that this debate will never be solved, but if the whole chapter is on service rather than salvation, then why at the beginning does Paul wish himself accursed and cut off from Christ? That is understandable if one's people were damned, but it seems like emotional over-kill if they are not chosen for ministry.
But what practical value does the denial of free will have for evangelism? Sproul, Boice, and Van Til maintain that if the sinner believes that he can choose God today, then he can put it off and choose God tomorrow, ad infinitum. If he realizes that he cannot choose God, but is a slave to sin, then he has to come to grips with how DESPERATE his situation is! He is driven to his knees in awful desperation. Then, and only then,can he realize that he cannot save himself. Which is what the gospel is about.

RC Sproul wrote this book some time ago now, but it is still a standard text for understanding the reformed doctrine of predestination and probably will be for some time. There are a number of compelling strengths of this book which make the book worthy of purchase, but it is a book that could have been improved in a couple of ways as well.
This book is a very smooth read. The book is about 200 pages, and I read the whole thing in about a six hour timespan. The book flowed very well from chapter to chapter, and as a reader, I found myself almost gliding through the material, not because it's watered down, but because the writing style is so smooth. Because of this, I think this book might well be the best beginner level book on predestination available, because it allows a reader who is interested in a difficult doctrine but not well versed in theologeze or doctrinal debates the ability to grapple with this doctrine in a meaningful way without getting lost or bogged down.
Having cited the above strength, however, I want to make clear that this book does indeed deal substantively with this doctrine in a way that more experienced readers will find profitable. Sproul effectively takes on the contemporary views concerning free will. In particular, he eloquently demonstrates that the popular view of equating free will with autonomy is utterly absurd on every level. In addition, he does a good exegetical job of dealing with a number of passages in Scripture that relate to this topic.
While these strengths commend the book nicely and make it a very good read, I thought the book could have been improved. In my view, Sproul does not effectively deal with the 'fatalism' objection. As Sproul mentions in his chapter on objections, it is difficult to thoroughly deal with these objections without writing whole treatises on them. But the objection of fatalism is perhaps the most serious objection to Reformed theology and to this doctrine in particular. In my view, anyone writing a book on the Reformed doctrine of predestination has to know that this objection is the single biggest reaction against the doctrine, and as such, any book that attempts to meaningfully deal with the doctrine has to substantively interact with this objection. Sproul does not, and it is a weakness of the book.
Sproul's discourse on the role of evangelism, given the Reformed view of predestination, was also too sparse. Sproul's argumentation basically boils down to saying that evangelism is necessary only by divine fiat, as opposed to a more developed Reformed view. Lastly, Sproul's treatment of the problem of evil also could have been a bit better. But again, in these kind of theological discussions, it's hard to separate the problem of evil from the objection of fatalism. If one isn't effectively dealt with, the chances are that the other won't be either.
So while I recognize that my criticisms of the book may seem harsh, I still want to stress that this book is very good because although it has its weaknesses, its strengths are formidable and informative, and are worthy of consideration and reflection.

In "Chosen by God," R.C. Sproul does a fabulous job of explaining and defending the Christian doctrines of election and predestination from a Calvinist viewpoint. This book has proved to be an invaluable resource -- and a source of validation -- for people who, like me, are constantly bombarded by Arminian theology.
Dr. Sproul takes the classic acronym TULIP and expounds on each of its five major elements, actually suggesting alternate letters to comprise the acronym -- I think he ended up with something like RSLEP, which doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. Much of the book focuses on the critical need to understand the concept of human depravity and fallenness -- the "T" in TULIP. Once that doctrine is adequately communicated, the remaining four points follow almost of logical necessity. I personally love his nutshell summary of these great truths: "Some receive justice; others receive mercy. No one receives injustice."
Dr. Sproul is very thorough in defending the Calvinist model against all of the main criticisms and arguments leveled by Arminians. No stone is left unturned as he debunks each of these unbiblical myths. And he does it all in an extremely readable manner. The book is written for the layperson, and is very successful in speaking to its target audience without sounding like a dry dissertation.
When I finished this book, I was left with a new appreciation for just how marvelous God's grace is to us as sinful human beings. I was at the same time truly grateful and humbled that God would choose me of all people to enjoy his mercy, salvation and eternal blessings. In other words, Dr. Sproul provides a gift of perspective by articulating these wonderful doctrines clearly and in a way that hits the reader right where he lives.
This book is a "must read" for every Christian. Having a fuller understanding of these truths can only strengthen your walk with God.

Since its publication in 1986, <em>Chosen By God</em> has become a classic introduction to Calvinism, for it is clearly one of the best introductions to Calvinism available. Sproul, ever the theologian but one with a gift for making the complex simple, begins with an introduction to God's sovereignty and then moves to free will before tackling the 5-points of Calvinism (as summarized in the acronym TULIP). He changes several of the terms, so the acronym eventually reads RULEP, but provides good justification for doing so. Not being one to back down from a fight, Sproul also tackles the subject of double predestination and assurance of salvation. The book closes with a Questions and Objections section which answers some of the most common objections to Calvinism, such as "Is predestination fatalism?" and "What does predestination do for the task of evangelism?"

It is important to note that this book is only an introduction to Calvinism, so does not provide exhaustive commentary on any single topic, each of which could easily become a book of its own. While 200 pages is plenty to introduce topics, it certainly does not allow for in-depth discussion.

The chapters on God's Sovereignty and Free Will were particularly well-written and alone are worth the price of the book. A book that discusses difficult concepts but does so in a biblical manner, and ultimately provides very satisfying conclusions, I give this one my unreserved recommendation.

This is a great resource along side the word of God. We are chosen by God (Predestination) which is such important doctrine of the Christian life. RC Sproul is a great teacher and writer. I always get a great meal of meat and potatoes with chocolate cake and ice cream. He is very thorough with his teaching. He himself had trouble with this doctrine and explains why. Myself I always had trouble understanding this truth. Does it mean that God is not a God of love?! It is because of his mercy and justice. He would not be sovereign if it was any other way. Man also has a free will with desires and with those desires, choices are made. However, with God, we cannot have Godly desires because of our sinful nature. There is so much to this, so in closing, I would like to add that this is important because it determines what "God" we embrace. God's word says that he will give Mercy to whom he will give mercy. It is because of his mercy, we can have salvation. Salvation is all from God thru Jesus Christ.

In "Chosen by God," R.C. Sproul does a fabulous job of explaining and defending the Christian doctrines of election and predestination from a Calvinist viewpoint. This book has proved to be an invaluable resource -- and a source of validation -- for people who, like me, are constantly bombarded by Arminian theology.
Dr. Sproul takes the classic acronym TULIP and expounds on each of its five major elements, actually suggesting alternate letters to comprise the acronym -- I think he ended up with something like RSLEP, which doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. Much of the book focuses on the critical need to understand the concept of human depravity and fallenness -- the "T" in TULIP. Once that doctrine is adequately communicated, the remaining four points follow almost of logical necessity. I personally love his nutshell summary of these great truths: "Some receive justice; others receive mercy. No one receives injustice."
Dr. Sproul is very thorough in defending the Calvinist model against all of the main criticisms and arguments leveled by Arminians. No stone is left unturned as he debunks each of these unbiblical myths. And he does it all in an extremely readable manner. The book is written for the layperson, and is very successful in speaking to its target audience without sounding like a dry dissertation.
When I finished this book, I was left with a new appreciation for just how marvelous God's grace is to us as sinful human beings. I was at the same time truly grateful and humbled that God would choose me of all people to enjoy his mercy, salvation and eternal blessings. In other words, Dr. Sproul provides a gift of perspective by articulating these wonderful doctrines clearly and in a way that hits the reader right where he lives.
This book is a "must read" for every Christian. Having a fuller understanding of these truths can only strengthen your walk with God.

In this book, Sproul does an excellent job of discussing the difficult subject of election is an easy to understand manner. Sproul presents the Calvinist viewpoint, but is respectful towards the Arminian viewpoint.
What many will appreciate is that Sproul first discusses his own struggle with this subject. As with most people, when first confronted with the idea of election, he rebelled against it. But in Sproul's case, John Gerstner, and a thorough study of the Scriptures, brought him to accept the Biblical doctrine of predestination.
Sproul overviews the main Biblical and logical arguments for predestination and the five points of Calvinism in general. He also provides an exegesis of some verses commonly cited against the five points. And he cites many Scripture references supporting the Calvinist viewpoint. Many more such supporting verses and refutations of proposed contrary verses are contained in the three chapters on this subject in my book "Scripture Workbook: For Personal Bible Study and Teaching the Bible."
If you've never studied this subject, you really need to. Although difficult, it is an important subject to consider. And Sproul's book the best introduction to this subject I have seen. And for further help in Biblical studies on this subject, see the chapters on this subject in my "Scripture Workbook."

This is a very popular treatment of the Reformed doctrine of predestination. What I am not going to do here is tickle someone's ears and try to rack up points for one side of the issue or another. But what I would like to do instead is comment on whether or not I felt the book is informative, useful, and helpful to Christians of all persuasions.
To supply a summary of the book would be redundant at this point since it has already been done so well in the many comments below, by persons on all sides of the question. And although I may disagree with some of the opinions in the reviews, I still had to admit that they were presented well and were helpful to my knowledge and therefore I gave those reviews a yes vote.
Personally speaking, I find that I tend to pick on, or even nitpick someone's theology when I am in actuality really upset with the way that it was presented. Perhaps the writer was not kind in the way that they spoke of other Christians, or perhaps they even called them names. Or maybe they spoke as if persons having other viewpoints were ignorant, or that they are false teachers. All these things, which have more to do with attitude and maintaining a Christian demeanor rather than theology, factor heavily into my like or dislike of a book.
I am convinced that we often judge books by their covers (or author, or position, etc.) before we even read the book. We just don't have ears to hear at those times. While it is impossible to completely divorce your theological viewpoint from your opinion of whether a book is good or not, there are many other factors that we might consider. I don't believe we should make the theological position taken as our sole criterion for judging a person's work. There are many books out there that I agree with in principle, but are in fact poorly written. I truly enjoy the writing of authors with several different backgrounds. One of the commentators below received a lot of negative votes simply because he said that he did not agree with the position taken, however, he actually gave the book (if I recall correctly) 5 stars! He was very gracious in giving the book 5 stars although he did not agree with it, and yet in return he received no mercy on the part of many of us whom I assume are professing Christians (this might even cause you to examine your thoughts on the possibility of carnal Christians.)
When I was thinking about this book, I asked myself questions such as, "Did the book make me think?", "Did it cause me to search the scriptures more diligently?" If it did, you are more likely stronger in your beliefs (no matter what side) after reading it than before. Does the author maintain a professional and "Chrisitan" demeanor when presenting his views? Does he call anyone names, or speak condescendingly of individuals with different points of view? Does he demonstrate maturity of thought? Is the book well organized and easy to understand? Are the theological arguments strong or weak? (This is different than asking, "Does he take my point of view?") Is the book interesting - could you put it down at anytime, or could you not wait to get to the end? These are the kinds of questions I ask myself when I write an opinion of a book.
No, I do not agree with everything Mr. Sproul says, even though he is a much better theologian than I may ever be. And yet, did I learn a lot from reading the book? Definitely! Is my perspective larger than it was before? Of course it is. Did I enjoy his style of writing? Very much. Is the book helpful to other Christians? I think it could be.
I feel that giving an honest effort to understand what other brothers believe (without stereotyping of course - everyone is still an individual) can help us to bridge the gap in our differences. We tend to fear what we don't understand. Once understood, we then may be able to discuss our feelings more productively - without being so emotional. I recommend this book.

Calvinism... The word conjures up images of a God who pulls the puppet strings of human beings, compelling them to do His will.
However, many great Christians have held to what is now called Calvinism (e.g. Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Jonathan Edwards).
Sproul is careful to carefully define all his terms and presents a strong case for Calvinism from the Bible. His writing is generally easy to follow (occasionally, it becomes a little difficult) and he dispels many of the myths concerning Calvinism.
To highlight what Calvinism is all about, it is necessary to understand the Calvinist (or Reformed) understanding of the spiritual condition of man. After the Fall, (by the way, Sproul defines original sin very precisely and accurately), humanity is spiritually dead... Only the active intervention of God will bring resurrect the spiritually dead. I could go on discussing what Calvinism is all about but you would best to read the book. For those familiar with TULIP (Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace and Perseverance of the Saints), Sproul does not deal with Limited Atonement in any detail (he said that it would require a whole book to properly delineate it). Sproul also ably deals with the charge of double predestination very well.
Overall, I would recommend the book for anyone wondering what Calvinism is all about, whether you be a Calvinist or an Arminian.

I already believed in predestination before I read this book. I have had several arguments with passionate friends about free will. I am a big fan of "Evangelism and The Sovereignty of God" by Packer. I have read this book twice. At the first reading, I was disgruntled with Sproul for critiquing Packer. After the second reading, I tend agree with Sproul. In other words, Sproul is fairly persuasive.

This book is a very good introduction to Calvinism and predestination. I have read other reviews about how this book persuaded people to accept Calvinism, but I do not know if it would have persuaded my Arminianist friends. However, Sproul does write clearly and writes to the lay reader. He focuses on explaining the concepts and a little bit of the historical context. He uses his own experiences of "converting" to Calvinism to good effect. He understands the difficulties in believing Calvinism and tries to address them. My criticism is that he could have better explained the scriptural passages within their context. He does this somewhat, but many times he quotes a verse and moves on. He uses rhetoric more than scriptural reasoning at times to prove his point. However, the book does a good job of explaining the beauty of Calvinism and its scriptural foundation. Sproul does not explain everything. Some of it is a mystery, but he does gives hints as how God remains just in the light of predestination.

This book is a classic. It is clear, concise, and humble. When a question is too hard to answer from scripture the author admits it is. He doesn't speculate about a potential philosophical answer, which is encouraging.

Dr. Sproul is a superb theologian, but I was disappointed at the lack of exegetical work done in this volume. He goes to great lengths to set forth logical and reason-based arguments for the doctrine of predestination, but often neglects the passages which speak clearly to the very points he is debating. (For instance, Romans 9 isn't even touched on until more than halfway through the book). Certainly his doctrine is founded in the teachings of scripture, but I longed for more direct application of the texts which teach predestination and more in-depth interaction with those which seem to be problematic for the Reformed view.

I would recommend this book, therefore, only to those who are unacquainted with or uncertain of the doctrine of election. Those who are convinced of the doctrine or who, like myself, willingly admit that it is taught in scripture but find the contrived interpretations of Shank and Geisler to be of little use, should consider this book only as a supplement to another more scripturally-centered book such as Luther's Bondage of the Will.

Again, it is not that I feel this is a bad book. It is, in fact, an excellent book, but it is not what I was looking for. I needed a straight-forward exposition of the passages which speak of predestination--most notably Romans 9 and Ephesians 1. I had hoped that Dr. Sproul would use these passages to set forth the Reformed doctrine of predestination. He makes many good and logically accurate points, but I find that I cannot accept human logic apart from scripture. Interestingly, what I felt was Sproul's best point seems to conflict with the style of much of the rest of the book. It is found on page 12 in the middle of the autobiographical introduction.

"YOU ARE REQUIRED TO BELIEVE, TO PREACH, AND TO TEACH WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS IS TRUE, NOT WHAT YOU WANT THE BIBLE TO SAY IS TRUE." Amen, Dr. Sproul.

Sproul's classic work should be found on the bookshelf of every pastor and/or teacher. Regardless if one's position is Calvinistic or not, this book provides a classic, timeless defense of five-point Calvinism. Sproul's arguments are persuasive and biblically based, so staunch Arminians will face a formidable challenge.
Sproul begins by sharing his own personal struggle as a former-Arminian (advocate of free-will salvation). He then relates that as he studied the Bible more intensely, he learned that it is more important for us to believe what the Scriptures SAY rather than what we would LIKE for them to say. Sproul didn't savor the prospect of being a Calvinist (advocate of predestined salvation), but moved to that stance because of the biblical support for it.
The author address each of the five points of Calvinism:
Total depravity of man
Unconditional election
Limited atonement
Irresistible grace
Perseverance of the saints
Sproul gives special attention to the "total depravity" of man, renaming it "radical corruption." He modifies other points of the well-known "TULIP" acrostic, using more accurate terms where necessary. He closes his book by offering responses to commonly raised questions regarding the Reformed (Calvinistic) position.
This book is a definite MUST READ for pastors and teachers. I am unaware of any other volume that defines so clearly and concisely the Reformed position. Buy it, read it and grow in your understanding of Reformed theology!

I've read this book, and given away copies of it to Arminian friends, and I've reread this book. It is very helpful in terms of learning about the basics of Calvinism. Dr. Sproul has done much in his lifetime towards the promulgation of Reformed theology in today's church.
His focus historically, is on the major players in Reformed thought - such as Calvin, Luther, Augustine and Edwards. I do have a problem with his listing Aquinas as a Calvinist on page 14, because that is simply not true. There may have been some similarities in Aquinas' views on predestination, but that would be credited to his use of language, not on the definitions of terms that Aquinas provided. Aquinas was a Roman Catholic and therefore betrays any notion or possibility of holding to Reformed views. It seems that Sproul has an affinity for Aquinas which is too bad. His contemporary list is accurate, including Francis Schaeffer who was undoubtedly a Calvinist as opposed to what one reviewer claims. Granted, some of Schaeffer's apologetic methodology didn't line up with his soteriology, he nonetheless was a Calvinist! He said so himself! And Sproul would know, the two were friends.
The book's strong points are its focus on God's sovereignty in salvation. He provides easy to understand examples from life and the Bible to show God's sovereignty. The section in chapter two called The Sovereignty of God should be read and reread until one comes to a full understanding of what is being said.
Sproul's explanation of mercy and justice is extremely helpful and is likely the point in the book where I just couldn't stop smiling being so impacted by the truth of it all. This provided an excellent seguay into the relationship between God's sovereignty and man's responsibility. Here Sproul follows Packer's argument for antinomy which is surprising considering Sproul's love for Jonathan Edwards. It would have made more sense for him to refer to Edwards' view on the two wills of God as John Piper has done (see [...] Although antinomy is a good answer to this problem, it is not the best as Piper has shown.
Thankfully Sproul refers the reader to Edwards in chapter 3 on the issue of free will. I know of no other Christian theologian who dealt with this better than Edwards in his treatise On The Freedom of the Will. I believe Sproul handles it well. Especially with his explanation of natural verses moral inability.
The different charts and diagrams are helpful in visualizing what Sproul is saying. As well as his use of illustrations.
The weak point of the book is that he doesn't refer to the Bible as much. Granted, the Bible is being used, I think that it could have been used a bit more. Sometimes Sproul falls into using philosophy a little too much. I guess that is understandable considering philosophy is one of Sproul's primary interests.
I would heartily recommend this book.

Like some of the other reviewers, I was an Arminian and I remember thinking that the Calvinist position had a weak view on sin and personal responsibility. Sproul's teaching on Total Depravity truly opened my eyes. It firmed up for me my place in the universe, God's place, and the level of grace and mercy that I had received.
That is not to say that I didn't throw the book across the room a couple of times during the process.
My favorite parts of this book were Sproul's treatments on Romans 3 and Romans 9. It took about two years to come to terms with the shifts in my theological perspective. This book has helped me to understand God's sovereignty and to take comfort in the fact that all things are under His control. It's good to be liberated from the image of a God who's wringing His hands wondering if people will accept His gracious offer.

We were looking for an unabridged reading of the book Chosen by God by RC Sproul. This "unabridged audio book" is actually a compilation of 6 thirty minute lectures taught by RC Sproul. The content is similar to the book, but this is not an "unabridged audio book".

i am very pleased witht the way that r.c. sproul has presented the reformed view in a society in which people want nothing more than to control their own fates. i have three main points with which i am pleased:
1. dr. sproul is very thorough and concise, as he always is, in his addressing the five points of calvinism. he presented them completely and correct, e.g. his having altered tulip and made rudep.
2. he presents opposing views and in an scholarly and kind manner he shows their fatal flaw. this seems to come like second nature to dr. sproul b/c he has obviously had some training in philosophy and logic.
and 3. sproul addresses the fact that if you hold to the non-reformed view and yet you agree with total depravity.... you lose the whole argument.
all in all i am extremely pleased; both as a calvinist and as a thinker.

I remember when I first sat down to read Chosen by God, I completed it the same night! At that time, I was diligently studying the Scriptures and reading everything that I could on the topic of predestination. Sproul has a delightful writing style that should be enjoyable for practically everyone, even if you are not reformed in your soteriological views.

This book touches on the theological and philosophical realm of Calvinism. If you are beginning your investigation of the topic, or in the middle of it, this book will be rewarding. It is not like reading Augustine or Calvin directly, but then again, that is not the intent of this book. Sprouls ministry fills in where Sunday school leaves off and seminary picks up.

Sproul is a Calvinist, not a hyper-Calvinist, and can help guard you from drifting to far in your theology. This book has already become a classic in our day and will provide you with a solid introduction to the doctrine of predestination.

Positives:The Work is clear with illustrations and stories to add color (as colorful as R.C. Sproul can be). The logical flow of the work is clear and helpful, Sproul does not get bogged down in details but moves along, Church history is discussed to set the context then some key Biblical texts.

Limitations:I am a Calvinist and enjoyed the work overall, but the work is for beginners and antiquated. For beginners: it deals with only a few thinkers (Augustine, Calvin, Edwards), and only a few texts (John 6, Ros. 8, 9, Heb. 6). Little on John 10, Eph 1, Heb. 10, Acts. Antiquated: There is current debate among Calvinist scholars regarding the pronoun in Ro. 5:12 (the strongest verse for orginal sin/guilt), so another strong text needed to be adduced since the debate is too technical for this work. The work is one-sided in nearly ignoring Pelagius, Ariminius, Wesley, etc.

For a more exegetically and historically rigorous understanding of the issue, see Why I Am Not an Arminian, especially if you are going to teach on this.

Overall, the work was a very good introduction and I would recommend it to beginners in this area of Systematics.

While I not only disagree with his view of predestination this book helped to better bolster my position of an Armenian view of predestination. I believe that this is a book that is very beneficial to read for several reasons. First, Mr. Sproul does a great job of building an argument and you can learn from him. I don't think he did a very good job of defending his argument but he did a great job of building it. Second, reading this with someone that has a good understanding of the Armenian view of predestination will help you to see both sides and learn to stand firm in your beliefs (unless you already have a good understanding yourself). What I mean by this is that so many of our young people get into college and they are faced with Professors that build great arguments and are very convincing. They are not used to defending their own stance and don't know how to see through fast talking, complex arguments such as Sproul presents. Thus they end up falling for any teaching that is well presented.

Depending where you are on your journey of intellectual advance, this work is either completely useless or invaluable. To those who have even a smattering of an introduction to this doctrine, please go elsewhere. This book is for beginners!

If you are, however, UN-initiated in the complexities of determinism and its applications, including theology (salvation in this instance), this book will provide the absolutely invaluable service of providing the clearest and freshest introduction to the subject that one can find in print. You will feast on its lucid brevity and your imagination will ineffably be lifted to a new horizon.

That being said, having read this work, I suggest you buttress your imagination by acquiring works that delve more into and take into account the technical aspects and uses of the Greek and the history surrounding those to whom the letters containing the supposed doctrine were written. Chosen By God does not adequately conduct the exegesis required to secure authentic certainty in the truthfulness of this doctrine. So all that is learned in this book (the implications and the applications) may be unfounded in the end. Theological studies have the inherent weakness of assuming too much about the text--and Sproul falters in this regard as well. To be sure, he does refer to the TDNT (the theological dictionary of the new testament), but not in detail.

Read this fine work but supplement its weaknesses by studying the details.

I learned what I knew about God in Charismatic Christian churches from quite a young age, I believed and said the little invitation to my heart prayer (at least 4 separate times) but it never had a lasting effect on me. And I fell away for many many years. Then I read the Bible straight through for the first time in my life 3 years ago. BLEW MY MIND. I realized that most things I had been told about God and Christ in church just simply were not Biblical. I began to study the bible. God revealed His truth and I was TRULY SAVED!!!
This book is amazing. And biblical. And the truth.
My sister would be described as a carnal Christian in today's churches. I sent her a copy...

***** The most contraversial issue among Christians might not be predestination, but that is certainly one of the main ones. When God began His plans for the world, did He randomly choose some to find salvation through the grace of Christ, or is it all up to us? In this mini-book, the author carefully spells out the three dominant views held by Christians, Augustine's, Pellagianism, and semi-Pellagianism. Though the third is the most dominant view, that does not necessarily make it the true one. Even if you go into this book by holding fast to a contrary belief, before the last page closes, you will find yourself having to consider the other side. Though brief, each word packs a tremendous punch and gives readers much to think about, even too much. *****
Reviewed by Amanda Killgore.

Before I read this book, I was a free-will advocate though I attend a Presbyterian Church. Many of my friends will tell you in a heartbeat (if you ask them) that I am extremely opinionated, but have an open mind. Getting me to accept predestination required about half the book, and a failed witnessing-to-convert attempt, which probably helped me along that road. He uses scripture and good logic to show how predestination is how God saves his creation through Christ's death and resurrection. To answer a critic on the "lack" of scripture; there is extremly little scripture that can be used in the predestination/free will debate. Though this book does have flaws in it, the point is the same, God chose us to come to him before we chose Him.

R.C. Sproul has written a book that will help you better understand the age-old debate between Calvinism and Arminianism. Despite which side of the debate you believe, you owe it to yourself to read this book. Perhaps you will see your opponent in a different light or perhaps you will learn things that will give you a stronger faith. Chapter 8 is especially recommended if you have ever struggled over the question, "Is it possible to know for sure that you are saved?" I highly recommend that you read it!

Sproul did not turn me into a Calvanist, but I sure like his style. The book certainly gave me a lot to think about; the author makes the sometimes unpopular arguments as well as anyone I have read. I wish I had the opportunity to ask a few followup questions! The subject of predestination as a product of God's foreknowledge was skimmed over too lightly. The author also takes a few "shortcuts" ( granted a book has space limitations ), and sometimes argues too quickly to a predetermined conclusion. Nontheless, I like his style!

Great book. R.C. Sproul helped turn me to Calvinism. I read some of the Arminian reviews and am distressed. The best illustration of Calvinism is thus: go to a cemetary and ask the dead to rise w/o God's help.
Sproul uses his background in philosphy to lay the groundwork for cogent and logical arguments.
I didn't like being a Calvinist at first, but I know realize it's sweetness and beauty. Our original sin, our orientation, justly condemns us, but due to His mercy we are saved.

Several comments are in order in defense of the book. One of the readers claim that the book erred in saying that Norman Geisler was arminian, when in fact he was moderate calvinist. The book Chosen but Free, by Geisler, proves beyond a reasonable doubt that his "moderate calvnism" with its "irresisitible grace" only for those already willing, "unconditional election" for those who will come on their own freewill, and total depravity that does not bind one to sin, is nothing more than actually glorified semi-pelagian. At least arminians admit God's grace is needed for one to come, and that faith is a gift, something Geisler denies, thus showing that he is as opposed to true calvinism as one can be but one point: preservation of the saints. To another customer who says that Sproul presented calvinism as denial of human responsibility apparently he misread or read what he wanted to into the book in order to attack it. In fact, a whole chapter of the book deals with sovereignty of God and human free will, which in that case is spoken of as human responsibility in the whole issue. Sproul also spoke of us doing our job to witness to those who are unsaved knowing that God will do His. Sounds like human responsibility to me. It should be pointed out that the customer misrepresented calvinism, as presented by Sproul, on original sin. It is true, that calvinism holds to Adam's sin being imputed to man as such that all fell in Adam, and born sinners. Actually that is what Romans 5 says. So, the customer's problem is wit the Bible. However, the customer says that man when he is judged is punished for Adam's sin not his own. That is inaccurate. God punishes man as an individual sinner who by nature sins, and calvinism does hold to man being judged for his own sins at the last day rather than for Adam's sin. All have sinned as the Bible says. It is Adam's sin that made all sinners. I should remind that reader that Sproul on his point about double predestination says God predestinating someone to hell is in light of the fall as justice for the person who is the one, not Adam, in constant rebellion against God. See the section when the author Sproul spoke on Pharaoh when his heart was hardened to show that God does NOT work fresh evil in the person's heart. I also find the appeal to John 12:32 to say John 6:44 cannot mean irresisitible grace a weak assertion. If one has read the whole verse, it says, "no one can come to Me UNLESS the Father who sent Me DRAWS him, AND I WILL raise him at the last day." If one ignores the last half of the verse which contains Christ's promise of glorification for the believer (see verse 39, which shows being raised at last day is for believer only here in context), then one would miss the part that shows that not only the person could not come unless the Father draws, but when the Father do draw, the person will (not maybe) being raised at the last day. It shows not only will the person come to Christ, but also he will remain in Christ to be raised at the last day. Also, John 6:45 says that they ALL will be taught by God, referring to who the Father draws. Jesus goes to say who are taught by the Father WILL come to Christ. In referring to John 12:32 to say all are drawn and some refuse, I cite John 6:64-65 which states the REASON some refuse when the gospel is preached is NONE can come to Christ unless the Father has enabled him, and John 12:39-40 and Romans 11:8, both of which say some could NOT believe BECAUSE God has BLINDED them. And anyways John 12:32 says all men, NOT all. If one uses all men to mean all then Romans 9:18 and 11:32 would contradict. The context is of Jesus being promompted to speak by gentiles who requested to see Him. Jesus was showing that He would no longer be savior for just the Jews only but now also for the gentiles(John 12:20-32; 4:22,42). Note how Paul later defined all men, as when he said he is all things to all men, Jews, gentiles, and so on, in showing all men refers to all types of people, or as in everyone without distinction NOT exception. So, given Sproul's book with a strong case, Geisler's contrived Chosen but Free, and other weak arguments and strawman against calvinism, I remain a firm calvinist in my views.

Sproul somewhat reminds me of C.S. Lewis and Chesterton. Their style of writing is very similar, full of dry and witty humor. He is blunt, almost arrogant at times, and fun to read. Theological issues may not be the most entertaining to read, but because of his style of writing, he is able to portray the controversial issues to laypeople.
This was my first book by Sproul and have become a fan of his since. True, he might not be as thorough as some theologians would want it, but for a layperson, it's a fantastic resource.

Before I read Chosen by God, I didn't know much about Calvinism or the Calvinist view of predestination. I had read one other book by a strict Calvinist that I thought was mean-spirited in its criticism of anyone who didn't accept the author's point of view. I had also heard brief discussions of the doctrine in various Bible studies I attended. After reading Sproul's book however, I have a much better understanding of Calvinism in general and predestination in particular. Sproul is quite convinced of his position but doesn't belittle those with whom he disagrees. He knows the arguments of both sides and clearly explains why he thinks his views are the best explanations of the subject based on Scripture. He addresses many of the common issues associated with predestination including the nature of man's free will, the nature of the atonement and God's infinite sense of mercy and justice. This book is highly recommended for anyone who wants to tackle this controversial issue.

As a 34-year-old Southern Baptist pastor, I found this book to be insiteful and useful in the study of a difficult topic. I have personally struggled with this subject since I was a teenager. I have wrestled with many books on the topic. I would suggest something to anyone who reads this book (including those who have written scathing reviews): Remember that this is just a book written by a man seeking and searching to know the truth of the God's Word. I believe Dr. Sproul has presented a great launching point for anyone who wishes to delve deeper into the heart and mind of God. This book is not a final resting place for the arguements of Calvin's interpretation of predestination. The final resting place is in the Word of God itself, not in the hearts and minds of man.

Dr. Sproul presents a basic argument for the Reformed view of salvation. I would recommend this book to any Christian who has a desire to understand salvation to its fullest. Not that all the answers are here, but again, Dr. Sproul points to the Scriptures and offers a springboard from which a continued lifelong study can begin.

For the budding theologian, Chosen By God is the best introduction to Reformed Theology that a person can purchase. If you are already knowledgable in this field of theology you probably won't want it because the arguments don't go into much depth philosophically or exegetically. The tone of the book is irenic and the polemics that normally temper the Reformed apologetic are thankfully absent.
That said I feel that the beginning theologian should be warned about a few things:
1) Like most Reformed books on predestination, Dr. Sproul heavily promotes Romans 9:1-23 but cuts off St. Paul before he can develop his point completely in chapters 10 and 11. The three chapters form an entire discourse on the status of the Jews and the righteousness of God and shouldn't be understood in a disjointed fashion. The reason the Calvinist has to avoid Romans 11 is simple: if the Jews can be cut off and the Genitles ingrafted in and vice versa, the notion of absolute predestination (especially Perseverence of the Saints) can't stand and makes St. Paul contradict himself.
2) The subtle implication that Catholics are Semi-Pelagian is infuriating to anyone remotely familiar with the historical issue. While reading I kept thinking: "Hey, we condemned Semi-Pelagianism and Pelagianism before Sola Fide was ever invented."
3) On his section on the assurance of salvation. He comes close to addressing one of the greatest problems with Eternal Security: "the people who are not saved, but "know" that they are saved." In other words, how can people who exhibit every aspect of Christian living fall away? The thorn in the side of the Reformed apologetic is that if Perseverence of the saints is true, then no Christian can really know if he or she is saved or not. This is because the superficial (or some people say "professing, but not possessing Christian") has every earmark of real Christianity, for instance, these people were:
They are said to have believed (Luke 8:13); been a branch attached to the vine (John 15:2); received the gospel and stood firm in it (1 Cor. 15:1); been reconciled through Christ's body (Col. 1:22); been enlightened; tasted of the heavenly gift; been made partakers of the Holy Spirit (Heb. 6:5); been sanctified by the blood of the covenant (Heb. 10:29); been bought by Jesus (2 Pet. 2:1); and escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2 Pet. 2:20). Yet these people did not persevere.
Calvinists say that the people described in these verses were therefore obviously never true Christians. The problem becomes acute when the Christian compares himself to these people mentioned in Scripture. If the superficial ones can be all of the things listed above and still fall away, what assurance do they have? Unfortunately, Dr. Sproul skirts around the issue by making a distinction between true and false assurance.
But I digress, since this is just an introduction, I didn't expect Dr. Sproul to address these issues . However, if you are looking for a great introduction to Reformed theology, you can't do any better than this one

This is a good book. Sproul's thesis is that God chose individuals to be saved before the beginning of time, and that he chose to pass the others by. He stops short of saying that God predestined them to go to hell, but by saying that God chose to pass them by, it doesn't leave the poor blokes who were passed by a whole lot of alternative.
And there are scripture passages which teach almost the opposite of what Sproul is saying. I'm thinking of 2 Peter 3:9 which says that that Lord doesn't want anyone to perish, but that all should come to repentance. And 1 Timothy 2:4 says that "God wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." These scriptures in my understanding present a far more compassionate picture of the Christian God than what Sproul has presented.
But differences of opinion aside, Sproul has done a fine job of presenting a traditional Calvinist position on the doctrines of election and reprobation.

Sprout builds a clear, concise and convincing case for Calvinism. He evidently made concerted efforts to avoid overly technical jargon without dumbing down his message. Hence, a relatively easy read especially for non-academics and the non-academically inclined who nonetheless desire to delve deeper into Christian truth. I enjoyed reading this book. Helped me think better about my faith.

In this book, Sproul gives an excellent overview of Calvinism and basic Reformed theology. He carefully and systematically articulates the five Doctrines of Grace with Scripture, and at the same time, clears up any misconception of Calvinism the reader might have. I love how he doesn't just give the Calvinistic view, but also touches on Arminian views, thoughts and objections as well. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about the Doctrines of Grace and Reformed theology because Sproul gives a great, articulated overview of it in this book. I feel this book is also edifying to the believers who subscribe to Calvinism because, as a subscriber to Calvinism myself, it helped further clarify and solidify my own theology.

Calvinism has been given a bad name because of its claim on how God's sovereign grace works. Sproul shows how scripture actually supports some of these controversial doctrines. Like it or not. God does know His sheep and He does choose who He wants to go to heaven. Also, God is sovereign over the ends and means of creation. Otherwise, He wouldn't be God! I think you'll be more comfortable with a God who sustains the world than a God who lets the world run out of control.

This a wonderful book for scholars and laypersons alike. Everyone has something to pull from this detailed description of what predestination really needs. We have to ask the tough someone skeptical someone what heretical questions before we can trully grow in our faith. Is God completely sovereign? If man has a choice in his salvation, then God isn't sovereign over the issue and therefore isn't all sovereign. However, God is all sovereign and man must see his state of spiritual death and the new life waiting in God's grace. RC Sproul does an excellent job of showing specific scripture references. The only thing I would change is that he tells more exactly where to find these verses. Sproul does give enough information to know exactly which verse he is talking about if you have a concordance. However this isn't something to not buy the book over. Great reading. Buy it today.

This is very good introduction to the doctrine of predestination. All of the major points are covered. There is excellent discussion of the relevant texts. Since the book is more of a primer, those seeking a deeper look into Calvinism would enjoy a more thorough book. This book is great for those open to the idea of Calvinism and those who desire an introduction. It probably will not convince the die-hard Arminian. If you want a more detailed discussion and a longer read, Boettner's Reformed Doctrine of Predestination is one of the most thorough treatments on the subject.

As an Arminian, I'm going to be a polite dissenter amid these many adoring reviews. "Chosen by God" is well written and argued but it has multiple flaws to the point that it is ultimately unconvincing.

There is a hint in the beginning of more problems to come. Sproul gives a list of contemporary theologians, in categories marked "Reformed" and "Opposing." He is in error with one and possibly two people he names. He lists Francis Schaeffer on the Reformed side. I have seen nothing in any of Schaeffer's writings to support this. He has a book on basic Bible studies with no material on TULIP theology. And one of his works is titled "Everybody Can Know." The title, he explains, means everybody can know God--hardly something a Calvinist would say. [Much later note: I have since been challenged on this point of Schaeffer's theology. Apparently Schaeffer taught at a Reformed Seminary. But the point I have made about his books is significant. I suspect he was a nominal Calvinist at most.]

Sproul lists Norman Geisler in the "opposing" list. Does "opposing" mean Arminian? The term is ambiguous. But Geisler makes clear in his recent book on election that he is a four-point Calvinist.

In Chapter 3, Sproul really blows it with his examination of the Greek word "helko" in John 6:44. The word there is translated "draws" but Sproul cites "Kittle's Theological Dictionary of the New Testament" as saying the word actually means "compel" and implies that a person has to be compelled into God's kingdom. But he took that out of context from Kittel. "Compel" or "drag" is a common translation for "helko" but John 6:44 (and 12:32) is an exception.

Kittel says for that verse, "There is no thought here of force or magic. The term figuratively expresses the supernatural power of the love of God which goes out to all (12:32) but without which no one can come."

Another source, the Renaissance New Testament lexicon says, "It does not necessarily involve coersion though it does involve persuasion and motivation."

Later, Sproul emphasizes the unbiblical position of regeneration precedes faith. He says, "We do not believe in order to be born again. We are born again in order that we may believe." I wonder what he does with Acts 16:31--"Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. or Luke 7:50 or Romans 10: 9-13. Scripture is clear that if you repent and believe in faith,then you are saved (which includes regeneration).

I would also strongly disagree with Sproul's discussion of Romans 9. He cites verse 13 and implies this is about election to salvation, but it is not. This verse is about Jacob and Esau representing nations, i.e. the Israelites and the Edomites, and the election is to extraordinary blessing and service to continue the Old Covenant lineage ultimately resulting in the "Seed"--the Messiah and those in Him. It certainly doesn't mean the Edomites could not be saved. (Sproul acknowledges the "nations" arguement but his answer is unconvincing.)

Sproul also cites Romans 9:16 and says, "This one verse is absolutely fatal to Arminianism." Not at all! First, there is some ambiguity about what "it" represents in the verse. If we assume it means salvation, then this verse is about the ultimate originating source of salvation.Where does salvation ultimately come from? God, of course. We don't will our salvation, but this does not mean the will plays no role at all.

Near the end of the book, Sproul quotes John 17:9--"I do not pray for the world, but for those you have given me." He then says, "Did Christ die for those whom he would not pray?" My answer: Yes. In general, Christ was not praying for the world in John 17, but even then he made a parenthetical prayer--see verse 21. And remember John 6:51--"This bread is my flesh that I will give for the life of the world." (Only Calvinists come up with the bizarre exegesis that "world" in these verse means the elect within the world.)

Sproul also says the atonement from the Arminian point of view (and the four-point Calvinist point of view, I might add) is just a "potential" atonement. But he is wrong. The atonement is real in terms of its completion and its availability. Christ's work is finished FOR man but not automatically IN man. People have to individually appropriate it through repenting and believing in faith. Sproul's version of the atonement makes faith and believing largely meaningless, in my opinion.

In closing, if anyone is open to reading books from the opposing point of view, I recommend "Elect in the Son" by Robert Shank and "God's Strategy in Human History" by Paul Marston and Roger Forster.

At first, I wanted nothing to do with this subject. In fact, I thought it was quite silly to debate it. Although, I don't engage often in discussions regarding God's election, I wanted to know what Scripture said...regardless of my own opinion and what I think "sounds fair".
It's convincing...backed up scripturally...not far you can run if you really want to think through these issues.
I'm in the process of rereading this work. Sproul is brilliant and clear in His explanation of scripture.

I have never been so encouraged in my faith as I was after reading this book. So many awesome points were made that it left me speechless! I was so happy to finally found an evangelical teacher who agrees with the doctrine that seems to spring forth from the New Testament. This book will uplift and encourage anyone who is unsure whether they are 'saved' or not.

I will only post a brief thought on this book. This book was very helpful for myself in getting me to think about the difference between Calvinism and Arminianism. This was actually the first book on this topic I have read (about two years ago). I would suggest this book as a primer to anyone that is considering the seemingly small but actually vast differences of these two approaches to understanding justification. I hope this will be a good resource to stimulate thought.

What is so abominable about the Arminian-style free-will (to be distinguished from `freedom of the will' as in Jonathan Edwards' treatise') doctrine(s), a.k.a., the doctrine of autonomous self, is that it is blasphemously man-centered, which though Prof. Sproul skillfully refutes, but fails to expose the self-idolatrous spirit behind it. Arminians want a god they can manipulate to serve them as their lackey. This is why they accuse the biblical doctrine of the sovereignty of God as equivalent to treating them as puppets, because they want God to be their powerful puppet to make much of them. Prof. Sproul skillfully, soberly, but also humorously expounds, defends and answers some, if not most objections in regard to the biblical doctrine of the absolute sovereignty of God beginning with an excellent treatment on the Fall and the original sin to divine election and purpose behind everything God does, that is, to the praise of glorious grace in Christ, not to make much of men. On the other hand, I wish there were more coverage on human responsibility, despite God's sovereignty, both taught by the Bible. Nevertheless, Prof. Sproul has done an excellent job, though I would not call comprehensive, in defending the truth, desperately needed in our days of prevailing human autonomy, often hidden in the phrase `the right to choose', but manifested in many ugliness and acts of barbarity, as in abortion and same-sex marriage, whose proponents hail as `the right to choose'. Their insistence on their right to choose in their fallenness results in nothing but evil and sin, which is why the doctrine of total depravity (covered in this book), justification by faith, and freedom of the will (barely covered in this book) are so precious and grand.

R.C. Sproul has amazing ability to explain difficult theological subjects to the lay people. People are by nature Arminian, it takes time and efforts to understand a Biblical doctrine of election. "Chosen by God" is a great help in dispelling Arminian fog and returning all the glory to whom it belongs, namely to God.

Before reading this book, I was a convinced Arminian and did not know it. My pastors taught me that anyone could come to Jesus if they only believed, and I still believed this. The fact that many who hear the gospel and do not come to Jesus never bothered me because I was not taught what the sovereignty of God really means. A friend challenged me one day, and I bought this book while looking for Luther's Bondage of the Will.
Sproul's logic is amazing. He clearly explains the hard concepts of God's sovereignty, and man's free will. I found no way to get around the biblical teaching that God has elected those to be saved in eternity.
Thanks to Dr. Sproul for making me a Reformed Christian.

Every believer has had to wrestle with the doctrine of election, if he or she is a student of the Bible. The topic is challenging for both student and teacher. Dr. Sproul carefully and thoughtfully explained the doctrine of election in a way that I could understand and accept. I highly recommend this book.

This book communicates very effectively and is not difficult to read. It is very convincing with regard to the arguments for a proper doctrine of predestination. My only complaint is that there are some tough questions which it does not address as effectively as John Piper's "The Pleasures of God". I recommend both books, but Chosen by God may be better for beginners in this field of study.

A great book by a great author on one of the great doctrines of the Bible - and also, alas, one of the most misunderstood. But I would be amazed if anyone could keep to an unbiblical position after reading Sproul on this vital subject. Christopher Catherwood, grandson of Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones and author of CHRISTIANS MUSLIMS AND ISLAMIC RAGE (Zondervan, 2003)

A great book by a great author on one of the great doctrines of the Bible - and also, alas, one of the most misunderstood. But I would be amazed if anyone could keep to an unbiblical position after reading Sproul on this vital subject. Christopher Catherwood, grandson of Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones and author of CHRISTIANS MUSLIMS AND ISLAMIC RAGE (Zondervan, 2003)

This is THE book on election that every Christian should read. I can't recommend this book any more highly. It will radically change your thinking regarding the doctrines of predestination and election. The freedom that comes from understanding this book is awesome.

I'd say my title pretty much sums it up. This is one of the simplest treatments of the doctrine of election for almost anyone to grasp. Dr. Sproul is magnificently insightful and methodical in the presentation of this glorious doctrine of Election.

RC Sproul, and therefore this book is very much espousing the Calvinist message that man is simply a robot doing what God has decided He wants him to do. This is especially evident in Chapter 3 where he comes to the conclusion that you are "Chosen by God" and not the other way around. Therefore for some "mystery" God does not choose all people. Aren't we glad that we are chosen (Sproul's conclusion, not mine). This kind of logic has definitely driven me into the Arminian camp.

In chapter 6 he basically says there is no such thing as foreknowledge so get over it! God is God and does whatever he decides he wants to do. So, you have no choice in the matter. If indeed Sproul is right then the Great Commission is indeed a hoax as it has already been decided so anything you do is null and void before you do it.

When I first read this book I was very much depressed because I thought this was THE Christian view. I later found Jacob Arminius and learned that others do not agree with him on this topic. What a relief it was to know that I was not the only one troubled by God's power trip rather then His love. God is not damning you to hell and then saying "but I love you". That logic is totally foreign to me.

While Mr Sproul is a very knowledgeable theologian and much of what he says is very insightful but you need to constantly remind yourself that he is a Calvinist who believes few are "chosen" the rest are doomed with absolutely no say in the matter.

A good book detailing this subject is "Why I am not a Calvinist" by Jerry Walls and Joseph Dongell. Read this book and you will learn that despite what Mr Sproul says God DOES love you and wants ALL of us to be saved.

I've read many of Sproul's books, and have recommended many to countless friends. This book, by far, has had the most impact on my life and my friends. It is an excellent, readable book on the very touchy subject of predestination. In Chosen By God, Sproul gives a thorough and convincing argument that the historical Reformed view of predestination is what the Bible teaches and that it is the only way of salvation. Sproul makes this deep theological issue understandable and accessible to everyone. One cannot read this book without being changed. If you only read one theology book this year -- this is it

Though I have the utmost respect for Dr. Sproul, the scriptures simply and clearly stand in opposition to the full 5-Point Calvanistic view. Let's take 3 of the 5 points of Calvinism for the sake of brevity.
1. The doctrine of Unconditional Election portrays God as unrighteous. The greatest virtue instituted in this universe by God is love, and this virtue encompasses freedom. This doctrine disengages man's responsibility and freedom of choice and portrays God as someone who creates solely for the purposes of damnation by excluding most of His creation from His love. He only elects and calls the "chosen few". If God had chosen those whom He was pleased to bring to the knowledge of Himself then He would also be pleased to bring others to an ignorance of Himself and ultimately to eternal torment. However, this is totally inconsistent with His loving and redemptive nature as portrayed in His word.
Rather than portraying God as dreadful, unrighteous and uninviting, the bible demonstrates that God desires all men to be saved. Therefore, though it is up to the individual to choose his fate, it is God's desire that every sinner repents and freely accepts Him. Rather than a specific call and selection of the "chosen few", His plan of salvation is an "all-inclusive" call to the world.
God's call to the world
John 3:16-17
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved".
John 1:29:
"Behold the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world".
2. To claim that Christ only atoned for the sins of the "elect" (Limited Atonement) stands in direct conflict with His loving nature as stated previously. For example, John 3:17 states that, "God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved". Let's look at the definition of the word propitiation to understand the meaning of atonement and whether it is limited in its scope or is rather God's call to His entire creation:

Definition of Propitiation
·To overcome the distrust or animosity of; appease.
·To regain or try to regain (friendship or goodwill) by pleasant behavior.
·To make or attempt to make compatible; reconcile.
1 John 2:2 "And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world".
2 Peter 3:9 "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance".
John 1:29: John the Baptist declared, "Behold the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world".
Therefore, his atonement is not limited to a select few, but rather, available to the whole world as a free gift. Lastly, from a positional standpoint, Christ's sacrifice atoned for the sins of the world, but from a practical standpoint, only those who accept Christ willingly and freely are reconciled to God. For example, from a positional standpoint, all those who have a headache can take an Advil to feel better. From a practical standpoint, only those who willingly take an Advil will feel better.
3. If God's grace was irresistible, then who could resist it? If this doctrine were true, then the reverse would also be true. That is, damnation for the non-elect would also be a display of God's irresistible force. God is not a cosmic rapist! Neither is He partial.
The doctrine of Irresistible Grace portrays God as a puppeteer and his puppets move and act based solely upon the puppeteer's own will. When God calls a seeking sinner to repentance, it is the willingness of the sinner to acknowledge his sins and repent. No one forced or strongly pursuaded me to be saved, including God. It was my decision and that's what makes His righteous plan of salvation for all so perfect.
Why did Israel reject Christ if God's grace was so irresistible? While Jesus was standing at the Mount of Olives, He said, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that kills the prophets, and stone them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathered her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!"(Mathew 23:37)
Did Israel reject God's grace? The answer is YES. Therefore, His grace is resistible, as is prevalent in the above passage of scripture, where Christ poured out His grace and love upon a nation who were not willing to be gathered to Him. As a result, God gave them up because He always honors the will.

Love RC's works; he does a great job of taking difficult subjects and making them accessible without dumbing them down. Every believer should have his works on their discipleship reading list. This volume is no exception.

This should be required reading for all who proclaim to be Christians. Dr. Sproul unravels the TRUE gospel. The bible repeats the doctrine of election over and over again. Why pastors and teachers will not teach this doctrine is beyond me! This great doctrine was standard teaching in most seminaries years ago. This book teaches what the scripture says on this controversial subject, not man's opinion. This is meat, not milk. Bravo to R.C. Sproul and his work.

Despite Dr. Sproul's rather conclusory language, "Chosen By God" is not the final word on the free will debate. Before reaching any conclusions on this issue, I urge readers to consult Dr. Norman Geisler's "Chosen But Free" and Dr. Robert Shank's "Elect in the Son." Dr. Spoul's book was the first that I read when I became troubled with the issue of predestination. However, I feel that his treatment was inadequate and at times even disingenuous. My main concern with "Chosen By God" is Dr. Sproul tendency to seize upon certain verses that could be interpreted to support his view and proceed to use those few verses to interpret other verses that suggest a contrary conclusion. In my opinion, there are numerous verses throughout the Old and New Testaments that rather explicitly pronounce that God has given man the responsibility to choose to accept His saving grace. Dr. Sproul often dismisses these verses with a wave of the hand or ignores them outright. I think Drs. Geisler and Shank treat the issue of divine sovereignty and human freedom with more credibility than Dr. Sproul has in "Chosen By God."

In some ways, Dr. Sproul reminds me of Bill Clinton...he has such good communication skills and such a remarkable ability to relate to the reader that you WANT to believe him, even though you know he's not right in his conclusions.
This book is well organized and very readable, and, I might add, convincing at first. But, on further analysis, it becomes clear that Dr. Sproul builds his entire argument on the basis of a very small sample of Scripture.
For example, one entire chapter stems from a quite literal interpretation of the word "dead" in Ephesians 2:1; another chapter is little more than a lengthy opinion piece on Romans 8:28-30. Ultimately, it seems as if Dr. Sproul ignores most of the Bible in order to build a case on only those isolated verses that seem to support his position. He has raised the art of "proof-texting" to new heights with this tome.
I think Dr. Sproul's biggest mistake in this book is to write as if his is the final word in the predestination debate. I don't begrudge him the right to present his views with an air of authority, but to claim that "this one verse is absolutely fatal to Arminianism" and "this should seal the matter forever" seems a bit too strong. Granted, Dr. Sproul admits early in the book that he may be wrong, but statements like those above make him a prime target for refutation (see Dr. Norman L. Geisler's "Chosen, But Free"). Perhaps Dr. Sproul would have been better served if he hadn't written with such a boastful tone.
Long story short, I would recommend that you read this book, but I would not recommend that you believe everything you read in it.

There are numerous exegetical, theological, and philosophical problems with this book. I will examine only one error. John Wagner has noted it in his review, but I would like to enlarge on it. It deals with the lexical meaning of the word "draw" (helkou) found in John 6:44 and 12:32. Evangelical Arminians, in the same vein as Arminius and Wesley, would wholeheartedly agree with Sproul when he states that John 6:44 "teaches at least this much: It is not within fallen man's natural ability to come to Christ on his own, without some kind of divine assistance" (p.68). The disagreement would be over the meaning of draw and whether this divine assistance is irresistable or resistable and whether this assistance is given to only some people or to all people. There is a huge difference between being irresisibly compelled to come to Christ in faith and being graciously enabled to come to Christ in faith. Which position that Sproul takes is obvious..."Kittel's Theological Dictionary of the New Testament defines it [draw] to mean 'to compel'" (p. 69). He goes on to argue for this meaning by appealing to two additional texts--James 2:6 and Acts 16:19. He points out that both of these texts translate the same Greek word helkou as "drag" and therefore John 6:44 cannot mean woo or attract as some Arminians argue (p.70). There are a couple of problems with Sproul's reasoning here. First, his procedure of looking at helkuo is an example of a word study fallacy know as "word-loading." This occurs when a person takes a meaning of a word in one context and then seeks to apply that same meaning into a different context. Sproul does this when he appeals to the use of helkou in James and Acts as justification for understanding draw to mean "drag" in John 6:44. Secondly, Sproul cites only one reference work for support of his definition. After investigating "Big" Kittel for myself, I was shocked to find that it did not agree with his conclusions. A. Oepke comments that in John's usage of helkou "force or magic may be discounted, but not the supernatural element" (2:503). Yet for Sproul's definition to hold up, Oepke should have said that John's usage of helkou clearly means "to compel" or force. When I turned to "Little" Kittel (the one vol. abridged edition of his 10 vol. work) I was shocked even further to see that it did not agree with Sproul's definition. Here is the complete entry for helkou as translated and abridged by Geoffrey Bromiley:
The basic meaning is "to draw," "tug," or, in the case of persons, "compel." It may be used for "to draw" to a place by magic, for demons being "drawn" to animal life, or for the inner influencing of the will (Plato). The Semitic world has the concept of an irresistible drawing to God (cf. 1 Sam. 10:5; 19:19ff; Jer. 29:26; Hos. 9:7). In the OT helkein denotes a powerful impulse, as in Cant. 1:4, which is obscure but expresses the force of love. This is the point in the two important passages in Jn. 6:44; 12:32. There is no thought here of force or magic. The term figuratively expresses the supernatural power of the love of God or Christ which goes out to all (12:32) but without which no one can come (6:44). The apparent contradiction shows that both the election and the universality of grace must be taken seriously; the compulsion is not automatic. (p.227)
What? The compulsion is not automatic? But Sproul argues that it is an irresistible compulsion. Yes, helkou can literally mean drag or compel in certain contexts (John 18:10;21:6,11;Acts 16:19;21:30;James 2:6), but it is not the lexical meaning for the context of John 6:44 or 12:32. While Sproul confidently asserts that "linguistically and lexicographically, the word means to compel," the lexical evidence is not in his favor. Here is a sampling of the evidence: Walter Bauer in his Greek-English Lexicon notes that helkou is used figuratively "of the pull on man's inner life....draw, attract J 6:44" (p.251). The Analytical Lexicon to the Greek NT states that helkuo is used metaphorically "to draw mentally and morally, John 6:44; 12:32" (Mounce, p.180). The Greek-English Lexicon to the NT has, "met., to draw, i.e. to attract, Joh. xii. 32. Cf. Joh. vi. 44" (Hickie, p.13). The Analytical Lexicon of the Greek NT by Friberg and Miller says, "figuratively, of a strong pull in the mental or moral life draw, attract (JN 6.44)" (p.144). The Greek and English Lexicon to the NT defines helkou to mean: "to draw, by a moral influence, John 6,44. 12,32" (Robinson, p.240). Calvinist Spiros Zodhiates writes in his Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible: "Helkuo is used of Jesus on the cross drawing by His love, not force (John 6:44; 12:32)" (p.1831). I could cite at least 8 more references that would agree with those above. From my research, I have not found a single reference work which defines helkou as drag or compel for John 6:44. Clearly, Sproul has not done his homework. Without warrent or justification, he has appealed to a single reference source that does not even support his Calvinist conclusions. He has, knowingly or unknowingly, ignored the overwhelming lexical evidence that militates against his reformed theology. To further compound his error, he has committed a basic word study fallacy in attempts to bolster his dogmatic assertions. It is indeed surprising to see a theologian of his caliber committing such obvious errors in his research and work. Sproul perpetuates his errors on "draw" in his other books and other Calvinists follow in his footsteps. Sproul and other Calvinists should abandon their use of John 6:44 to support their doctrine of irresistible grace since the lexical evidence is decidedly not in their favor.

R.C. Sproul has the guts to touch a subject highly untouch by the Church. He expands St. Augustine's doctrine of Predestination and clarifies modern missconceptions about salvation. This book is a must for the sincere believer regardless of theological backgrounds.

What an amazing book!! This book totally proves predestination point by point. I was a Calvinist prior reading this book and am more solid now. Sproul refutes the idea of man choosing God through a logical, step by step process. I am thankful that God has such grace for people like me. Glory to God.

I had been studying election in the Bible for several weeks before I read this book. It answered many questions that I had regarding election. It helped me understand the "all" passages as well as the effects of the Fall.

As a Roman Catholic, a number of Calvinist acquaintances recommended this book as irrefutable to bring me over. I read the reviews here, and expected to see some powerful arguments. What a disappointment! He starts with some philosophical fancy footwork before finally delving into the bible. Then he starts with John, "No one can come to me unless the Father draw him", as proof text #1. But this is part one of the great trilogy in John: part 2, "I and the Father are one", part 3: "And I, when I am lifted up, will draw all men to myself". If part one is universal, necessarily so is part three. The passages teach the universal salvific will, not double predestination. Then he turns to John 3, the born again discourse. Even though the context fairly screams baptism, he ignores this (like most Protestants) and argues that being born again must precede faith. Obviously, if "born again" refers to baptismal regeneration (as the context suggests), that is ludicrous. Sproul seems to ignore the biblical teaching that faith is not a yes or no matter, but one of degrees, and dynamic to boot - it grows or dies over time.
The proof texts go from bad to worse, culminating in the "killer text", Romans 9. Unfortunately, as the context makes clear, Paul isn't even talking about salvation in the passage. He's talking about our position in this world, not the next. Israel was chosen - but surely even Sproul will agree that not every Israelite was saved? To update the rhetorical question Paul is asking, why was I born in the US to a Christian family, while someone else was born in India to a Hindu family? Paul answers, because so God decided. But does that mean that I will certainly be saved, or that the Indian will be certainly lost? Obvously, no. Sproul's key passage is irrelevant to his argument.
Surely, there must be better arguments for Calvinism than this book. I highly recommend for a Catholic view of the question Fr. William Most's book "Grace, Predestination, and the Salvific Will of God." I especially recommend it to those who found this weak book so convincing.

Calvinist... Reformed... Arminian... Predestination... !

I can almost hear the Apostles saying, "I thank God I baptized none of you."

The reason why such debates run rampant is because people will ever insist upon haggling words over works. Since the only BIBLICAL guarantee we have is that we can know each other by what we DO, no matter how interesting they are (like this one) writing books is of questionable value.

Have any of you guys ever done the mighty miracles Jesus said we would do? If not, how can we argue so much about things we obviously do not have enough FAITH to understand... let alone collect royalties on?

Oh well - Feel free to keep scratchin' each other's ears ye Romans - the rest of us are out and about our Father's business...!

Don't waste your money on this book. I have a lot of respect for Dr. Sprout but this is not his best work. It is an example of what an accademien can do by selecting a few verses and making something out of it that supports his point of view (which conflicts with the overarching teachings of Jesus).

I eagerly read this book as part of a study on predestination due to the promotion of it as a "simple, clear" exposition of a complex subject. My experience was not so glowing. I could not even understand what Sproul believes on the subject! It vascillates between the presentation of various viewpoints to the extent that I could not follow the path back to "home base." Clear as mud to me.

Discouraged as I read these other reviews, I can only conclude that I need to read it again.

I am a big fan of R.C. Sproul, listen to his radio show every day, and have several of his books. When I turned to this offering from Bro. Sproul on the sticky problems of predestination and election, I was stunned - there's a lot of eloquent language here, but no explanations.

If you're a Calvinist, this book just covers the basics of Calvinist doctrine and cites the verses to back it up. If you're not a Calvinist, there's nothing here for you. The verses which contradict Calvinism are not addressed and not mentioned. The book goes in circles for many pages and finally ends up not giving you any satisfactory answers on the subject. I know Bro. Sproul is capable of much deeper explanation than this, perhaps he just wanted to keep it simple, but in doing so, he failed to really address the question - are we chosen by God or do we choose God? Despite the title, the answer to that question isn't in Bro. Sproul's book.

The one thing I do appreciate about this book is that it is consistent with what the New Testament teaches about salvation. At least this guy has the guts to stick to his guns having embraced biblical inerrancy. It is also not surprizing that this idea would be glorified. If faith is embraced as a valid epistimological procedure- anything goes. Practically speaking, Sproul, and the NT bring to the world a message that is one level lower than nihilism. The amazing thing is that good men and women have bought into this idea, hook, line and sinker. I read this book because this is the kind of thing my neices are being taught. This breaks my heart.