The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum More then just the 5 points?

I've read more the once that it is unfortunate that Calvinism is often represented as being just the 5 points, and nothing more. It's said that because the 5 points were simply the main points of divergence with the Arminiam Remonstrants, taken by themselves they're not really a holistic picture of Calvinsism.

So, if you were presenting Calvinism to someone for the first time, be it in personal conversation, or a formal setting,

1) Are the 5 points the best place to start?

2) If so, what more should you include, past the 5 points, to "fill in the blanks"?

3) If not, where should you begin? What content would you find important?

Thanks in advance for your input.

Well, speaking of Latin phrases going here...

Seems to me the 5 Solas would be an important thing to explain.

Also, the sovereignty of God in all things.

I would encourage you to pick up a book called "Truth in All Its Glory: Commending the Reformed Faith by William Edgar. I am about half way through the book and am enjoying the sweetness in which the reformed faith is treated historically and contemporaneously. I do think that it might encourage you to present the reformed faith as being the biblical faith for that is truly what it is. TULIPs may indeed be as you noted, certain particular distinctives that were designed to counter heresies that threatened the church.

I found my copy at the http://www.wtsbooks.com/ for they do have good prices. It is also available at Puritan & Reformed who published the work: http://www.prpbooks.com/inventory.html?t...59312812110dc78

Publisher's comments:
• A winsome introduction to Reformed theology • Commends the richness and beauty of a Reformed worldview yet is not uncritical of abuses associated with it • Traces origins and implications for the church and its calling in the world • Shows sensitivity to issues and challenges before the Church

This guided tour of the Reformed faith highlights the glory of God’s truth and grace. William Edgar takes us first to the historical roots of the Reformed tradition and then leads us through its major doctrines, including God, the trinity, revelation, creation, the fall, redemption, and the church. He gives special attention to the doctrines of salvation and makes suggestions for further understanding and application of a Reformed worldview to our age. An introduction to Reformed theology, Truth in All Its Glory can be used formally, for example, in a study group or membership class, or less formally, by friends who hope to introduce friends to the Reformed faith.

William Edgar (D.Th., University of Geneva) is professor of apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary. His published works include The Face of Truth, Reasons of the Heart, and articles on cultural apologetics, the music of Brahms, and African-American life.
Pages: 296
ISBN: 0-87552-794-9
Publication Date: 10/15/2004

Henry,

Try these two sources:

1) The Fundamental Principle of Calvinism, by Dr. H. Henry Meeter.

2) This book, Are Five Points Enough?: The Ten Points of Calvinism, by Dr. Leonard J. Coppes