Product Description

Herein is a most discriminating study of the basic differences between historic Calvinism and Arminianism and the developments in both theological traditions that have created the mounting barriers to the understanding of each other’s position. Dr. Wynkoop deals authoritatively with the critical issues, and incisively cuts through the prevalent fuzzy theological concepts, but all with delicacy and understanding. The monumental contribution of John Wesley in defining the doctrine of sanctification is a key emphasis in the book, along with the central issue of Christian assurance. Paper.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #636225 in Books
• Published on: 1972-07-25
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 128 pages

Customer Reviews

Solid contrast between Arminian and Calvinist theology
This book offers a concise and well stated differentiation between Arminian (and Wesleyan) theological roots against Calvinist theology. The primary focus is on the historical contexts that led to the divergence of these two branches of Christian theology. As a primer, this is an excellent tool.

The Debate Continues
Those who don't like Mildred Wynkoop's "Foundations of Wesleyan-Arminian Theology" (1967 and 1972 paperback) would do well to reconsider her brief but poignant work. This small book (only 128 pages total, two of which are an extended bibliography) firmly defines the differences between contemporary Arminianism and Calvinism. It is a one of a kind teacher for the Free Will-Predestination debate.

Beginning from a theological base Wynkoop accurately presents these late 16th century doctrinal movements. She explains that neither side understood the other to be biblically based. Considering the prominent followers of the initial Jacob Arminius and John Calvin (Eipscopus and Beza) she says that those students changed the original perspectives of their teachers. Debate, often turning murderous in the late Reformation period, began which continues into the current day.

With brilliant clarity the author describes the Synod of Dort's adoption of the Calvinists' "Answer" to Armininism and its heretical declaration for the Remonstrants (Arminius' followers). This book suggests that today's Prevenient Grace-Irresistible Grace debate took root from that 1619 decision. By the end Wynkoop traces the debate's influence on John Wesley and many modern Wesleyans (Wesleyans tend to follow Wesley's Arminian lead).

This enterprising book is a must read for all who have ever considered the Arminian-Calvinist controversy. If you are a member of the debate you will be informed with Wynkoop's Wesleyan perspective. If you are new to the quarrel she will teach you. This book is a quick read and will prove to be a valueable quick reference for all Free Will-Unconditional Election debate students. It is very recommendable.

Good systematic review of Wesleyan theology
I like the overall treatment because it covers a lot of ground fairly succinctly. Not a gripping best selling novel mind you, but it does what it needs to. In some of the later chapters her organization gets a little harder to follow, but overall a good work if you are wanting to have a solid grasp of the essentials.