Publisher's Synopsis
Timing is everything. Nothing could be truer as it relates to John Calvin and his teaching. If Calvin had lived a century earlier, his teaching would have been swallowed up in the Catholic tradition, and he would likely be a footnote in Christian history rather than a pillar. If he had come a century later, his teaching would have faced the daunting task of shaping a movement that was already in motion. When Calvin developed his doctrine, it was the perfect time. The Western World was ready for a new theological system as it had not been since the time of Constantine. This time, however, the system was able to ride the wings of revolution that bore the historically powerful impetus of freedom from religious tyranny. But, what if Calvin was wrong?
In this book, readers will learn the basics of the Calvinistic teaching in Eternal Security and the disparity between this teaching and the clear teaching of the Bible. For example: Ezekiel 18:24 says,
But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.
Eternal Security and Ezekiel clash at this point. What should the responsible Christian do?
What about all of the Christians who have fallen into sin and even died in a backslidden state?
What about all the parables that conflict with the teaching of Eternal Security?
The Bible lists several sins that are capable of destroying a believer's hope in Heaven. Among those are unforgiveness and hatred. Is the answer that Eternal Security provides strong enough to overrule these Scriptural teachings?
In addition, "What if Calvin Was Wrong?" exposes several myths that are often propagated by modern Calvinists. Many of these myths are faulty interpretations of Scripture. See how these myths stack up when evaluated in the light of the truth. The most dramatic of these myths is the teaching of modern Calvinists that suicide victims can go to Heaven. Is this true? Is it what the Bible says? What if Calvin was wrong?
