Proclaimer Blog
A book for your heart and your shelf
I guess our part of the evangelical world is divided in many ways, but one at least is along the fault-line of definite atonement (limited atonement to you and me, but this is an altogether better title). And here I have to lay my cards on the table. A book about definite atonement is preaching to the choir as far as I'm concerned. But, as I discovered reading Lee's little book (here), even then there is much in this glorious doctrine to stir and delight in. So, I've been looking forward to the mama of all definite atonement books for some time: From heaven he came and sought her.
There's a website and some videos for each chapter. It's too early to say whether both those who agree with the doctrine and those who don't will find it equally useful – but I'm praying that would be the case. Just for the record, I also read books I don't agree with (and sometimes change my mind). I think that's an important Christian discipline. I learnt more about paedo baptism by reading The Case for Covenantal Infant Baptism than I ever did by listening to less than irenical debates (even though that book didn't change my mind).
So, I'm hoping that this book on definite atonement will be a useful resource for those who already agree and for those who don't (as well as, of course, those who are undecided). I particularly like the look of the various approaches. The size of the book is due, in no small measure, to the attempt to tackle the subject from a number of angles – all of which interest me. But some may interest you more than others. You may have specific questions about pastoral approaches – and the way the book is organised is going to be a help.
I've got other big books on my shelf that I dip into from time to time and find enormously edifying. I think, hope and pray this is going to be another.
BTW, I particularly like Piper waxing lyrical about the book. He seems to be about to burst into tears at any moment, like a new dad!!