"Professor Shawn Wright has given us a good, reliable, readable, basic introduction to Calvinism, and some of the main questions that surround it. If you are a non-Calvinist seeking answers about Calvinism, you will find in this little book a clear and winsome presentation of the position, as well as a response to some key criticisms. If you are a Calvinist looking for a model of how to talk about these things with non-Calvinists, then you will find here a helpful and humble model for explaining the Calvinist position, and its points of disagreement with Arminianism, in a fair-minded, even-handed way. If you are seeking something that will help you to understand, summarize and explain these issues, you will find this book a welcome addition to your library. The biblical doctrines discussed in this book matter. They matter for our understanding of who God is, what he is like and what he has graciously done, and consequently for our humility, assurance, joy, worship and witness. So read and be edified, and give all the glory to God." -- Ligon Duncan, Chancellor/CEO and Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary
"Shawn Wright’s book on Calvinism is biblically rooted, theologically astute, historically informed, and pastorally shaped. Wright lucidly explains the tenets of Calvinism, answers common misconceptions about it, and refutes objections to Calvinist soteriology. Wright’s book is the first book I would give to anyone with questions about Calvinism, for a pastoral, warm-hearted love for the gospel, missions, and holiness pervades this work. I recommend this work enthusiastically." -- Thomas R. Schreiner, Professor and Associate Dean, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
"How we make the greatness of God central in our thought and in how we see ourselves and our world is at the very heart of biblically shaped faith. Over the ages, Calvinists have pondered these matters very deeply. In this book, Wright explains what Calvinism stands for. It is a book that is informed and informative. It is lucid and forthright. And even when engaging ideas in conflict with Calvinistic beliefs it is fair and even gentle. It is a very commendable study." -- David F. Wells, Distinguished Senior Research Professor, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
"One of the most striking features of the writings of the Apostle Paul is his willingness to raise the most strenuous questions against his doctrine, and then to answer those questions fully and powerfully. This follows the same pattern seen perfectly in our Lord Jesus Christ, who took on all comers and answered their deepest questions. The same spirit of courageous truth-telling fills Shawn Wright’s excellent volume, 40 Questions About Calvinism. The questions raised are comprehensive and well-organized, and each one is addressed with a wonderful balance of thoroughness and clarity. This volume will prove a helpful tool to all people seeking to understand Calvinism, and, more importantly, biblical doctrine concerning God’s sovereign actions in saving sinners." -- Andy Davis, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Durham, North Carolina
"This is a clear and thoughtful book that fairly represents and quotes from alternative viewpoints, contains much informative historical material, wisely counsels against common misunderstandings and misuses of Calvinist teaching, and ultimately presents a highly persuasive argument that what is commonly called “Calvinism” is, quite simply, the system of belief that is actually taught in the Bible from beginning to end." -- Wayne Grudem, Distinguished Research Professor of Theology & Biblical Studies,Phoenix Seminary
"For all those who want to understand what the Bible says about how we are saved, as well as the arguments surrounding that discussion, Shawn Wright has provided a valuable service. 40 Questions About Calvinism provides both a clear and persuasive case for the sovereignty of God in salvation, and a helpful resource for specific questions raised by that fundamental truth. With clarity, brevity, accuracy, and always with an eye to pastoral relevancy, Dr. Wright addresses the major topics and objections to Calvinism. But the most pleasant surprise of the book, other than its positive and irenic tone, is the final section, aimed at encouraging Calvinists to be fruitful in gospel ministry because of, not in spite of, the doctrines of grace. This is a great book to hand to a church member with questions, or a young theology student in need of orientation. And it’s a wonderful reminder to those of us long familiar with these doctrines that they are not only true, but beautiful, because they tend most to magnifying God’s glory. I highly recommend it." -- Michael Lawrence, Lead Pastor, Hinson Baptist Church, Portland, Oregon
"The resurgence of Calvinism today has necessitated a book that painstakingly answers the many honest questions that are being asked about it. Thankfully, this book answers such questions with biblical and historical fidelity. Here is a book to put into the hands of such enquirers whose understanding of Calvinism may have been formed by those who caricature it. The fact that each chapter is a question helps enquirers go straight to the issue that is dogging them. Shawn Wright’s book will also help young Calvinists to better understand and express the historic theological position they espouse—to the glory of God!" -- Conrad Mbewe, Pastor at Kabwata Baptist Church, Lusaka, Zambia
"This book is an excellent introduction to Calvinism by a seasoned scholar, Shawn Wright. Those looking for a solid overview of Calvinistic soteriology that is scholarly yet clear and accessible will find it here. Despite the obvious disagreements I as an Arminian have with Wright’s Calvinistic theology, I highly recommend this erudite and well-written volume for those who want to gain a fuller understanding of the Calvinistic system of thought." -- Matthew Pinson, President, Welch College
