Phil Johnson, Pyromaniac – executive Director of Grace To You – Calvinist – and all around nice guy, has recommended Roger Olson’s book Arminian Theology: Myths And Realities.

It may seem strange for a confirmed Calvinist to recommend a book on Arminian theology. Here is how Phil explains it,

“But I have to say that Olson’s book is the best book in defense of Arminianism I’ve ever read. Some readers might be aware that I didn’t have a very high opinion of Dave Hunt’s anti-Calvinistic screed. When I reviewed Hunt’s book in a Shepherds’ Conference seminar a few years ago, someone told me the only reason I hated the book was because I’m a Calvinist and Hunt stepped on my toes.

“And I said, “No, it’s just a really bad book, written by a guy who has no clue what he is talking about.”

“My friend challenged that: “Name one well-written book, written after 1950, either defending Arminianism or attacking Calvinism, written by someone who does know what he is talking about.”

“I admit it; I was stumped. But now Roger Olson has bailed me out. If anyone ever asks me that question again, I can point to Olson’s book. It’s a good defense of Arminianism, and although I disagree with virtually all his conclusions, he pretty much knows what he is talking about, and he explains the differences between Arminianism, Pelagianism, and semi-pelagianism pretty well.”

Phil goes on to recommend three additional Calvinist titles that that you can find HERE.

These recommendations fall within the context of a series of article that Phil wrote for Pulpit Magazine on “Why I Am a Calvinist.” I have attached the links to all of those articles below:

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Conclusion

Phil also published on his weblog a review by Gary Johnson of Olson’s book. That review was less than positive for reasons other than why he has recommended it. You can find that review HERE.