The Comfort of Calvinism

A Defense of the Reformed Faith

By: Doug Erlandson

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

In "The Comfort of Calvinism: A Defense of the Reformed Faith," Dr. Doug Erlandson, a retired professor of philosophy, and a pastor, presents a defense of Calvinism (many detractors refer to it as "that damnable doctrine") and shows how this understanding of Scripture has confronted him since he became a Christian more than 40 years ago." Drawing on personal experience as well as analysis of Scripture, Erlandson shows how and why the doctrines of Calvinism have been a source of comfort to him in the face of life-threatening health problems, extensive surgeries and other challenges. Three chapters cover his personal experiences, including his conversion and medical issues. In these he shows how his belief in a sovereign God buttressed his confidence that God would work all this to his good. Several chapters explain how Calvinism is thoroughly grounded in God's Word and show how its doctrines can provide comfort and the assurance of salvation for this who believe them. These chapters cover the following topics: 1. The sovereignty of God and his foreordination of all things 2. The total inability of man to come to Christ on his own 3. Unconditional election 4. Definite (limited) atonement 5. Efficacious (irresistible) grace 6. The preservation and perseverance of the saints. The book concludes with a description of the covenant of grace and the purpose of baptism as a sacrament of that covenant. "The Comfort of Calvinism" is intended for a general audience and avoids technical theological jargon as much as possible.