Determined to Believe?

By: John C. Lennox

Narrated by: Paul Gregory

Length: 13 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's Summary

Determined to Believe? is written for those who are interested in or even troubled by questions about God's sovereignty and human freedom and responsibility. John Lennox writes in the spirit of helping people to come to grips with the biblical treatment of this issue for themselves.

In this comprehensive review of the topic of theological determinism, Lennox seeks firstly to define the problem, looking at the concepts of freedom, the different kinds of determinism, and the moral problems these pose. He then equips the listener with biblical teaching on the topic and explores the spectrum of theological opinion on it. Following this, Lennox delves deeper into the Gospels and then investigates what we can learn regarding determinism and responsibility from Paul's discussion in Romans on God's dealings with Israel. Finally Lennox tackles the issue of Christian assurance.

This nuanced and detailed study challenges some of the widely held assumptions in the area of theological determinism and brings a fresh perspective to the debate.

©2018 John C. Lennox (P)2018 Zondervan

balanced, scriptural and gracious

It seems rare to find a treatment of this subject that is both encouraging to the heart and satisfying to the intellect. The author approaches the subject with unique insight and scriptural exegesis and yet, with grace and humility, refrains from imbalanced, overwrought and divisive statements. Though their are quotations from and references to other teachers, scholars and theologians, the Bible itself is by far the most common reference and no reader or student need be familiar with any other source to follow along and gain valuable insight. The narrator's Irish brogue can be awkward at times for a midwesterner but generally the book is well read and easy to listen to.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Just what the dr. ordered

The discussion of determinism is by no means new to the Christian conversation. However, after reading this book by John C. Lennox, I am convinced that Dr. Lennox's thoughts are vital to this ancient discussion.

In my experience, when Christians discuss topics like this, regardless of what side they are on, one's bias shows up almost immediately. A collection of "obvious" texts "proving" their position is presented, assertions are made and the other side is left feeling quite unsatisfied.

The feeling is either that the other side has deliberately stayed away from certain parts of scripture in order to maintain their theological paradigm, or that the texts being presented in support of one's side are taken largley out of context. Which of course leaves both parties going away feeling no different than when the discussion started.

Not so with this book. I believe both sides will feel adequate attention has been made to the entire discussion, regardless of what side you fall on.

I've been following Dr. Lennox's work for sometime now and I've always been impressed by his intellectual honestly, humility and love for the Word of God. So when I saw this book it was an instant purchase for me and it did not disappoint.

In the way that is so unique to him, John goes over the history of this discussion, texts that are commonly used to support determinism, an in depth study of the gospel of John chapters 6-10, Romans 9-11 and much more.

As already mentioned, I believe both sides will feel satisfied by the end of the this book. Largely due to John's humilty and honesty with the text. You won't find shallow assertions here, nor contortion of scripture in order to make it fit a theological paradigm. Instead you will find intelligent, rational and thoughtful points being made from scripture. Which those who follow Dr.Lennox's work already know are his strengths.

God bless John for being such a wonderful ambassador of Jesus Christ to the world.

I thought the narrator was very good as well. His voice reminds you of the author a bit.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Determinism examined by an apologist

Excellent book in defense of the gospel of Christ. Takes up the passages of scripture used by theological determinists and gives clear answers showing the veracity of God and His word. Well read with a hint of an Irish accent which reminds one of the author himself.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Surprisingly Well Written by a Mathematician

I have heard Lennox debating skeptics on video. Good! But this book is much more. It is perhaps best apologetic book
I have read and now listen. That does not mean I am throwing away my John Stott, Basil Mitchel, or J. I. Packer volumes on the same subject. One does not stop eating tapioca pudding after the first taste of butterscotch.--Dana Roberts, M.A., M.T.S,

1 of 2 people found this review helpful