Determined to Believe?

By: John C. Lennox

Narrated by: Paul Gregory

Length: 13 hrs and 20 mins

Publisher's Summary

A serious biblical and philosophical investigation of theological determinism: the idea that everything that happens has already been decided by God, including who will and won’t be saved.

This audiobook is for those who are interested in, or troubled by, questions about God's sovereignty and human freedom and responsibility. Christian apologist John Lennox writes in the spirit of helping people understand the biblical treatment of these concepts. 

In this mind-bending review of the topics of theological determinism, predestination, election, and foreknowledge, Lennox:

• Defines the problem, considering the concept of freedom, the different kinds of determinism, and the moral issues these pose.
• Explores the range of theological opinion and unpacks what the Bible—especially the gospels and Paul's letter to the Romans—teaches about human and sovereign will.
• Addresses the question of Christian assurance: how can I know if I have salvation?

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

This audiobook is for anyone who's asked questions like:

• Is my decision to believe or disbelieve in Jesus actually my decision?
• Is it possible for a genuine believer to lose their salvation?
• How much free will do I really have?

By the author of Seven Days that Divide the World and 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity, Determined to Believe? will launch your consciousness into a fresh understanding and appreciation of this important Christian debate and help you think both biblically and logically about the human condition.

©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.

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.

A must read

This may be a reach but I'm placing this next to C. S Lewis's Mere Christianity.

bad theology

spends a lot of time arguing against a false definition of calvinism. saying a theological concept isnt seeker friendly is not a good argument against it. he's interpreting scripture based on his own morals, instead of getting his morals from scripture.

Changed my theological view on determinism

John Lennox has done a phenomenal job here at allowing the reader to engage with scripture as well as different theologians thoughts over determinism. It was well balanced.

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.

outstanding biblical truth

I enjoyed this discussion that was grounded in scripture and well presented. while there still are some minor points with which I disagree, the author backed up his assertions appropriately and respectfully. I highly recommend this book.

Great book, very detailed.

this has been a great book on a very important subject that has immense implications. the first half of the book he lays out the argument in an excellent, humble, yet confident manner. second half of the book was almost too detailed and the exegesis almost dragged on for too long. however, Lennox does not take the subject lightly and went the extra mile. if you enjoy theology, the second half of the book will delight you. if you want clarity on the determinism, free will and human responsibilities then the first half of the book will not just inform you but bring assurance (pun intended).

fantastic deduction and references

this book was recorded to me to address topics on theological determinism. and he did that very well. his use of scripture and his ability to extrapolate and dissect difficult passages was joyously welcomed.

if you or a friend struggle with how moral responsibility, predestination and free will should be biblically addressed, then this is definitely a book I'd recommend.

Awesome!

John Lennox has shed light on some concerns and also what as a Christian have been issues I’ve dealt with. I appreciate his work and his dedication to the issues we as Christians strive to understand and attain in our pursuit of God’s word! This work was Brilliantly put together and recommend each believer to give this a read!