Here’s a new book as a PDF that is “available [to the whole world] for a limited time as a free download“:
Paul Hartog. A Word for the World: Calvin on the Extent of the Atonement. Schaumburg, IL: Regular Baptist Press, 2009. 72 pp.
I haven’t read it yet, but I’m sure that it’s worth a careful look.
Paul Hartog is an associate professor at Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary (Ankeny, Iowa). He has earned MA and MDiv degrees in theological studies (Faith), an MA in history (Iowa State University), a ThM in Ethics (St. Andrew’s Theological College), and a PhD in New Testament and Early Christianity (Loyola University, Chicago). He has also ministered as an assistant pastor in Baptist churches in Slater, Iowa, Romeoville, Ill., and Grimes, Iowa.
Feedback welcome.
Paul is an absolutely amazing guy. He was the assistant pastor at my church growing up and one of the biggest impacts on my life when I was younger. Not only a really godly man, but brilliant as well. I was always amazed at his memory too. I had a chance to read a section of his diss last year for a project and even there he is a very engaging writer, not to mention a pretty good tennis player.
I’ve had the privilege to take classes from Dr. Paul for the past 4 years (both college and seminary) and have enjoyed each one of them immensely. I echo Daniel’s words about his character, as well. He’s always been willing to take the time to speak with me, encourage me, and counsel me in difficult decisions.
His scholarship is excellent as well. Though I have not done much reading in Calvin, I’ve appreciated his willingness to listen and to offer helpful critiques that have caused me to think and meditate and (hopefully) become more gospel-centered and God-centered. I would encourage everyone to read this book to give a helpful view (and balanced critique) of Calvin’s proposed understanding of the extent of the atonement.