Predestination: A Guide for the Perplexed

Predestination is a controversial religious doctrine that has been debated since St. Augustine. Couenhoven's book explores why great theologians have defended it, arguing that it is a doctrine of hope that combines belief in predestination, freedom, and God's goodness.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The concept of predestination has been a central theme in theology and philosophy since at least the time of St. Augustine, and it remains one of the most contentious religious doctrines. While some people find great comfort in the belief that God has a plan for their eternal joy, others find it deeply troubling. The rejection of predestination is often driven by concerns about the implications of the doctrine for human free will and divine responsibility for evil.

In his book, Predestination: A Theological Exploration, Dr. Pieter Couenhoven addresses these issues by delving into two crucial questions: "What does predestination actually imply?" and "How have great theologians defended their doctrines of predestination?" To answer these questions, Couenhoven analyzes why Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, and Barth found the doctrine attractive and explores the different ways in which they combined belief in predestination, freedom, and God's goodness.

The book concludes with a constructive chapter in which Couenhoven defends predestination as a doctrine of hope. He argues that while predestination may seem paradoxical, it is ultimately a belief in God's love and mercy, which provides us with the assurance that we are not alone and that God has a plan for our lives.

Overall, Predestination: A Theological Exploration is a thought-provoking and informative book that offers a comprehensive exploration of the concept of predestination. It provides valuable insights into the historical and philosophical debates surrounding the doctrine and offers a constructive defense of it as a doctrine of hope. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, this book is worth reading for its insights and perspectives on this important topic.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 213 x 149 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567054715