It is at the Synod of Dordt (1618-1619) that the Calvinistic orthodoxy was forged on the anvil of Arminianism. The Calvinistic orthodoxy has often been described as the five points of TULIP - although the Synod of Dordt developed what has become known as the five points, the acronym TULIP was not part of the formulations at Dordt.

TULIP does not sum up Calvinism. Even if it does sum up the discussions at the Synod of Dordt - although the order here was ULTIP. Godfrey, a professor of church history at Westminster Seminary, California, in this fresh look at the Canons of Dordt, makes a pertinent point:

“Calvinism is summarized in full confessional statements such as the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Westminster Confession of Faith.”

The aim of this book is to help Christians “appreciate the important work of the Synod of Dort in the history of the church.” Godfrey focuses on the ”fundamentally religious convictions of the synod and the canons.” In this Godfrey does an excellent job. He succeeds in showing the importance of the synod and of the canons in Reformed theology. What is missing, however, is a critical engagement with the philosophical presuppositions that were inherent in the confession - South African, Christian philosopher, Bennie van der Walt, has done this, though his main work is in Afrikaans, a useful summary in English is found here . This though is undoubtedly beyond Godfrey’s remit. And Godfrey seems happy with the Reformed scholasticism that is at times evident in the confessions.

The first part of the book examines the historical and theological background to the synod and goes on to look at the character and the work of the synod.

The second part provides a new ‘Pastoral’ translation and in part 3 there is an extremely accessible and engaging exposition of the canons. This alone is worth the price of the book. There are several appendices, including a helpful brief biography of Arminius And a detailed outline of the canons.

Godfrey has succeeded in what he set out to do. Anyone who wants an introduction to the synod and its canons could do no better than start here. ( )

I think the biggest problem with critics of reformed theology and Calvinism is that they actually have no idea what reformed theology and Calvinism is. This book would be an excellent resource for someone who is new to this theology or to someone who has spent all of their time and energy speaking out against it without having studied it.

The book is not too weighty or academic, it would be suitable for the average person. Part three is an exposition on the Canons of Dort and it was easily my favorite part of the book. That's not to say other parts of the book are bad though.

There are times that it does seem like the topics are being repeated but that is expected with a book like this because there is only so much you can do.

I'd recommend this book. Really enjoyed the read. Godfrey is a fantastic author with a plethora of knowledge on the Reformation and what it actually means and how it applies to your life today.

*Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Reformation Trust Publishing via NetGalley* ( )