Catholic Calvinism may seem like an oxymoron, but this festschrift honoring Ian Hamilton demonstrates how Reformed orthodoxy and an ecumenical spirit can coexist. The book explores how Reformed theology can maintain theological conviction while embracing a generous spirit toward other Christians.
The volume is divided into three sections: 'Orientation to Catholic Calvinism,' which defines the concept; 'Catholic Calvinist Convictions Lived Out,' which examines its practical application in areas like preaching, baptism, and the Lord's Supper; and 'Historic Role Models,' which identifies historical figures who exemplified these principles, including Augustine, Calvin, and John Owen.
Contributors include prominent theologians like Sinclair Ferguson, John MacArthur, and Joel Beeke. The essays engage with topics such as ministerial training, church unity amid theological differences, and the proper understanding of sacraments.
Throughout the book, the authors affirm that true Calvinism should be characterized by both doctrinal fidelity and an irenic spirit that recognizes fellow believers across denominational lines. The work presents Ian Hamilton as exemplifying this approach—someone who maintains strong Reformed convictions while exhibiting genuine love for all who belong to Christ's universal church.
Endorsements
Ian is a gift to the local church whose desire is to see the glory of God take root in our hearts. I have benefited greatly from his ministry and friendship, his warmth and love for the Lord have been a constant example. These essays in honour of Ian will not only hold forth biblical truths that he treasures, but Lord willing cause you to treasure them too.
Gerald White Pastor, Hope Church Bingham (20Schemes), Edinburgh
With all that could be said about Ian, I am thrilled to see this volume written in his honor by his friends. The essays within are both edifying and engaging, reflecting the rich legacy of this excellent servant of Christ. May the Lord, in His grace, be pleased to use this work far and wide for His glory alone.
Rob Ventura Pastor, Grace Community Baptist Church, Providence, Rhode Island
Ian Hamilton is an international treasure ... a preacher, theologian, author, international conference speaker, and much more. These chapters are a very fine attempt to address all aspects of his ministry. As one recently retired, I watch with considerable esteem the way he continues to help the church be the bride of Christ. This book is a triumph in every respect.
Derek W. H. Thomas Teaching Fellow, Ligonier Ministries; Retired Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church (ARP), Columbia, South Carolina
It is a privilege to commend this volume of warm and thoughtful essays in thanks to the Lord for a dear friend whose desire has been to echo John the Baptist: ‘Christ must increase, I must decrease.’
William VanDoodewaard Professor of Church History, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Greenville, South Carolina
There are believing repenting sinners whose lives have a certain fragrance, humility, and love for the truth that is Christ, and enflesh powerfully and unmistakably in their own lives His holy blessed life, as Ian, so unconsciously, does to our enormous delight and doxology.
Geoff Thomas Conference Speaker and author, Aberystwyth, Wales
It is a great joy to commend a book which reflects the character of Ian Hamilton himself: theologically rigorous and historically confessional, pastorally orientated, warm-hearted and above all breathing a spirit of true piety, of love and faith directed towards the Triune God.
Paul Yeulett Pastor, Grove Chapel Camberwell, London
This volume nobly sets out some of the core convictions in which we should all hope to emulate Ian Hamilton: Reformed confessional fidelity, catholic spirit, and pastoral heart. Many of these essays are uniquely informative and soul stirring as snapshots into a model of magnificent ministry.
Harrison Perkins Pastor, Oakland Hills Community Church (OPC), Farmington Hills, Michigan; author, ‘Righteous by Design: Covenantal Merit and Adam’s Original Integrity’
If you want to understand principially what catholic Calvinism is all about, this excellent and thoughtful book will tell you; but the life and example of Ian Hamilton will show you.
Warren Peel Minister of Trinity Reformed Presbyterian Church & Professor of New Testament Language and Literature, Reformed Theological College, Belfast
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