Compel Them to Come in: Calvinism and the Free Offer of the Gospel

“Donald Macleod retired as the Principal of the Free Church of Scotland College, Edinburgh in 2010. Regarded as one of Britain’s most prominent theologians he has written extensively on a wide range of issues. ”

“This is by far the best account I have ever read on the free offer of the gospel. MacLeod demolishes all the arguments that would inhibit or restrict offering Christ freely to sinners. He sets the gospel offer in the widest context of the purpose of God and the work of Christ. Above all, he communicates this with an infectious passion for the glory of Christ and the salvation of sinners, young and old. In today’s world this book is desperately needed; it could do untold good. ”

“This is one of the most soul–stirring, liberating books that I have read on this subject. Donald MacLeod provides the reader with a necessary reminder to seek to persuade and implore men and women on Christ’s behalf to be reconciled to God. I hope that it will show up in my preaching. I commend this book particularly to a rising group of young reformed pastors who when it comes to this matter of the ‘free offer’ are in danger of being tripped up by their own theological shoelaces. ”

“Here we have an antidote to cool, professional detachment, as we are reminded that the business of evangelism is serious. There is a heaven to win and a hell to lose. Drawing from the wells of Scripture and the high–water marks of mission in Church history, we are reminded that the communication of the gospel must be carried out with passion, conviction and persuasion. ”

“Too frequently the free offer of the gospel is hedged about with qualifications that distort the Biblical picture of the character of God and of Jesus Christ. This wonderfully clear book by a notable Reformed teacher and preacher will thrill the soul of any reader and encourage preachers to persuade sinners of every kind as they proclaim the Gospel to them. ”

“Using both Scripture and the history of evangelistic preaching Donald Macleod deals with all the common obstacles that hinder Calvinists from passionately appealing to their hearers to believe in the Lord Jesus. And very effectively too. I found Compel them to Come In searching, humbling, convicting, encouraging, and deeply persuasive. In the hope that that’s how you might find it, may I urge you to make time to read it? ”