The focus of this book is on the universality of grace. The most important theological presupposition of the writers is the conviction that God is good in an unqualified manner, that He desires the salvation of all sinners, and that to each human being God offers forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

"If it seems controversial to assert this conviction boldly and unashamedly," says dark Pinnock, "then it ought at least to be admitted that here is a truth far more deserving of controversy than many which are debated. On it hangs the validity of the universal offer of the Gospel and the possibility of Christian assurance. If we do not know that God loves all sinners, we do not know that He loves us, and we do not know that He loves those to whom we take the Gospel."

The writers come to grips with three important concepts-election, faith, and predestination-and give them a thorough examination. Although the chapters are not written in an argumentive manner, the book is controversial in that it opposes a view widely held in evangelical circles that some men are predestinated to everlasting life and others foreordained to everlasting death. This calvinistic position is better known and defended in evangelical Christian circles than the position which this volume presents. Thus the need for a scholarly exposition of what the writers believe to be a more biblical position. They hope that this volume will spark further research and writing until it will be possible for Christian people at large to have a thorough opportunity to make an intelligent decision on these matters.