Redemption Accomplished and Applied

John Murray was the systematic theology professor at Westminster Seminary for many years and as such, held one of the most high profile and influential academic positions within the ranks of reformed theology. This particular book was his attempt to succinctly outline the tenets of reformed soteriology, and it has become a standard text that multitudes of later pastors, teachers, and theologians have drawn from in their works.The book is divided into two basic sections. The first section analyzes the accomplishment of the atonement. This is the section where Murray argues in favor of the most disputed point of the 5 points of Calvinism, 'limited atonement'. It is also the section where Murray puts forward the somewhat controversial doctrine of divine alienation, which says that the reconciling act of the atonement did much more to address God's holy alienation from us than it did to address our alienation from God. This doctrine tends to go against modern views which say that reconciliation is purely an event where we become reconciled to God as soon as we exercise faith, and that's it. Murray takes exception to this by saying that alienation is not purely humanity's alienation from God, but also God's holy alienation from us as a result of our sin and that this holy alienation must also be addressed in order for genuine reconciliation to be possible. Murray does a very good job of analyzing this area and might well be the most profitable part of the book from a purely theological perspective since this aspect of the atonement is rarely thought about or discussed.The second section of the book is where Murray puts forth the classic reformed understanding of the ordo salutis. This is the section where Murray argues that monergistic regeneration precedes faith and makes a faith response on our part possible. This is one of the main aspects of reformed soteriology that is an affront to the anthropocentric soteriology held sacred by much of Christendom. However, I happen to strongly agree with Murray here. His analysis of regeneration, justification, sanctification, and perseverance are all very good.The one area where I thought the book lacked a bit was in Murray's exposition of limited atonement. I personally thought that this section could have been beefed up considerably, and it surprised me that Murray didn't make a bigger investment here in defending this doctrine, knowing full well that this doctrine is a source of intense controversy. For what Murray says, he does quite well. But there was much here that didn't get said, and a number of difficult Scripture passages that weren't really dealt with, and as a result, I think someone who wants to read an exhaustive defense of limited atonement will not be able to rely completely on this book. However, I want to make clear that even though the limited atonement section is arguably a little thin, I do think that Murray makes a good case for limited atonement, while making very compell

Every Christian needs to read and understand this book! This is not JUST for the theologian or the student of reformed theology - it is a superbly written Biblical exposition of the tremendous and unfathomable work of the Lord Jesus Christ in redeeming His people. This is orthodox doctrine at its best. Murray is clear, deep, and precise. However, this is not just another systematic theology. You will be spiritually and emotionally challenged as you read, because the author obviously knows the Lord of whom he writes, and the import of His sufficient work. It is wonderfully organized and well written. Some might say that the language is a bit scholastic - I say it is how I wish I could write and others should. While deeply intellectual, it cuts to the heart and soul. NO contemporary author does this as well. It is a REAL shame that people are out buying up the latest Christian 'self help' "book", and not buying up every copy of this riveting work on God's beautiful and sufficient work to redeem sinners.IF you THINK you understand the Gospel, the Atonement, etc. and have not read this book, you do yourself a disservice. Murray's treatment of definite atonement, and perseverence are superb. The whole book is a wonderful display of Biblical exegesis. READ THIS OVER AND OVER!

Since attending Seminary, this book is the one I use and refer to most. Short but dense with clear exposition of the Christian doctrine of Redemption. Absolutely indispensable for theologians.

John Murray's work deals with The Atonement in all of its simplicity and manifold accomplishments. He rightly begins his exposition with God; the offense to His Holiness caused by the fall of man.The book is divided into two parts; Redemption Accomplished, which deals with the necessity, nature, perfection, and the extent of the Atonement, followed by Redemption Applied. The chapter on Justification is the capstone of the book. This book is not an easy read, nor is it a cursory treatment of biblical soteriology. The thoughtful reader will benefit from the richness of John Murray's prose, as well as the masterful way he rightly divides the word, using both Old and New Testaments.

Professor Murray's study of soteriology is the best of its kind. He masterfully unfolds the various aspects of the atonement with careful exegesis of Scripture. He Biblically defends the doctrine of particular redemption and explains with clarity such difficult concepts as propitiation, reconciliation, and redemption. Part two deals with the application of redemption. Again, the arguments are developed exegetically with precision and clarity. The chapters on justification and perseverance are particularly insightful, and I think his understanding of the ordo salutis is both logical and Biblical. This is one of the ten most impactful, thought-shaping books that I have read. I heartilly commend it to all pastors, theologians, and students of the Word.