He Died for Me: Limited Atonement and the Universal Gospel

He Died for Me provides a convincing case for limited atonement by reviewing the history of this doctrine and affirming the universal offer of the gospel. 

200 pages.

“Johnson particularly offers useful theological and historical insights into the universal aspect of the work of Christ as per the generally accepted formula “sufficient for all, efficient only for the elect.” Those involved in the debate should read this monograph as they fine-tune what they believe to be the true Biblical and Reformed position." —Curt Daniel, Pastor, Faith Bible Church, Springfield, IL, and Author of The History and Theology of Calvinism

"Lack of historical perspective and careful nuance often hamper discussions on the extent of the atonement. That’s why you need to read He Died for Me. Jeffrey Johnson revives the old Lombardian distinction between limited efficacy and universal sufficiency, and he assesses the various ways the Reformed tradition has sought to harmonize the two. Next, Johnson seeks to move the conversation forward by relating the question of the atonement’s extent to the doctrine of union with Christ. In so doing, he makes an excellent case for a Calvinism that lays a solid basis for the free offer of the gospel." —Bob Gonzales, Dean, Reformed Baptist Seminary, Sacramento, CA

Jeffrey Johnson describes his latest book, He Died for Me, as essentially about an “in-house debate among Calvinists,” and that it is. But I think even non-Calvinists would learn a great deal from this book. It is an excellent introduction to the historical debate concerning the efficacy and sufficiency of the atonement that ought to be read by anyone interested in the issue. Whether one agrees with Jeff’s final answer or not, he or she will certainly come away with a better understanding of the issue, both biblically and historically, and, no doubt a better understanding of his or her own position as well. As for me, I approached the book with a fairly high degree of skepticism, but it surprised me in several ways. First of all, I was surprised to discover that I did not understand the historical background of the debate nearly as well as I thought I did. Second, I was surprised to discover that I hadn’t been nearly as consistent in my thinking on the matter as I thought I had been. And third, I was surprised that the book won me over; Jeff convinced me of his position. The book is also written in a very clear and accessible way. So, to say the least, I highly recommend it. Even if you are not convinced by Jeff’s arguments in the end, you will still certainly learn a lot from the book. However, you may just end up being as surprised as I was—you may just end up agreeing with it!" —Keith Troop, Pastor, Immanuel Baptist Church, Bloomington, IL