A Journey in Grace is a book that seeks to teach theology in the setting of a fictional novel about Pastor Ira Pointer and his discovery of the doctrines of grace. The biblical doctrine taught by Dr. Belcher in this book is often referred to as Calvinism. A label the author prefers is "The Doctrines of Grace." This format is ideal for teenagers, young adults and perhaps those who are not that familiar with this biblical teaching. What Richard Belcher accomplishes with great success is to clearly instruct the reader on this often maligned doctrine. The reader is also exposed to what is thought to be Calvinism but, in reality, is a caricature of it. Another great value of this book is that there is a good deal of help in learning how to present what one believes in a gracious manner. A Journey in Grace is the first in a series that now totals 18 volumes, each one focusing on a specific biblical doctrine. The story begins with the main character, Ira Pointer, being interviewed for his initial pastorate. The interview seems to be going well until one of the men asks Ira with an abrasive spirit if he is a Calvinist. The journey thus begins with Ira trying to find out what a Calvinist is and then seeking to assess if he is one. A Journey in Grace, by Richard Belcher, is billed as being "A Theological Novel." So intrigued was I at the prospect of reading a theological novel that I left this book sitting on my shelf for seven years before I ever thought to read it. And now I can't help but wish I had read it sooner. I believe the order of the words in "theological novel" is important. This book is definitely better theology than fiction. As theology it is exceptional. I chose to read and examine it as theology rather than fiction since that is clearly its primary purpose. A Journey in Grace tells the story of Ira Pointer, a young man who is studying for the ministry in a fictitious Bible college. While being interviewed for the position of pastor at a nearby church, he is asked the question, "Young man, are you a Calvinist?" The story then unfolds around Ira trying to define and understand Calvinism. Examining Calvinistic Doctrine Being the methodical sort, he examines Calvinist beliefs point-by-point, holding them up before Scripture to allow the light of the Word to shine through. And he is sure to study not only the points but also the counter-points. What emerges is a strong defense of the doctrines of grace that, while set in a fictitious setting, is still remarkably instructive. In terms of usefulness as a defense of the doctrines, I would rate it higher than many non-fiction books I have read that cover the same topic. I admit that this sounds dry. But while it may sound that way, it actually flows quite naturally. It could be that I am biased towards any novel that features a hyper-Calvinist and a convinced Arminian as the antagonists, but I think there is more to it than that. I found it an enjoyable read and learned a lot about a topic I thought I had mastered. I recommend this one. In fact, I so enjoyed it that I have immediately begun to read the sequel, A Journey in Purity." --Tim Challies I know of very few books that have influenced as many readers to discover the doctrines of grace as this book. While doing so, Dr. Belcher exhibits the truth of God's sovereign election in all of its comforting and encouraging glory. --Dennis Gundersen Dr. Richard Belcher is the author of numerous books in the field of Bible study, theology, language and biography. But he is best known for the Journey theological novels, beginning with A Journey in Grace. Dr. Belcher has been active in ministry for over 50 years and taught for 26 years at Columbia International University.  He has trained thousands of students in Systematic Theology, preaching, and hermeneutics. But Dr. Belcher served not merely from behind the podium.  He has always been a mentor, coming alongside students during difficult times in their ministries. Trade Paperback