Resources
Below are pdf versions of books to learn more about the beginnings and beliefs of Calvary Chapel and other resources that may help you in your walk with the Lord. All books are free to access.
Calvary Distinctives
By Chuck Smith
What makes Calvary Chapel Distinctive? Pastor Chuck Smith explains a unique and strong emphasis on teaching the Word of God, as well as the gifts and ministry of the Holy Spirit. In this book Pastor Chuck teaches the call to the ministry, church government, the rapture of the church and the priority of studying the Word of God.
Why Grace Changes Everything
By Chuck Smith
With remarkable insight gleaned from his own life, Pastor Chuck Smith unfolds the mystery of grace and reveals a surprising truth: we can never grow in grace by our own efforts. True grace flows from the heart of the Father through the love of Jesus Christ. Why Grace Changes Everything is beautiful exploration of God’s grace. In the book we learn that God is for you, He loves you, He’ll forgive you, and He, through His grace, is the greatest source of security you will ever know. This is grace! And it makes life worth living.
Living Water
By Chuck Smith
Chuck Smith explores the role and work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, emphasizing its power to transform and guide. The book aims to provide a clear understanding of the Holy Spirit's person and function, addressing questions about His identity, actions, and the gifts He bestows. It encourages readers to develop a close, personal relationship with the Holy Spirit and experience His power in their lives.
Charisma Vs. Charismania
By Chuck Smith
In his book "Charisma vs. Charismania," Chuck Smith explores the difference between the genuine, Spirit-led work of God (charisma) and the human imitation of that work (charismania). Smith argues in his book that true charisma is a natural anointing of the Holy Spirit, while charismania is a fleshly endeavor to replicate spiritual experiences through human effort. He emphasizes the importance of grounding Christian life and ministry in the Word of God to avoid the pitfalls of charismania and experience the true power and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Final Act
By Chuck Smith
What exciting days we are living in! Like observers invited backstage before a play, we can see the director positioning the players and making sure the props are in order. We can feel the excitement in these minutes before he signals for the curtain to rise. This analogy is apt, for God is positioning nations and current events before our very eyes. The world is ready for the curtain to be lifted for the final act. Prepare yourself for the drama of the end times—the return of Jesus Christ.
In The Final Act, Pastor Chuck Smith sets the stage for God’s prophetic plan, providing insight into current world events leading up to one climactic battle that will usher in eternity.
Explaining the rapture, the rise of the Antichrist, and conditions that favor the Lord’s soon return, The Final Act is a compact, hard-hitting exposé on the last days of human history.
Effective Prayer Life
By Chuck Smith
This collection of studies on prayer presents you with certain Scriptures, thoughts, and rules. When you put them into practice in your life, they will bring you into a new relationship with God, and help you to experience a more effective and dynamic prayer life in which to do battle against the evil forces in these last days. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spirits, powers and principalities, thus the weapons of our warfare cannot be carnal. Prayer is the most potent weapon that we possess in our spiritual arsenal and by it we can pull down the strongholds of the enemy. Does Satan have a stronghold on your city government? Does he have a stronghold on your husband or wife or children? Through this book you will learn how to break down these strongholds.
The Gospel According to Grace
By Chuck Smith
The Gospel According to Grace," a book by Chuck Smith, is a verse-by-verse commentary on the book of Romans, focusing on the theme of God's grace and its transformative power in salvation. It explores how God's grace, revealed through Jesus Christ's suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension, is the only means by which humanity can be saved from God's wrath. The book emphasizes that grace is a free gift, not earned through works, and that through faith in Jesus, individuals are justified and reconciled to God.
Calvinism, Arminianism And The Word Of God
By Chuck Smith
Calvinism, Arminianism & The Word of God," by Chuck Smith, provides a Calvary Chapel perspective on the theological debate between Calvinism and Arminianism, emphasizing a balanced approach based on the Bible. The book explores key doctrines like total depravity, election, and atonement, presenting the arguments of both sides while encouraging unity within the Christian community. Smith's work aims to help readers understand the core differences between these two viewpoints and to apply biblical principles to their understanding of God's word
Answers For Today
By Chuck Smith
Answers for Today" by Chuck Smith is a book that addresses common questions about Christian faith and practice, offering insights into topics like healing, the rapture, and discerning truth from error. It's known for its clear and accessible explanations of biblical concepts, even for those new to the Bible.
Harvest
By Chuck Smith
Harvest" by Chuck Smith is a book that chronicles the growth of Calvary Chapel through the stories of its pastors and leaders, including Smith himself. It highlights how God broke through barriers like evil, pride, and anger to transform individuals from diverse backgrounds into effective ministers. The book emphasizes God's plan for Calvary Chapel and encourages readers to participate in His harvest
Philosophy Of Ministry Of Calvary Chapel
By Chuck Smith
Chuck Smith's philosophy of ministry, as articulated in his book "The Philosophy of Ministry of Calvary Chapel," centers on the verse-by-verse teaching of God's Word as the primary catalyst for church growth and maturity. Smith emphasizes that the church exists to glorify God, edify believers, and equip them for ministry. He also highlights the importance of "where God guides, God provides" and the concept of "eternal security"
Comfort For Those Who Mourn
By Chuck Smith
Comfort For Those Who Mourn," by Chuck Smith, is a booklet designed to offer solace and guidance to individuals experiencing grief after the loss of a loved one. It draws from Scripture, specifically focusing on King David's mourning for Jonathan, to provide a sensitive and scriptural approach to navigating the difficult adjustment period following a loss. The booklet encourages releasing emotions, finding healthy activities, and ultimately, finding hope in God's comfort.
Christian Family Relationships
By Chuck Smith
In his book "Christian Family Relationships," Chuck Smith explores the biblical principles for strengthening family bonds, focusing on the roles of husbands, wives, and children as outlined in Colossians 3 and Ephesians 6. The book emphasizes practical application of these principles to create a more harmonious and God-centered family life.
Venture In Faith - Video
By A Group Of Calvary Chapel Pastors
This is an outstanding documentary on the history and philosophy of Calvary Chapel. It demonstrates how through one man's (Chuck Smith) faith and obedience, God began a revival in a period known as the Jesus Movement. This video chronicles the trials that Chuck Smith faced by stepping out into a ministry and trusting that "Where God Guides, God Provides."