By John Calvin
The Institutes of the Christian Religion.
Volume 2, Containing book 3 and book 4
By John Calvin
Translated from the Orginal Latin, and collated with the authors last edition in French,
By John Allen.
Sixth American Edition, Revised and Corrected in Two Volumes.
Volume 2, Containing book 3 and book 4
PHILADELPHIA: PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION.
Contents of Institutes of the Christian Religion:
“The Institutes of the Christian Religion” by John Calvin is a comprehensive and systematic work of Christian theology. Originally published in 1536 and expanded through several editions, this magnum opus is divided into four books, each addressing specific aspects of Christian doctrine. Here’s an overview of the content:
Book I: The Knowledge of God the Creator
- Chapters 1-5: Calvin begins with the concept of knowledge of God, arguing that knowledge of self and knowledge of God are intertwined.
- Chapters 6-10: He explores the nature of God, emphasizing attributes such as unity, spirituality, and eternity.
- Chapters 11-13: Calvin discusses the Trinity, explaining the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Book II: The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ
- Chapters 1-4: Calvin delves into the person and work of Jesus Christ, addressing his dual nature as both fully divine and fully human.
- Chapters 5-9: He examines the biblical doctrine of redemption, emphasizing Christ’s role as the mediator between God and humanity.
- Chapters 10-18: The sacraments (Baptism and the Lord’s Supper) are discussed, as Calvin outlines their significance and proper administration.
Book III: The Way in Which We Receive the Grace of Christ
- Chapters 1-3: Calvin explores the role of faith in justification, emphasizing the concept of justification by faith alone.
- Chapters 4-21: He discusses repentance, Christian liberty, prayer, the Law of God, and the role of the civil magistrate.
Book IV: The External Means or Aids by Which God Invites Us into the Society of Christ and Holds Us Therein
- Chapters 1-3: Calvin examines the role of the church in the Christian life and the importance of the true preaching of the Word.
- Chapters 4-12: The sacraments are revisited in relation to the Church, with discussions on the Church’s authority and the papacy.
- Chapters 13-20: Calvin addresses issues related to ceremonies, civil government, and the relationship between the spiritual and temporal realms.
Throughout “The Institutes,” Calvin provides extensive biblical references, engages with classical Christian thought, and offers logical arguments to support his theological positions. The work is not only a theological treatise but also serves as a guide for Christian living, encompassing ethical and practical aspects of the Christian faith. It has had a profound impact on Reformed theology and continues to be studied and referenced by theologians and scholars today.
John Calvin’s influence on the Protestant Reformation:
John Calvin had a profound and lasting influence on the Protestant Reformation, and his impact can be seen in various aspects of theology, church governance, and societal norms. Here are some key aspects of Calvin’s influence on the Reformation:
Reformed Theology:
Doctrinal Clarity: Calvin’s theological writings, particularly “The Institutes of the Christian Religion,” provided a systematic and clear articulation of Reformed theology. His emphasis on the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the authority of Scripture helped shape the theological framework of Reformed traditions.
Church Governance:
Ecclesiastical Structure: Calvin’s ideas on church governance, often referred to as Presbyterianism, emphasized a hierarchical system of church leadership with elders and pastors. This model of church organization has been influential in many Reformed and Presbyterian churches around the world.
Liturgical Practices:
Reformed Worship: Calvin influenced the development of worship practices in Reformed churches. His emphasis on simplicity and the centrality of preaching in worship services has shaped the liturgical traditions of many Reformed denominations.
Education:
Emphasis on Education: Calvin believed in the importance of education, and this emphasis on intellectual rigor and learning had a lasting impact. The establishment of educational institutions in Geneva, such as the Geneva Academy, contributed to the spread of Calvinist ideas and produced generations of Reformed scholars.
Social Ethics:
Influence on Social Norms: Calvin’s teachings extended beyond the theological realm to influence social and ethical norms. His emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and ethical conduct contributed to the development of a Protestant work ethic, influencing economic and societal structures.
Spread of Calvinism:
Global Impact: Calvinism, with its theological distinctives and ecclesiastical structure, spread beyond Geneva and became a significant force in the Reformation. It took root in various European countries and had a lasting impact on the development of Protestant Christianity.
Political Theology:
Calvin’s Political Thought: Calvin’s ideas on the relationship between church and state and his concept of a commonwealth influenced political thought. His teachings on the role of magistrates in upholding both moral and civil order had implications for the development of political systems.
Legacy and Enduring Impact:
Enduring Theological Legacy: Calvin’s legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. His theological writings and the institutional structures he helped establish continue to shape the beliefs and practices of millions of Reformed Christians worldwide.
In summary, John Calvin played a pivotal role in shaping the theological, ecclesiastical, and societal landscape of the Protestant Reformation. His ideas continue to influence various denominations and theological traditions within the broader umbrella of Protestantism.
Looking for a Hardcover or Paperback?
For those who want to have a hardcover or a paperback of this book, I want to suggest you to look here (hardcover translated by John Allen) or here (papercover and hardcover translated by Henri Beveridge)