In these sections, Calvin proves the deity of Christ over against those who would deny it. The argument here provides a good instance of Calvin’s proof-texting. We generally hear of proof-texts only in negative terms today. But Calvin’s approach reminds…
Having defended the use of technical theological language as an aid to our understanding of Scriptural doctrines like the Trinity, Calvin in 1.13.4 argues that accurate theological terminology helps us to “unmask false teachers.” Precise terminology nails us down as…
After concluding his arguments against idolatry, proving that any use of images in worship is a sacrilege, Calvin turns to a consideration of the Trinity, as taught in Scripture. In addition to providing a basic definition of the doctrine–there is…
Calvin continues to make his case against the use of images (icons, crucifixes, and the like) in Christian worship, which he believes to be nothing less than an idolatrous violation of the Second Commandment. One of Calvin’s arguments is historical:…
This section of the Institutes includes one of the most helpful comments that Calvin ever made about the Christian life. “Man’s nature,” he said, “is a perpetual factory of idols.” In context, Calvin is referring to idols in their most…
The Institutes is a positive presentation of Christian faith and doctrine. But it is also something more: a polemical response to the Roman Catholic Church, in which Calvin defends the theology and practice of the Reformation. Here we find the…
It is characteristic of Calvin’s theology in general and of his Institutes in particular to give strong affirmation to the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Generally speaking, Calvin does not do this by treating the Third Person…
Calvin skilfully weaves themes together like strands of thread. Faith appears in connection with the self-authentication of Scripture, then disappears from view, returning in Book III. Word and Spirit come together, and then come together again. This style is partly…
We noted earlier the distinction Calvin draws between certainty and opinion. The Holy Spirit brings about the certain conviction that Scripture is the Word of God, whereas the testimony of the church can only help us to form the opinion…
The Christian church is subordinate to the Word of God. She does not grant the Bible its authority. Divine authority exercised through Scripture comes before the church, it is not established by the church. Calvin here begins to develop a…
