In this section of the Institutes, Calvin addresses too issues that demonstrate the prevalence of corruption in the church. First is the issue of clerical celibacy. The insistence that priests remain unmarried has, says Calvin, ‘no only deprived the church…
Calvin is here dealing with the subject of church power and discipline, and resumes his consideration of the subject of fasting. He has a marvellous three-point directive to ensure that fasting does not degenerate into religious superstition. First, we must…
It is a dangerous and impious zeal that seeks to “unchurch” a brother or sister because they do not meet our standards of perfection. Discipline in the church, Calvin argues, must be done with a measure of grace and understanding;…
Common as it is today to cast the burden of examination prior to participation at the Lord’s Supper upon the participant, Calvin saw it otherwise: knowingly and willingly to admit “an unworthy person whom he could rightfully turn away, is…
It is a fact often cited (too often?) that Calvin did not regard church discipline as a mark of the church, insisting instead on two marks: faithful preaching and the right administration of the sacraments. This is often said to…
Should ministers of the gospel also be found in the world of civilian politics? No, according to Calvin, citing Ambrose: “to the emperor belongs the palaces; to the priest the churches.” The Genevan reformer has in mind the aggregation of…
Calvin’s interpretation of the “keys of the kingdom” (Matt. 16:19; 18:17-18) contends with Roman views advocating the primacy of the Roman see. “[T]hey know so well,” Calvin comments, “how to fit their keys to any locks and doors they please…
Calvin moves from the claim that the Church has the power to set up new doctrines to the idea that the Church has the power to interpret Scripture. Calvin, of course, does not believe that just because a council decrees…
Calvin’s entries here continue his discussion about councils–insisting on their value and refuting that idea that they are doctrinally infallible. Scripture foretells that there will be danger and destruction within the church by pastors of the church; therefore we must…
Calvin now deals with what his opponents’ objections and defenses of their additions to God’s Word. Won’t the Spirit guide us into truth (John 16:13)? Yes, but only through the Word, not in place of the Word. Didn’t Jesus say that…
