Calvin’s teaching has never been for shrinking violets, nor is John Calvin himself thought of as “soft.” He uses strong language about those who are enemies of the gospel (“pigs,” “dogs”). In discussing church discipline he notes the special responsibilities…
“Wherever we see the Word of God purely preached and heard, and the sacraments administered according to Christ’s institution, there, it is not to be doubted, a church of God exists” (4.1.9). Thus Calvin identifies the two (not three) marks…
The Reformers affirmed the necessary distinction between the church visible and invisible; that is, between the one church of Christ on earth as man sees it, and the one church in heaven and earth as God sees it. The one…
And thus we turn to Book 4 of the Institutes, the longest of the sections. How is the work of Christ on behalf of the elect appropriated? Answer: by faith in the gospel. But, since we are ignorant and slothful…
The annihilation of the wicked was not a popular thought in the sixteenth century. Therefore, when Calvin discusses the resurrection of unbelievers, it is not so much the fact of their resurrection that is in view, but the implications of…
It is important for Calvin to stress that the form of bodily resurrection does not break with the present creation; rather, it will be creations completion. In the resurrection God proves himself as the Giver of Life (3.25.4). The notion…
Yesterday I didn’t get to 3.25.3. That’s likely for the best, since that section is closely connected with today’s reading. In his discussion of hope springing from the final resurrection, Calvin turns to the bodily resurrection. This is a cardinal…
With this new chapter, Calvin moves from the discussion of election to the final resurrection. As he explains, citing Peter, the issue of the resurrection is “the outcome of our faith” (1 Peter 1:8-9; 3.25.1). In discussing election, God’s bringing…
Now on to reprobation, not nearly as edifying as election and assurance–should I protest to Dr. Thomas for choosing me to write on this section?! Calvin starts here at the same place he does with election, firmly and solidly in…
Calvin ended yesterday’s reading by lodging election squarely “in Christ alone.” Now he develops how this grounds, roots, and anchors–pick any metaphor your prefer–our assurance. Way back when I was working on my dissertation, tackling Edwards on assurance, I remember…
