October 22 – John Calvin: The Theologian of God’s Glory

If Martin Luther lit the fire of the Reformation, John Calvin gave it structure and depth. A French theologian, pastor, and writer, Calvin devoted his life to proclaiming the sovereignty of God, the sufficiency of Scripture, and the supremacy of Christ. His writings and ministry in Geneva made him one of the most influential figures in church history, shaping not only the sixteenth century but also the centuries that followed.

Early Life and Conversion

John Calvin was born in 1509 in Noyon, France, into a devout Catholic family. Gifted academically, he studied law and humanist scholarship in Paris and Orléans. Like Erasmus, Calvin mastered Latin and Greek, equipping him for a life of scholarship.

But God had other plans. Around 1533, Calvin experienced what he later described as a “sudden conversion.” The gospel of justification by faith alone gripped his heart. He turned from trust in works to trust in Christ, and with that change came a lifelong devotion to God’s Word and glory.

The Institutes of the Christian Religion

In 1536, at just twenty-six years old, Calvin published the first edition of his Institutes of the Christian Religion. This work explained the basics of the faith and defended Protestant believers facing persecution. Over the years, Calvin expanded the Institutes into one of the most influential theological works ever written, systematizing the truths of the Reformation.

The Institutes emphasized the majesty of God, the authority of Scripture, the depth of human sin, and the grace of salvation through Christ alone. Its clear logic and biblical grounding made it a handbook for believers across Europe.

Ministry in Geneva

Though Calvin initially sought a quiet life of study, God called him into the center of reform. In 1536, on his way to Strasbourg, he stopped in Geneva. Guillaume Farel famously persuaded him to stay, warning that God would curse his rest if he refused. Calvin yielded, beginning a ministry that would transform the city.

Geneva became a model Reformation city under Calvin’s leadership. He established a church government with pastors, elders, teachers, and deacons. He emphasized the centrality of preaching and catechism. He also founded an academy that trained pastors and missionaries who carried the gospel across Europe.

Theology and Convictions

Calvin’s theology was deeply biblical and centered on God’s glory:

• Sola Scriptura: Scripture is the only infallible authority.

• Sola Fide, Sola Gratia: Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone.

• God’s Sovereignty: Calvin emphasized God’s absolute rule over creation, salvation, and history.

• Union with Christ: He taught that all the blessings of salvation flow from being united to Christ by faith.

• The Glory of God: For Calvin, the ultimate purpose of all things was the glory of God alone.

Calvin also wrote commentaries on nearly every book of the Bible, providing pastors with tools to preach and teach faithfully.

Opposition and Perseverance

Calvin faced fierce opposition. Early in Geneva, he was expelled for his strict reforms, only to be called back a few years later. He endured conflicts, sickness, and even death threats. Yet he remained steadfast, convinced that the gospel was worth every trial.

He lived simply, working tirelessly until his health failed. On his deathbed, he asked to be buried in an unmarked grave, lest he be honored more than his Lord.

Legacy

John Calvin’s influence is vast. His theology shaped Reformed churches across Europe. His emphasis on education inspired schools and universities. His focus on God’s glory and Scripture’s authority continues to shape evangelical theology today.

Though often caricatured as austere, Calvin was a pastor at heart, laboring to feed God’s people with His Word. His legacy is not one of cold doctrine but of deep devotion to the God who saves by grace alone.

Biblical Reflection

Romans 11:36 captures Calvin’s heartbeat:

“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”

Every page of Calvin’s writings and every sermon he preached pointed to this truth: God’s glory is the goal of all things.

Application for Today

From Calvin’s life, we learn:

1. Glorify God in All Things – Calvin’s vision reminds us that every part of life belongs to God and must honor Him.

2. Stay Rooted in Scripture – His commentaries and preaching show the necessity of grounding our faith in the Word.

3. Persevere in Calling – Despite opposition and weakness, Calvin remained faithful to the end.

Conclusion

John Calvin was not seeking fame but faithfulness. By God’s providence, his preaching, teaching, and writing shaped the course of church history. His life points us upward to the majesty of God, who saves sinners by grace and rules over all for His glory. Calvin’s voice still calls us today to know, love, and glorify the God who reigns over heaven and earth.