John Calvin

John Calvin was born on July 10, 1509, In Noyon, a small town in the north of France. Calvin’s father was a staunch roman catholic and became a church leader in the town’s cathedral. Calvin’s father had a close relationship with the church, and it was his wish that his son became a priest. Christian family and friends that Calvin associated with had an influence on his ecclesiastical life. Calvin attended college in Paris to prepare him for university education. While in Paris, Calvin became friends with reform-minded individuals, a situation that marked his transformation to reformed faith.

Calvin was the epitome of reformed faith. He was responsible for the fundamental changes in Protestantism and reformation. His teachings concentrated on the sovereignty of scriptures as well as divine predestination. Calvin transformation was marked by several writings; in his commentary on Seneca’s de Clementia, he indicates the resemblance between the Christian notions of providence and articulates liking to monarchy. His articulations indicate that conscience contains natural law. His writings had no doubt influenced the notions of Christianity, having made commentaries on several books of the bible. Calvin is considered the successor of Martin Luther. Although they exhibited different approaches, Luther was the only theologian who could be compared with Calvin’s expression of protestant theological underpinnings.

Calvin’s Protestantism gained further prominence from the year 1534. People who liked his theological doctrines, in France, requested his advice and instruction. His teaching skills and experience were immense. Those who acknowledged his Christian doctrines saw him as the epitome of change to Christian beliefs and evangelism. Calvin moved to Switzerland, where theologians and scholars who had recognized his doctrines welcomed him. The scholars intended to transform their city by adopting protestant doctrines that Calvin exemplified. While in Geneva, Calvin influenced his associates to set up schools throughout Geneva. Having acknowledged the significance of education, he encouraged parents to send children to the schools he established.

Calvin’s expression of Protestantism is apparent in his teachings. He made commentaries on various books of the bible including the old and New Testament. After changing his career, he published his first commentary on de Clementia, followed by a commentary on Psalms. After 1533, Calvin’s expressions had gained importance; In France, those who accepted his doctrines invited him for advice. Calvin is responsible for catechism of Christian doctrine, learnt from the schools he established.