John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion is a defining book of the Reformation and a pillar of Protestant theology. First published in Latin in 1536 and in Calvin's native French in 1541; the Institutes argues for the majesty of God and for justification by faith alone. The book decisively shaped Calvinism as a major religious and intellectual force in Europe and throughout the world. Here; Bruce Gordon provides an essential biography of Calvin's influential and enduring theological masterpiece; tracing the diverse ways it has been read and interpreted from Calvin's time to today.Gordon explores the origins and character of the Institutes; looking closely at its theological and historical roots; and explaining how it evolved through numerous editions to become a complete summary of Reformation doctrine. He shows how the development of the book reflected the evolving thought of Calvin; who instilled in the work a restlessness that reflected his understanding of the Christian life as a journey to God. Following Calvin's death in 1564; the Institutes continued to be reprinted; reedited; and reworked through the centuries. Gordon describes how it has been used in radically different ways; such as in South Africa; where it was invoked both to defend and attack the horror of apartheid. He examines its vexed relationship with the historical Calvin―a figure both revered and despised―and charts its robust and contentious reception history; taking readers from the Puritans and Voltaire to YouTube; the novels of Marilynne Robinson; and to China and Africa; where the Institutes continues to find new audiences today.
#2559058 in Books Princeton University Press 2010-08-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.30 x 1.40 x 6.00l; 1.55 #File Name: 0691141975320 pages
Review
2 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Packed with History and Wonderful Imagery.By glen cantrellCatholic Pirates and Greek Merchants: A Maritime History of the Modern Mediterranean was well worth the read in every sense of the imagination and the learning. Molly Greene does her homework here and presents a fine study book for all of those who never knew this piece of World History. I loved this book and wish I would see more Authors like Molly Greene to take it on herself or himself to write about largely unknown totally fascinating History. 10 Stars for the effort. 10 Stars for the pure enjoyment.
