Here We Stand

The Genius of Geneva: John Calvin (1509–1564)

6 snips
Oct 23, 2024
Explore the fervent life of John Calvin as he illustrates his zeal to glorify God, turning a sudden conversion into a powerful theological vision. Discover how a reluctant call to pastor led him to transform Geneva, despite his academic ambitions. Delve into his critique of Roman practices that he felt diminished Christ's glory and learn about his lifelong pursuit of understanding Scripture through the lens of God's majesty. Ultimately, uncover how passion, not just intellect, defined Geneva’s theological genius.
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INSIGHT

Zeal For God's Glory Defined Calvin

  • Calvin's life centered on zeal to illustrate the glory of God rather than personal ambition.
  • He embodied a passion for the absolute reality and majesty of God that shaped all his work.
ANECDOTE

Farel's Imprecation Changed Calvin's Path

  • While passing through Geneva, Calvin met William Farel who thundered that God would curse Calvin's scholarly retirement if he refused to help the city.
  • That confrontation terrified Calvin and redirected his life into pastoral ministry in Geneva.
INSIGHT

Pastoral Burden Fueled Calvin's Output

  • Calvin abandoned private scholarly comfort and produced voluminous pastoral writings under pastoral pressure.
  • He wrote 48 volumes of sermons, commentaries, and letters hammered out on the anvil of pastoral responsibility.
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