White Horse Inn The Most Misunderstood Theologian of the Reformation
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Oct 12, 2025 Explore the common misconceptions about Calvin, unraveling the myths surrounding predestination and his character. Discover the pastoral context of Calvin’s theology, emphasizing God’s mercy over predestination. Learn about the differences between Calvin and his contemporaries, and his views on free will, laughter, and enjoyment. Dive into the Servetus affair for a nuanced understanding of Calvin's role. Finally, see how Reformed theology fuels evangelism and the importance of engaging with Reformation figures critically.
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Calvin Is Not The Sole Center
- Michael Horton argues Calvin is the most misunderstood Reformer and not the sole center of the Reformed tradition.
- Calvin drew from Augustine, Bucer, and others, so the tradition is broader than a single person or doctrine.
Confessions Emphasize Human Liberty
- The Westminster Confession affirms natural liberty of the will and denies God as author of sin.
- Reformed confessions align with Augustine and Aquinas on providence and human responsibility.
Predestination Grew As It Was Contested
- Calvin wrote little on election in his first edition of the Institutes; predestination grew in prominence as opposition rose.
- The idea of a single "central dogma" is a later historiographical construct, not Calvin's intent.
