Calvin's Institutes In-A-Year Chapter 17: God's Providence Applied [Vol#1] John Calvin [Audiobook]

Introduction

In Chapter 17 of John Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion," he addresses the doctrine of God's providence and its practical application for believers. The chapter emphasizes how God's providence governs all things in the world and how it can be understood in both reference to the past and the future.

Calvin begins by asserting that God's providence encompasses all events, operating in various ways—sometimes through means, sometimes without any means, and at times in opposition to means. Despite the tumultuous nature of human affairs, God's care for humanity, especially the church, is consistently illustrated. He cites Scriptures like Psalm 40:5, acknowledging the multitude of God's works and thoughts that are beyond human comprehension.

To derive benefits from this doctrine, believers must approach their Creator with humility, understanding that all occurrences are governed by God's incomprehensible will. Paul’s declaration in Romans 11:33-34 highlights how God's wisdom and judgments are unsearchable. This doctrine, he argues, should dispel any tendency of believers to blame God for personal failings or misfortunes, a theme illustrated through references to various Biblical figures such as Agamemnon and others from classical literature.

Calvin further emphasizes the compatibility of human agency and divine providence, illustrated by Proverbs 16:9. Humans may plan their paths, but ultimately, the Lord directs their steps. He reassures readers that God has provided means for self-care and preservation, and neglecting this wisdom may lead to ruin. Calvin is adamant that while criminals may inadvertently serve God's purposes, they should not be excused for their actions, as the moral responsibility for evil lies within the malicious intents of individuals.

He asserts that believers gain assurance from trusting in God's providence amid adversity. Calvin references how figures such as Joseph, Job, and David maintained their faith and composure in times of hardship, recognizing that their tribulations were permitted and directed by God's providence.

Calvin explains that knowledge of divine providence leads to gratitude in prosperity, patience during adversity, and security concerning future events. Even in the face of evils and dangers, a pious person is freed from anxiety when relying on God's providence, illustrating this through the lens of psalms that express trust and faith in God's protection.

However, he addresses a potential misunderstanding surrounding the apparent variability of God's decrees, citing instances in Scripture where God seemed to "repent." Calvin clarifies that these expressions should not lead one to conclude that God's will is susceptible to change. Instead, God communicates in ways humans can understand, indicating changes in His actions rather than His eternal counsels.

Calvin concludes by noting that God's willingness to alter His actions for mankind’s good does not imply a change in His overarching divine plan. The essence of God's counsel remains stable, illustrating His sovereignty over all creation and affirming that earthly decrees do not diminish God's eternal purpose.

Keywords

• Providence of God
• Divine will
• Humility
• Human agency
• Assurance
• Gratitude
• Adversity
• Repentance
• Sovereignty
• Eternal purpose

FAQ

Q1: What is the main focus of Calvin’s Chapter 17 in the "Institutes"?
A1: Chapter 17 focuses on the application of God's providence and how it governs all aspects of life, helping believers understand their relationship with God and the world.

Q2: How does Calvin distinguish between human action and God’s providence?
A2: Calvin teaches that while individuals may plan and act, it is ultimately God who directs their paths, revealing a harmony between divine sovereignty and human responsibility.

Q3: What scriptures does Calvin reference regarding God’s providence?
A3: Calvin references several scriptures, including Psalm 40:5, Romans 11:33-34, Proverbs 16:9, and various verses from Job, highlighting God's unsearchable wisdom and care.

Q4: How does Calvin suggest believers respond to adversity?
A4: Believers are encouraged to remain faithful and see adversities as part of God's providential governance, trusting that all events serve a purpose in God’s plan.

Q5: What does Calvin say about God's "repentance"?
A5: Calvin explains that references to God's repentance in scripture indicate changes in His actions rather than His eternal will, maintaining that God's eternal decrees remain unchanged.