Calvin's Institutes Of The Christian Religion: Book#1 - God The Creator | John Calvin [Audiobook]

Introduction

Contents Overview

Book One of Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion" focuses on the knowledge of God the Creator, particularly as it is most manifest in the creation of man. The principal topics of this treatise are two-fold: the knowledge of God and the knowledge of man. While the two concepts are considered together in the first chapters, subsequent chapters treat them separately, covering various pertinent areas.

Knowledge of God

The text begins by exploring what kind of knowledge God himself requires and where it can be found. Key points discussed include:

1. The Human Mind and Knowledge:

   • Although the human mind is naturally endowed with knowledge of God, ignorance and wickedness extinguish it.
   • The structure of the world provides evidence of God, but it may be unacknowledged due to human folly.
   • The scripture remains the most reliable source to find knowledge of God.

2. The Nature of God:

   • The book outlines the irrationality of assigning a visible form to God and emphasizes that He be solely worshiped.

3. Divine Unity and Persons:

   • The unity of the Divine Essence and the distinction of the three persons are integral aspects of God's nature.

Knowledge of Man

Following the examination of God's nature, the text shifts to the knowledge of man:

1. Creation and Angels:

   • The dissertation covers the creation of the world and the roles of both good and evil angels.

2. Human Nature and Power:

   • An exploration into the nature of man follows, emphasizing the importance of human faculties of understanding and will.

3. The Divine Image:

   • Man was made in the image of God, which is significant for understanding human dignity and purpose.

4. Free Will:

   • Discussion on free will highlights that although man was created with the power to choose, the fall has inhibited the exercise of true freedom and moral integrity.

5. God's Governance and Manipulation of Events:

   • God governs the world and all human actions, using the agency of wicked men while remaining holy and unblemished.

6. Divine Providence:

   • The book underscores God's meticulous governance, illustrating that every event occurs according to His divine will—even if it involves the wicked.

7. Repentance and Change:

   • Objections are raised regarding the changes in God's will as described in scripture, and these are addressed as being expressions adapted to human understanding.

8. The Role of Evil Spirits:

   • While God can use those spirits for His purposes, it in no way implicates Him in their evil actions.

9. Conclusion:

   • Ultimately, Calvin emphasizes that while acknowledging human frailty and susceptibility to evil, the faithful must rest in the assurance of God's sovereignty and providence.

God's Reflection in Creation

Calvin discusses how all aspects of creation reflect God's glory and wisdom. The magnificence of the universe serves as a witness to His eternal power and divine nature. Furthermore, man's innate capability of reasoning leads him to the understanding of God's existence and governance.

Keyword

• Knowledge of God
• Knowledge of Man
• Creation
• Divine Image
• Free Will
• Providence
• Sovereignty
• Righteousness
• Repentance
• Evil Spirits

FAQ

1. What is the primary focus of Book One of Calvin's "Institutes"?

   • The primary focus is on the knowledge of God the Creator, particularly as manifest in the creation of man.

2. How does Calvin define the relationship between the knowledge of God and the knowledge of man?

   • Calvin regards them as intimately connected; true wisdom consists of both. A clear understanding of God allows for a proper understanding of ourselves.

3. What does Calvin assert about the nature of God?

   • He argues against the impiety of attributing visible forms to God, affirming that God should be supremely worshiped and remains distinct in His unity.

4. What role do angels play in Calvin’s theological framework?

   • Angels serve as ministers of God, executing His commands and supporting His providential governance of the world.

5. How does Calvin address the question of Divine Providence?

   • Calvin maintains that God's providence is meticulous and direct, overseeing all events—good or evil—without compromising His holiness and purity.

6. What is Calvin’s stance on the human condition post-Fall?

   • He emphasizes that while man retains some knowledge of God, original sin hampers his ability to choose good freely and leads to a corruption of that divine image initially bestowed upon him.

7. Does Calvin believe in free will?

   • Yes, he acknowledges free will but asserts that it is corrupted by sin, making it challenging for individuals to choose good autonomously.

8. What implications does Calvin suggest arise from understanding God’s providence?

   • Understanding God's providence offers comfort and security, urging the faithful to trust that all things are controlled by God's righteous ordination.