Calvin and the Struggle with Sin

John Calvin is much maligned. For example, I have been reading Paul Johnson, the English historian. I like most of his opinions but he seems to have a grudge against Calvin whom he caricatures as intolerant. No doubt Servetus would have agreed with Johnson, but I expected a more nuanced evaluation even though Johnson is a Catholic (if I am not mistaken).

As a Baptist I disagree with some of Calvin’s ideas but I suspect that much of the negative reaction has to do with the fact that Calvin played a crucial role in the recovery of Biblical theology.

Calvin wrote primarily as a pastor. As a pastor he had a great concern for the growth of his flock. In a section of the Institutes dealing with baptism he addresses the constant struggle with sin that Christians experience. I see a certain pastoral tenderness shining through his words:

For so long as we live cooped up in the prison of our body, traces of sin will dwell in us; but if we faithfully hold fast to the promise of given us by God in baptism, they shall not dominate or rule.

But let no one deceive himself, let no one cajole himself in his sinfulness, when he hears that sin dwells in us. When we speak thus it is not that those who otherwise are all too prone to sin should slumber untroubled in their sins, but only that those who are disturbed and pricked by their own flesh should not faint and be discouraged. Let them rather think that they are still on their way, and believe that they have made good progress when they feel that a bit is being taken from their lust each day, until they reach their destination, that is, the final death of their flesh, which shall be accomplished in the close of this mortal life. Meanwhile, let them not cease to struggle manfully, to have courage for the onward way, and to spur on to full victory. For the fact that, after long striving, they see no little difficulty remaining ought to sharpen their efforts all the more.

Comments

[Chris]

I am always reminded of the comment by my Church History prof, John Hannah, at Dallas: When I get to heaven, I will be surprised by who IS there, who is NOT there, and . . . that I AM there! It will be great to chat with John, Martin, C.S., and J.R.R. someday! (Of course, then we will ALL be Baptists, so there won't be much to talk about!) ;-) Chris