The 10th of July 2009 sees the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin. A measure of controversy surrounds the renowned Reformer, and, regrettably, much unfounded prejudice. During his lifetime he suffered the malignity of his own countrymen, and, as often befalls faithful ministers of Christ like the apostle Paul, he was ‘made the offscouring of all things’ in his own day. His memory has continued to evoke distaste and criticism - which is not surprising given that the truth he has so much come to embody is naturally repugnant to the heart of every sinner, a truth striking at the very heart of man’s enmity to God and resistance to His will and sovereign good pleasure. There were additional points of controversy surrounding the Reformer, but he is most attacked and vilified for his views on predestination, which many believe prevents a faithful and effective declaration of the gospel of saving grace to needy sinners. The address here cited serves to tackle the misconceptions which surround John Calvin the man, in addition to the practical outworking of his theology. His biblical views on predestination and God’s sovereignty in salvation did not dampen his zeal for the conversion of sinners, nor hinder him in the preaching of the gospel as some would suggest. On the contrary, he was a man of tremendous zeal and evangelistic endeavour, and that despite many painful bodily ailments and illnesses which beset him throughout his life. Wisdom is justified of her children, and this may be seen in an impartial review of Calvin’s life. Intensely devoted to his family, his flock; deeply concerned for lost sinners and for the cause of God and his truth - John Calvin, his life and teaching, remain to remind us of what God may be pleased to accomplish through weak instruments, and how the excellency of the power should be seen to be of God and not of men, and that to the praise of the glory of God’s grace alone.
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