Friday, July 10, 2009

Happy 500th Birthday!


Today is the 500th birthday of the great reformer John Calvin. His thoughts and writings have had a major impact on the world. As a result of his 500th birthday and the importance of his writings, I have devoted considerable time this year to studying his life and writings. I recommend you do the same. Below are some books that I have found helpful.

Works by Calvin:

  • Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion

This two volume work is a systematic theology intended to help new believers better understand their faith. I am reading through this again through out the year. A reading program is available on line entitled "Blogging the Institutes."

  • Calvin's Commentaries

This is a massive 22 volume set that includes Calvin's insights and exegetical work on most of the Bible.

  • John Calvin's Sermons on Ephesians
  • John Calvin's Sermons on Galatians

These titles are self-explanatory.

Biographies:

  • John Calvin: A Pilgrim's Life, Herman J. Selderhuis

This biography on Calvin has been my favorite so far.

  • John Calvin: and His Passion for the Majesty of God, John Piper

This is a very brief introduction.

  • Portrait of Calvin, T. H. L. Parker

This book is highly recommended by John Piper and was his first exposure to John Calvin. The Desiring God website has made a reprint available for a modest price.

  • John Calvin: Pilgrim and Pastor, W. Robert Godfrey
  • A Life of John Calvin, Alsiter E. McGrath

Additional Books about Calvin and His Works:

  • The Legacy of John Calvin, David W. Hall
  • Analysis of the Institutes of the Christian Religion of John Calvin, Ford Lewis Battles
  • A Theological Guide to Calvin's Institutes: Essays and Analysis, ed. Hall and Lillback
  • Calvin in the Public Square, David W. Hall
  • John Calvin: A Heart for Devotion, Doctrine, & Doxology, ed. Burk Parsons

Later this year I will do a summary and review of my summer reading, but for now I recommend reading some Calvin.

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