Customer Reviews

John Calvin: Steward of God's Covenant: Selected Writings

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I--Marilynne Robinson--wrote the introduction to this collection. So I wish to assure readers that the account offered above of the author, John Calvin, as promoting a "theocratic state," is not accurate. Indeed, both of the doctrines for which he is said here to be famous are in fact cliches about him that discourage interest in his life and writing. The back cover of the book itself might be consulted for a more useful characterization of Calvin. I have given the book five stars because I think it deserves it, and more importantly because Amazon will not allow me to post a comment unless I rate it.

The most wondous thing about this excellent book is Marilynne Robinson's Preface, which is a breathtaking work of manifest genius.

The collection of Calvin's writings is superb, starting with his magnificent epistle to Charles V, setting forth, warmly and accessibly, almost in outline form, the primary positions of the nascent Reformation (and including Calvin's famous insistence "that all things be done decently and in order"), that follows a very fine (because it is simple and illuminating) chronology of Calvin's life, and then includes an almost perfect selection from his Institutes, Commentaries, and prayers and sermons (which are impossible to find online).

The selection of Calvin's writings in this book is execellent (and not overwhelming, the entire book being only 417 pages including a bibliography), but the best feature in my opinion is Marilynne Robinson's *Preface*, which is what turned me on to Calvin entirely. It is a magnificent piece of writing, and the most superb introduction to Calvin anywhere and any time (more of Marilynne Robinson's brilliant excursus on Calvin and Calvinism can be found in two chapters of her essay collection "The Death of Adam"), and is MUST READ for anyone intersted in Calvin, from the most rigid Protestant to the most secular historian or liberal theologian.

Seriously -- and joyfully -- anyone interested in Calvin, or Reformed theology (or Marilynne Robinson) needs to read this lovely volume. Please.