John Calvin as Teacher, Pastor, and Theologian: The Shape of His Writings and Thought (Paperback)

~ Randall Zachman (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

John Calvin has been the subject of numerous studies, but most have focused on one aspect of his thought or a limited selection of his writings. This study of Calvin adopts a uniquely holistic approach. Randall Zachman begins with a brief biography and considers Calvin's own understanding of his ministry as a teacher and pastor. From this perspective, he surveys Calvin's writings and their place in the work of reforming the church--both through the training of clergy and the instruction of the laity. Zachman then considers Calvin as a theologian. In contrast to Martin Luther, Calvin sought to balance the verbal proclamation of the Word with an emphasis on the visible manifestation of God--both in creation and in Christ. This study will be of great interest to Reformed clergy and to students of the Reformation and Calvinism.

About the Author

Randall C. Zachman (Ph.D., University of Chicago) is associate professor of Reformation studies at the University of Notre Dame. He is also the author of The Assurance of Faith: Conscience in the Theology of Martin Luther and John Calvin.

Product Details

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Baker Academic (May 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 080103129X
• ISBN-13: 978-0801031298
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #340,226 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Reformed Pastor, April 14, 2008

By	Patrick R. Novak (Santa Clara, CA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Zachman does a masterful job of illustrating how Calvin went about the task of "teaching every single man, woman, and child how to read Scripture for themselves, so that they migh apply its genuine meaning to every aspect of their lives" (p. 7; he also demonstrates just how profound was Calvin's theological thought. Calvin exemplified the model of a Reformed Pastor in his desire to see his people formed in the way of Christ as well as "doing theology" in the pastor's study. In an age of "seeker sensitive" churches and man/woman centered lifestyles, Calvin stands out as a beacon for pastors seeking to go deeper. Zachman is to be lauded for presenting Calvin in a clear and accessible manner.

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Great Book on a Great Theologian, March 30, 2007

By	John D. White "camsterdad" (Cayce, South Carolina United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Zachman is to be congratulated for his fine book on John Calvin. It was a pleasure to read and the author clearly knows his material. As a introduction to Calvin in his context and the purpose for his ministry and writing, Zachman cannot be beaten. I loved the book and thought it was a clear and wonderful contribution to understanding the Genevan Reformer, John Calvin. Zachman has left us all in his debt. Particularly those of us who are Presbyterian ministers!