Reformed Protestantism
1509-1564 · Geneva, France, and the Reformed churches
John Calvin was a second-generation reformer whose influence came through preaching, ecclesial discipline, biblical commentary, and theological synthesis. His Institutes of the Christian Religion became one of the defining works of Reformed theology, arranging Protestant doctrine around knowledge of God, redemption in Christ, participation in grace, and the outward means by which God gathers the church.
Calvin opens the Institutes by joining the knowledge of God to the knowledge of ourselves. The work then develops creation, Scripture, providence, idolatry, and the doctrine of the Trinity.
A representative Reformed treatment of faith, showing Calvin's concern that Christ's benefits are received through the Spirit and apprehended by faith.
Calvin's developed account of justification by faith, where he defines the term, distinguishes it from works-righteousness, and frames it around union with Christ.
Calvin's doctrine of the visible church and sacraments, showing that Reformed theology includes ecclesiology and sacramental order, not only individual doctrine.