This article is a good reminder of what Calvinism is, & it at least with me, achieves your goal of eliciting empathy for Calvin's dilemma, as well as that of reformed theologians today.
I was enlightened by your blog on Calvin and Calvinism. One thing I have been curious about is his relationship with the city of Geneva. I understand he had great authority over the administration of the city, including the severe punishment of heretics using the power of the city. Can you suggest any good resources for my further exploration of what seems like a Genevan theocracy?
Thanks, Richard! You ask a good question. I've read varying opinions on the degree to which Calvin wielded political authority in Geneva. I think most scholars are agreed that he had significant influence, but there's some debate as to just how much actual political authority he enjoyed. Of course, sometimes the difference of opinion can be traced to a particular scholar's theological commitments (i.e., whether they're Calvinist/non-Calvinist themselves). As for a good resource, I'm not sure what I can recommend! Calvin is outside my main area of study - and anything I've picked up has just been in passing, and I can't remember where I've come across a discussion of the topic (and didn't seem to take any notes on it, since it wasn't directly relevant to my research). But if I track down anything, I'll let you know.
This article is a good reminder of what Calvinism is, & it at least with me, achieves your goal of eliciting empathy for Calvin's dilemma, as well as that of reformed theologians today.
Deep thinking. Hmmmm!
Fire!
I was enlightened by your blog on Calvin and Calvinism. One thing I have been curious about is his relationship with the city of Geneva. I understand he had great authority over the administration of the city, including the severe punishment of heretics using the power of the city. Can you suggest any good resources for my further exploration of what seems like a Genevan theocracy?
This might be a decent starting point, though just be aware that the scholar is himself a Calvinist: https://www.modernreformation.org/resources/articles/was-geneva-a-theocracy
Thanks, Richard! You ask a good question. I've read varying opinions on the degree to which Calvin wielded political authority in Geneva. I think most scholars are agreed that he had significant influence, but there's some debate as to just how much actual political authority he enjoyed. Of course, sometimes the difference of opinion can be traced to a particular scholar's theological commitments (i.e., whether they're Calvinist/non-Calvinist themselves). As for a good resource, I'm not sure what I can recommend! Calvin is outside my main area of study - and anything I've picked up has just been in passing, and I can't remember where I've come across a discussion of the topic (and didn't seem to take any notes on it, since it wasn't directly relevant to my research). But if I track down anything, I'll let you know.
Thanks, Shawn. More of an answer than I anticipated. Blessings in your new parish.
Dick m