Tracts and Letters (Volume 7) by John Calvin (Available from Amazon or free here) - Conclude the Appendix.
This week we finish reading the Appendix of further letters from Calvin (although two are forgeries).
We read letters from 1552, 1553, 1555 and 1558 addressed to Ambrose Blaurer, Francis Dryander, Farel, Christopher Piperin, Count Tarnow, Godfrey Varaglia and Macar.
We hear of scattered news of the advancement of the gospel in Europe along with persecution of those who advance it.
But most interesting is the inclusion at the end of the Appendix. Here we are given translations of two forged letters that have been used as evidence to slander the Reformer. Beveridge, who has walked us graciously walked us through these seven volumes so well, does not cease to fail us here. He provides us with an extended note explaining why the letters are clear forgeries.
The fact that we made it has given me impetus to continue doing huge works in the club, such as our next series in the Early Church Fathers (some of you may think it a bit odd to read through the Fathers, but if you've kept up with me through Calvin's tracts and letters for the last two years, you would know that the Fathers had a profound influence on him. I think Calvin would encourage us to achieve our goal).
Anyway, today I was particularly struck by this quote from Calvin: 'But it is better to suffer a hundred deaths, rather than swerve a hair's breadth from the straight line.'
And I think we have seen Calvin attempt to fulfil such a motto in these letters. If only we would do the same.
Next week's reading
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
2 comments:
Finishing those was a bit like saying goodbye to an old friend! What an array of correspondence Calvin kept up with some of the most influencial and important men of his times.
Two things struck me throughout these volumes:
1) The amazing providence and mercy of God in raising up such men in abundance from all areas of Europe for the health and revival of His Church.
2) That although the Reformation can appear a "golden age" it was still peopled by sinful men, who in spite of their best intentions had differences which brought turmoil and strife.
Both were very edifying to me to give me hope that God will once again visit His bride with revival and renewal, and that there really will be no perfect church this side of heaven.
May God grant me patience to wait for the one, and humility to live peacably with the other.
Great comment! I heartily agree.
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