The Strengths And Weaknesses Of John Calvin

Derek Mansur
Theo 420
Dr. Jordon
May 15, 2014
The Strengths and Weaknesses of John Calvin
John Calvin faced many obstacles as a second generation reformer such as the inability to obtain citizenship until 1559. He was the founder of the Reformed church which has now transcended into Christian Reformed and Presbyterian churches. While lacking the necessary power and support to emerge as quickly and strongly as past reformers. Calvin is discredited for bad scholarship, lack of originality and being viewed more so as a politician, rather than a reformer. What separated Calvin from other sixteenth-century writers was his aptitude as a thinker and wordsmith, and, above all, his absolute devotion to scripture and personal beliefs. In the public’s eye, Calvin walked and spoke with sheer reliance and conviction. Although he seemed confident to those around him, Calvin understood his weaknesses and strived for absolute perfection in his theology and devotion to not only the reformation, but ultimately God. One of the most evident fortitudes throughout his life was the acute awareness he had in his remarkable confidence in his calling and intelligence. Calvin often became menacingly prone to moments of shoddy acumen on account of his anger. Given his feats and pitfalls, Calvin was one of the most influential reformers of the sixteenth century and this can be accredited chiefly to his sense of self-realization and devotion to absolute perfection.
Despite Calvin’s social and personal efforts that lead him to success, his theology remains influential into modern times. The 95 Theses, composed by Luther was written when Calvin was at the age 8. This acted as a base for his beliefs because it acted as influence for his studies and teachings wh...

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...ore-so as a politician, rather than a reformer. What separated Calvin from other sixteenth-century writers was his aptitude as a thinker and wordsmith, and, above all, his absolute devotion to scripture and personal beliefs. In the public’s eye, Calvin walked and spoke to those around him with sheer reliance and conviction. Although he seemed confident, Calvin understood his weaknesses and often doubted himself. Calvin often became menacingly prone to moments of shoddy acumen on account of his anger, but still emerged as distinct leader. One of the most evident fortitudes throughout his life was his acute awareness, confidence in his calling and intelligence. Given his feats and pitfalls, Calvin was one of the most influential reformers of the sixteenth century and this can be accredited chiefly to his sense of self-realization and devotion to absolute perfection.