On the Christian Life

New Translation of John Calvin's Classic Work Explores What It Means to Live the Christian Life

For centuries, Christians have read John Calvin's On the Christian Life to answer a fundamental question: What does it mean to live faithfully as a Christian? This fresh translation of what is often referred to as Calvin's "Golden Booklet" features an all-new introduction, robust citations, and explanatory footnotes—introducing a new generation of listeners to a classic work of Christian spirituality.

In the book—a portion of the Reformer's magnum opus, Institutes of the Christian Religion—Calvin suggests that a deep understanding of theology is worthless if the gospel has yet to "penetrate into the most intimate affection of the heart." Touching on essential themes like self-denial, submission to God, bearing one's cross, enduring suffering for the sake of righteousness, and meditating on the life to come, this accessible work will help believers reflect on their lives as Christians and lean on the grace of Jesus in everyday life.

A Brand-New Translation: Translated from the original Latin edition by Calvin scholar Raymond A. Blacketer—making this classic work more accessible to modern listeners than ever before A Fresh Introduction: Includes an all-new introduction by editor Anthony N. S. Lane, professor of historical doctrine at the London School of Theology Helpful Resources: Includes robust source citations and explanatory footnotes to help pastors, students, scholars, and everyday Christians better understand Calvin's words and context Explores the Christian Life: Addresses themes including self-denial, taking up one's cross, submitting to God, and suffering for the sake of righteousness

1. Opening Credits
2. Introduction by Anthony N. S. Lane
3. Book 3: How We Obtain the Grace of Christ | The Benefits That Come to Us and the Fruits that Follow from That Grace
4. Chapter 6: The Life of a Christian
5. Chapter 7: The Sum of the Christian Life
6. Chapter 8: Bearing the Cross | An Aspect of Self-Denial
7. Chapter 9: Meditation on the Future Life
8. Chapter 10: How We Must Use the Present Life and Its Means of Support
9. Closing Credits

John Calvin

John Calvin, a French Reformer, pastor, and theologian, is widely regarded as one of the greatest figures of the Protestant Reformation. Alongside Martin Luther and Huldrych Zwingli, Calvin played a pivotal role in shaping the movement. His most notable work, the Institutes of the Christian Religion, not only synthesized the diverse perspectives of Protestant sects but also became an anchor of Protestant theology.

Calvin's impact as a Reformer stemmed from his ability to systematize the Protestant vision by drawing upon the teachings of Luther, Zwingli, and other prominent figures.

Calvin, eventually, became the most influential figure in the Reformation movement, to the point where Protestants were often called Calvinists. The Separatists in England, who were originally Calvinists, objected to the Anglican Church and brought Calvinism to America, establishing Plymouth Colony in 1621. Consequently, Calvinism emerged as the leading Christian doctrine in New England, exerting considerable influence throughout the early years of the United States and even to this present day.