Calvin: Faith

For unbelief is so deeply rooted in our hearts, and we are so inclined to it, that not without hard struggle is each one able to persuade himself of what all confess with the mouth: namely, that God is faithful.

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Institutes, 3.2.15 (Battles p.560)

Calvin: comfort of providence

Calvin's discussion of providence is fascinating. He is trying to deal with the same kinds of questions that anyone today would, who believes in the sovereignty of God and yet also sees cause and effect as a reality and not charade. Overall, it reinforces my growing sense that the only way I can get through the question without my brain catching fire, is to say that God is absolutely sovereign AND AT THE SAME TIME life, decisions, consequences etc are all also authentic. I'm placing it in the same category as a number of other issues, which deal with the interface between time/humanity/finite reality and God/eternity/mystery.

But here's a great thing about Calvin (apart from his freedom in calling opposers rude names and not feeling bad about it): there is in his systematics a constant pastoral aim. So here's a bit that I liked:

And since it is uncertain what will be the outcome of the business he is undertaking (except that he knows that in all things the Lord will provide for his benefit), he will aspire with zeal to that which he deems expedient for himself, as far as it can be obtained by intelligence and understanding. Yet in taking counsel he will not follow his own opinion, but will entrust and submit himself to God's wisdom, to be directed by his leading to the right goal. But his confidence will not so rely upon outward supports as to repose with assurance in them if they are present, or, if they are lacking, to tremble as if left destitute. For he will always hold his mind fixed upon God's providence alone, and not let preoccupation with present matters draw him away from steadfast contemplation of it.

Institutes, 1.17.12 (Battles p.222)
empahsis added.