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Crucified and Risen: sermons on the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ
To call the arrest, trial, scourging and crucifixion of Jesus Christ a miscarriage of justice is true as far as it goes, but it does not go far enough. Christ’s death on the cross was not an accident but, as his resurrection attests, was accomplished according to the sovereign, loving will of God, by which sinners can be reconciled to the One who made them, and can pass by grace from death to life.
In this memorable set of sermons which date from 1557 to 1558, Calvin, chief pastor of the Genevan church, offers a sensitive reading of Matthew’s account of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection. The preacher’s focus, however, is not so much on the events themselves as on their significance, on what he calls the fruit and efficacy of Christ’s redemptive work. What, in practical terms, is the import of the Easter message for the life of faith? Calvin’s answer has vital implications not only for what we believe but for the way we live, serve, worship and pray.
Newly translated from the French of 1558 by Robert White.
‘If we seek for salvation, the name of Jesus alone teaches us that it is in him. … If we desire the gifts of the Holy Spirit, we will find them in his anointing. If we are looking for strength, we have it in his lordship…If we ask for redemption, his passion provides it. In his condemnation we have our absolution. If we want pardon for sin’s curse, that gift lies in his cross. Atonement we have in his sacrifice and cleansing in his blood. Our reconciliation was effected by his descent into hell; the mortification of our flesh lies in his burial, and newness of life in his resurrection, through which we also have the hope of immortality.’ — JOHN CALVIN
In this memorable set of sermons which date from 1557 to 1558, Calvin, chief pastor of the Genevan church, offers a sensitive reading of Matthew’s account of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection. The preacher’s focus, however, is not so much on the events themselves as on their significance, on what he calls the fruit and efficacy of Christ’s redemptive work. What, in practical terms, is the import of the Easter message for the life of faith? Calvin’s answer has vital implications not only for what we believe but for the way we live, serve, worship and pray.
Newly translated from the French of 1558 by Robert White.
‘If we seek for salvation, the name of Jesus alone teaches us that it is in him. … If we desire the gifts of the Holy Spirit, we will find them in his anointing. If we are looking for strength, we have it in his lordship…If we ask for redemption, his passion provides it. In his condemnation we have our absolution. If we want pardon for sin’s curse, that gift lies in his cross. Atonement we have in his sacrifice and cleansing in his blood. Our reconciliation was effected by his descent into hell; the mortification of our flesh lies in his burial, and newness of life in his resurrection, through which we also have the hope of immortality.’ — JOHN CALVIN
209 pages, Hardcover
Published February 24, 2020
2 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
John Calvin
1,700 books540 followersFrench-Swiss theologian John Calvin broke with the Roman Catholic Church in 1533 and as Protestant set forth his tenets, known today, in
Institutes of the Christian Religion
(1536).
The religious doctrines of John Calvin emphasize the omnipotence of God, whose grace alone saves the elect.
* Jehan Cauvin
* Iohannes Calvinus (Latin)
* Jean Calvin (French)
Originally trained as a humanist lawyer around 1530, he went on to serve as a principal figure in the Reformation. He developed the system later called Calvinism.
After tensions provoked a violent uprising, Calvin fled to Basel and published the first edition of his seminal work. In that year of 1536, William Farel invited Calvin to help reform in Geneva. The city council resisted the implementation of ideas of Calvin and Farel and expelled both men. At the invitation of Martin Bucer, Calvin proceeded to Strasbourg as the minister of refugees. He continued to support the reform movement in Geneva, and people eventually invited him back to lead. Following return, he introduced new forms of government and liturgy. Following an influx of supportive refugees, new elections to the city council forced out opponents of Calvin. Calvin spent his final years, promoting the Reformation in Geneva and throughout Europe.
Calvin tirelessly wrote polemics and apologia. He also exchanged cordial and supportive letters with many reformers, including Philipp Melanchthon and Heinrich Bullinger. In addition, he wrote commentaries on most books of the Bible as well as treatises and confessional documents and regularly gave sermons throughout the week in Geneva. The Augustinian tradition influenced and led Calvin to expound the doctrine of predestination and the absolute sovereignty of God in salvation.
Calvin's writing and preaching provided the seeds for the branch of Protestantism that bears his name. His views live on chiefly in Presbyterian and Reformed denominations, which have spread throughout the world. Calvin's thought exerted considerable influence over major figures and entire movements, such as Puritanism, and some scholars argue that his ideas contributed to the rise of capitalism, individualism, and representative democracy in the west.
The religious doctrines of John Calvin emphasize the omnipotence of God, whose grace alone saves the elect.
* Jehan Cauvin
* Iohannes Calvinus (Latin)
* Jean Calvin (French)
Originally trained as a humanist lawyer around 1530, he went on to serve as a principal figure in the Reformation. He developed the system later called Calvinism.
After tensions provoked a violent uprising, Calvin fled to Basel and published the first edition of his seminal work. In that year of 1536, William Farel invited Calvin to help reform in Geneva. The city council resisted the implementation of ideas of Calvin and Farel and expelled both men. At the invitation of Martin Bucer, Calvin proceeded to Strasbourg as the minister of refugees. He continued to support the reform movement in Geneva, and people eventually invited him back to lead. Following return, he introduced new forms of government and liturgy. Following an influx of supportive refugees, new elections to the city council forced out opponents of Calvin. Calvin spent his final years, promoting the Reformation in Geneva and throughout Europe.
Calvin tirelessly wrote polemics and apologia. He also exchanged cordial and supportive letters with many reformers, including Philipp Melanchthon and Heinrich Bullinger. In addition, he wrote commentaries on most books of the Bible as well as treatises and confessional documents and regularly gave sermons throughout the week in Geneva. The Augustinian tradition influenced and led Calvin to expound the doctrine of predestination and the absolute sovereignty of God in salvation.
Calvin's writing and preaching provided the seeds for the branch of Protestantism that bears his name. His views live on chiefly in Presbyterian and Reformed denominations, which have spread throughout the world. Calvin's thought exerted considerable influence over major figures and entire movements, such as Puritanism, and some scholars argue that his ideas contributed to the rise of capitalism, individualism, and representative democracy in the west.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 27, 2025
A beautiful translation. Robert White has done magnificent work here, and the material itself is so useful for sermon prep, Bible study, and personal devotion. I highly recommend it.
April 5, 2021
Fantastic. Wonderful companion during Lent, Holy Week, Easter, and Ascension.
January 2, 2021
What was it like to sit under the preaching of John Calvin? In Crucified and Risen, Banner of Truth presents a collection of John Calvin’s sermons on the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. Newly translated from the French of 1558 by Robert White, these sermons on Matthew 26-28 are now available to be read in a beautiful single volume.
This book helped me see a more pastoral side of Calvin, as he often addresses his audience speaking in terms of “us” and “we.” Calvin’s words are often striking, such as when he speaks about sin, saying even infants cannot fail to be “small serpents full of poison, malice and contempt.” He paints a picture of Jesus as being fully human, for weakness should be found in him, but this does not diminish his divine majesty.
Sovereign Grace
Calvin makes it clear that it is only by God’s sovereign grace that our faith is awakened and able to endure. When speaking of the two criminals hanging on their crosses next to Christ, he questions how it can be that one is blind to God’s glory while the other has eyes to see. The answer is that it is only by God’s mercy, and we should see ourselves as receiving it in the same way.
I was struck by how often and easily Calvin cross-references other passages. It is usually in a passing comment – he doesn’t take much time to explain what he is referring to. It is clear that he sees the Bible as a cohesive whole.
The Lordship of Christ
It is also noted how Calvin cares for his congregation to understand the text. When speaking of darkness from the sixth to ninth hour, Calvin goes on an elaborate path to explain why time is worded this way. This is just an example of his grasp of the text, and his desire for his congregation to trust it as God’s Word.
It seems that the Lordship of Christ was always championed. He is so sure of it, that he calls upon the Caiphas’ of his day to “pollute the air with their vile, accursed blasphemies!” His confidence in this allows Calvin to be patient, humble, and allow the Lord to defend his own great name.
Sharp Observations, Astute Insight
Interestingly, Calvin chooses to combine Judas’ betrayal with Peter’s denial. He tackles them together in one sermon, comparing and contrasting the two men. Calvin likes to point out lessons to learn from the text, and he makes what seems like the most to see in this sermon.
Calvin’s observations and insights remain sharp throughout the book. As he gets toward the resurrection, he shows how Nicodemus became a true disciple. He explains how the water and blood from Jesus’ side point to the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. And when he finally preaches on the resurrection, he shares details that proclaim Christ’s majesty, beauty, and glory.
Invigorating and Encouraging
At the forefront of Calvin’s mind, was the spiritual warfare that is always raging on. He is not afraid to speak of Satan, warning of his schemes. But he does not hesitate to speak of God’s total power, authority, and control. It is always clear that Christ is champion and king.
I took my time reading this book, and it was something special to spend consecutive evenings with my friend, John Calvin. To hear him speak on Calvary gave strength to my soul. It was invigorating and encouraging. It felt like I had a true comrade in Christ. And he is one that I can return to again and again.
I received a media copy of the Crucified and Risen and this is my honest review.
This book helped me see a more pastoral side of Calvin, as he often addresses his audience speaking in terms of “us” and “we.” Calvin’s words are often striking, such as when he speaks about sin, saying even infants cannot fail to be “small serpents full of poison, malice and contempt.” He paints a picture of Jesus as being fully human, for weakness should be found in him, but this does not diminish his divine majesty.
Sovereign Grace
Calvin makes it clear that it is only by God’s sovereign grace that our faith is awakened and able to endure. When speaking of the two criminals hanging on their crosses next to Christ, he questions how it can be that one is blind to God’s glory while the other has eyes to see. The answer is that it is only by God’s mercy, and we should see ourselves as receiving it in the same way.
I was struck by how often and easily Calvin cross-references other passages. It is usually in a passing comment – he doesn’t take much time to explain what he is referring to. It is clear that he sees the Bible as a cohesive whole.
The Lordship of Christ
It is also noted how Calvin cares for his congregation to understand the text. When speaking of darkness from the sixth to ninth hour, Calvin goes on an elaborate path to explain why time is worded this way. This is just an example of his grasp of the text, and his desire for his congregation to trust it as God’s Word.
It seems that the Lordship of Christ was always championed. He is so sure of it, that he calls upon the Caiphas’ of his day to “pollute the air with their vile, accursed blasphemies!” His confidence in this allows Calvin to be patient, humble, and allow the Lord to defend his own great name.
Sharp Observations, Astute Insight
Interestingly, Calvin chooses to combine Judas’ betrayal with Peter’s denial. He tackles them together in one sermon, comparing and contrasting the two men. Calvin likes to point out lessons to learn from the text, and he makes what seems like the most to see in this sermon.
Calvin’s observations and insights remain sharp throughout the book. As he gets toward the resurrection, he shows how Nicodemus became a true disciple. He explains how the water and blood from Jesus’ side point to the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. And when he finally preaches on the resurrection, he shares details that proclaim Christ’s majesty, beauty, and glory.
Invigorating and Encouraging
At the forefront of Calvin’s mind, was the spiritual warfare that is always raging on. He is not afraid to speak of Satan, warning of his schemes. But he does not hesitate to speak of God’s total power, authority, and control. It is always clear that Christ is champion and king.
I took my time reading this book, and it was something special to spend consecutive evenings with my friend, John Calvin. To hear him speak on Calvary gave strength to my soul. It was invigorating and encouraging. It felt like I had a true comrade in Christ. And he is one that I can return to again and again.
I received a media copy of the Crucified and Risen and this is my honest review.
June 11, 2021
I have come over the years to love Calvin's sermons more and more. This was no exception. He has some wonderful paragraphs about justification by faith and as always he takes to Jesus who died and rose again so we might be redeemed.
July 17, 2025
I think many people have a misconception that John Calvin was some stern, heartless thologian and neglect to read him as a result. If only they knew just how deeply pastoral and practical he actually was. This collection of his sermons on the death, resurrection, and ascention of Christ are as approachable as they are edifying.
February 4, 2021
These expositional sermons by John Calvin are full of instruction and encouragement.
October 26, 2025
These sermons from Calvin were wonderful!
I’ve been devotionally reading his sermons for about over a year now during the school year and they always are such a blessing to me. In this volume, Dr Robert White has translated the sermons from Matt 26-28 with a sermon on the ascension in Acts in the back. Also, some public prayers from Calvin’s ministry in Geneva are included. Calvin’s sermons here are so Christ focused and they zoom in on the great promises fulfilled by Christ and also our being united with Christ in all of his suffering. There is also included in the sermons beautiful pastoral guidance found in the sufferings of Christ that Calvin applies to the French Protestant refugees who had just fled persecution. His applications hit the heart in such vivid ways and he takes the great theological doctrines and paints such beautiful pictures with them for his congregation. Having these sermons is such a gem. The most valuable thing I can say about these sermons is that I came to love the Lord Jesus more and more each morning as I devotionally read them and this is why I recommend them to all.
I’m excited to go through Calvin’s sermons on Acts 1-7 next. This whole series from Banner of Truth is of immense value. 5/5
“Let us learn, therefore, that when we are assailed by death, Jesus Christ has drawn the sting which could have mortally pierced us to the heart; that death can no longer harm us, and that when our Lord Jesus yielded up his soul to the Father, it was not only that he might preserve himself, but to ensure that our souls should be preserved by virtue of his prayer, provided we turn for help to him under whose protection we cannot perish, as he himself said (John 10:28)..
Here, then, is the triumph of which we have spoken, and which already has done us great good. Our Lord shows us how precious is his death by turning directly to God his Father, that he might lead us to him and point out the way. The most essential thing, however, is that we understand the fruit which comes to us from his death, since he has torn up the bond which stood against us (Col. 2:14), and has made full satisfaction for our sins, enabling us to come before God his Father, no longer subject to death's injury and evil. And although we see in ourselves much which might alarm us and make us conscious of our poverty and wretchedness, let us nevertheless glory in him who humbled himself for us, in order to raise us up to him.
Thus, although while he hung on the cross he was an object of shame to men, God willed that by the lips of Pilate he should be proclaimed king. So while the world may revile his kingdom, let us not cease to make it our ground for boasting; and although, with him as our leader, we may suffer abuse, we have reason to rejoice. Our lot will be blessed indeed, because all the miseries, afflictions and disgrace that we bear are more honourable to God and more precious in his sight than all the sceptres, splendours and dignities which are so dear to men.
This, then, is how we must come to our Lord Jesus Christ and hold fast to him. Let us recognize the riches he brings to us. Above all, as he guides and directs us by his gospel, let us refuse all the comforts and ease of this world, so that we even come to hate them if they turn us from the proper path. In sum, may the Lord Jesus Christ have the honour which is his due, and may we ourselves not be like reeds which sway in every wind. Instead, may we be rooted in him, calling upon God and triumphing both in life and death, for the victory is already his. As long as we are in this world let us do him the honour of acknowledging that he alone can aid and uphold us. This he will do if we make him our refuge. Nor will he do it in any ordinary way, but miraculously; for although we may be plunged into deepest death, it is his office to rescue us, and to lead us to the heavenly inheritance which he has purchased for us.”
John Calvin, Sermon on Matthew 27:45-54, “It Is Finished”
I’ve been devotionally reading his sermons for about over a year now during the school year and they always are such a blessing to me. In this volume, Dr Robert White has translated the sermons from Matt 26-28 with a sermon on the ascension in Acts in the back. Also, some public prayers from Calvin’s ministry in Geneva are included. Calvin’s sermons here are so Christ focused and they zoom in on the great promises fulfilled by Christ and also our being united with Christ in all of his suffering. There is also included in the sermons beautiful pastoral guidance found in the sufferings of Christ that Calvin applies to the French Protestant refugees who had just fled persecution. His applications hit the heart in such vivid ways and he takes the great theological doctrines and paints such beautiful pictures with them for his congregation. Having these sermons is such a gem. The most valuable thing I can say about these sermons is that I came to love the Lord Jesus more and more each morning as I devotionally read them and this is why I recommend them to all.
I’m excited to go through Calvin’s sermons on Acts 1-7 next. This whole series from Banner of Truth is of immense value. 5/5
“Let us learn, therefore, that when we are assailed by death, Jesus Christ has drawn the sting which could have mortally pierced us to the heart; that death can no longer harm us, and that when our Lord Jesus yielded up his soul to the Father, it was not only that he might preserve himself, but to ensure that our souls should be preserved by virtue of his prayer, provided we turn for help to him under whose protection we cannot perish, as he himself said (John 10:28)..
Here, then, is the triumph of which we have spoken, and which already has done us great good. Our Lord shows us how precious is his death by turning directly to God his Father, that he might lead us to him and point out the way. The most essential thing, however, is that we understand the fruit which comes to us from his death, since he has torn up the bond which stood against us (Col. 2:14), and has made full satisfaction for our sins, enabling us to come before God his Father, no longer subject to death's injury and evil. And although we see in ourselves much which might alarm us and make us conscious of our poverty and wretchedness, let us nevertheless glory in him who humbled himself for us, in order to raise us up to him.
Thus, although while he hung on the cross he was an object of shame to men, God willed that by the lips of Pilate he should be proclaimed king. So while the world may revile his kingdom, let us not cease to make it our ground for boasting; and although, with him as our leader, we may suffer abuse, we have reason to rejoice. Our lot will be blessed indeed, because all the miseries, afflictions and disgrace that we bear are more honourable to God and more precious in his sight than all the sceptres, splendours and dignities which are so dear to men.
This, then, is how we must come to our Lord Jesus Christ and hold fast to him. Let us recognize the riches he brings to us. Above all, as he guides and directs us by his gospel, let us refuse all the comforts and ease of this world, so that we even come to hate them if they turn us from the proper path. In sum, may the Lord Jesus Christ have the honour which is his due, and may we ourselves not be like reeds which sway in every wind. Instead, may we be rooted in him, calling upon God and triumphing both in life and death, for the victory is already his. As long as we are in this world let us do him the honour of acknowledging that he alone can aid and uphold us. This he will do if we make him our refuge. Nor will he do it in any ordinary way, but miraculously; for although we may be plunged into deepest death, it is his office to rescue us, and to lead us to the heavenly inheritance which he has purchased for us.”
John Calvin, Sermon on Matthew 27:45-54, “It Is Finished”
May 10, 2021
Crucified and Risen ~ John Calvin
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5
What an Excellent book, refreshing sermons that have such practical application and well as leaving you in awe of God.
John Calvin used to preach to his church through whole books at a time, some of these books could take years to get through and others would be months of they were very short books. A church council in March of 1544 required preachers to preach the passion throughout the Holy Week, and the evidence is that the reformer was happy to comply. During this time Calvin stopped preaching through the book he was on and he preached nine sermons from the book of Matthew.
Calvin begins his Easter series with Jesus vigil in the garden of Gethsemane (Matt 26:36-46), and each time would preach right through to the Ascension which Calvin said was an article of our faith and necessary for our salvation.
Let me say that these sermons are the best I have ever read, John Calvin has now become my favourite Preacher due to his wonderful knowledge that he articulates in such a wonderful way, you get the fear of God from His sermons mixed with the love of God for sinners and practical application for the hearer. Excellent sermons and whoever hears them will be blessed.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5
What an Excellent book, refreshing sermons that have such practical application and well as leaving you in awe of God.
John Calvin used to preach to his church through whole books at a time, some of these books could take years to get through and others would be months of they were very short books. A church council in March of 1544 required preachers to preach the passion throughout the Holy Week, and the evidence is that the reformer was happy to comply. During this time Calvin stopped preaching through the book he was on and he preached nine sermons from the book of Matthew.
Calvin begins his Easter series with Jesus vigil in the garden of Gethsemane (Matt 26:36-46), and each time would preach right through to the Ascension which Calvin said was an article of our faith and necessary for our salvation.
Let me say that these sermons are the best I have ever read, John Calvin has now become my favourite Preacher due to his wonderful knowledge that he articulates in such a wonderful way, you get the fear of God from His sermons mixed with the love of God for sinners and practical application for the hearer. Excellent sermons and whoever hears them will be blessed.
August 2, 2020
Crucified and Risen: Sermons on the Death, Resurrection, and Ascension of Christ by John Calvin is the latest translation of Calvin’s sermons published by Banner of Truth.
This is a new translation from the 1558 edition of this work containing nine sermons that moves the reader from the Garden through the Resurrection and the with a new, appended sermon on the Ascension.
If you have only read Calvin’s commentaries or his theological works, his sermons are quite different. They are much more pastoral and warmer, with clear application. These sermons as very readable and well worth your time.
Sit under one of the great reformers and hear him preach about Holy Week and the Ascension.
The book contains a scripture index, a subject index, and a list of other Calvin titles from the Banner.
[This review appears on my blog, my YouTube channel, Amazon.com, and Goodreads.com.]
This is a new translation from the 1558 edition of this work containing nine sermons that moves the reader from the Garden through the Resurrection and the with a new, appended sermon on the Ascension.
If you have only read Calvin’s commentaries or his theological works, his sermons are quite different. They are much more pastoral and warmer, with clear application. These sermons as very readable and well worth your time.
Sit under one of the great reformers and hear him preach about Holy Week and the Ascension.
The book contains a scripture index, a subject index, and a list of other Calvin titles from the Banner.
[This review appears on my blog, my YouTube channel, Amazon.com, and Goodreads.com.]
December 18, 2022
This might have been an even more appropriate read for the Easter season, but Calvin's sermons never fail to edify, no matter the season or occasion. His exposition of the text is unfailingly marked with a faithful, patient, holy joy that's deeply contagious and encouraging. Highly recommended.
December 26, 2020
Wonderful expositions of the final days of Christ’s ministry on the earth. Calvin pours over the text and lifts up Christ in every thought.
January 13, 2022
A nice volume of excellent sermons.
March 27, 2022
Really love Calvin's sermons
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews