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John Calvin: For a New Reformation
More than 500 years ago, 16th-century Reformer John Calvin was born—a theologian whose teachings set the stage for reformation of the church around the world. The modern world is in continual need of his Christ-exalting doctrine and vision of the Christian life. In 20 essays by leading Reformed pastors and scholars, this primer explores Calvin’s life, teaching, and legacy for a new generation. This book is a clarion call to Christians everywhere to take seriously the ongoing need of theological reformation across the globe.
608 pages, ebook
Published November 26, 2019
17 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Derek W.H. Thomas
59 books65 followersOriginally from Wales, Dr. Derek Thomas is the John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Practical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi. After pastoring for 17 years in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Dr Thomas returned to the USA in 1996 where, in addition to his work at the seminary, he serves as the Minister of Teaching at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson.
In addition to serving in the pastorate, Derek has served as editor of the Evangelical Presbyterian, a monthly denominational magazine. A 1978 graduate of RTS, he gained a Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Lampeter, in Calvin’s preaching on the book of Job. He has written numerous books, including The Storm Breaks: Job Simply Explained, Wisdom: the Key to Living God’s Way, and God Strengthens: Ezekiel Simply Explained, Making the Most of Your Devotional Life based on the Ascent Psalms, and Praying the Savior’s Way, based on the Lord’s Prayer. Recently he published Let’s Study Revelation (Banner of Truth), Let’s Study Galatians (Banner of Truth), and Calvin’s Teaching on Job: Proclaiming the Incomprehensible God (Christian Focus). He also co-edited, Give Praise To God: A Vision for Reforming Worship (P & R).
His interests include the music of Anton Bruckner, Richard Wagner and Gustav Mahler as well as a passion for good coffee.
He has been married to his wife, Rosemary, for almost 30 years. They have two adult children, Ellen and Owen.
In addition to serving in the pastorate, Derek has served as editor of the Evangelical Presbyterian, a monthly denominational magazine. A 1978 graduate of RTS, he gained a Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Lampeter, in Calvin’s preaching on the book of Job. He has written numerous books, including The Storm Breaks: Job Simply Explained, Wisdom: the Key to Living God’s Way, and God Strengthens: Ezekiel Simply Explained, Making the Most of Your Devotional Life based on the Ascent Psalms, and Praying the Savior’s Way, based on the Lord’s Prayer. Recently he published Let’s Study Revelation (Banner of Truth), Let’s Study Galatians (Banner of Truth), and Calvin’s Teaching on Job: Proclaiming the Incomprehensible God (Christian Focus). He also co-edited, Give Praise To God: A Vision for Reforming Worship (P & R).
His interests include the music of Anton Bruckner, Richard Wagner and Gustav Mahler as well as a passion for good coffee.
He has been married to his wife, Rosemary, for almost 30 years. They have two adult children, Ellen and Owen.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 4, 2020
Over two thousand years of church history have produced a wide assortment of Christian leaders. One man who exerted an enormous amount of influence in his day was John Calvin. In recent years, theologians and pastored have revived an interest in Calvin including, A Godward Gaze: The Holy Pursuit of John Calvin by yours truly.
The most recent and comprehensive offering is an edited volume by Derek W.H. Thomas and John W. Tweeddale. This massive volume that spans over 600 pages includes contributions from well-known scholars which include the likes of Stephen Nichols, Steven Lawson, Burk Parsons, Paul Helm and others. The afterward by R.C. Sproul is a fitting conclusion from the man who should be credited for restoring an interest in Reformed theology in the twentieth-century church. Sproul’s words are especially moving and significant, since this is is last published writing before his death in 2017.
John Calvin: For a New Reformation is arranged in two parts. Part 1 explores the life and work of John Calvin. The contributors share a wealth of biographical information on Calvin including his early years, conversion, and friendships. Especially significant is the piece by Steven Lawson that summarizes the expository preaching of Calvin.
Part 2 explores the teaching of John Calvin. The contributors weigh in on several doctrinal subjects including the providence of God, the person and work of Christ, predestination, the sacraments, perseverance of the saints, and Calvin’s approach to eschatology. Edward Donnelly’s chapter, The Christian Life stands out the most. Donnelly helps readers see the pastoral heart of Calvin, which is undergirded by four central features of the Christian life: self-denial,cross—bearing, meditation on the future life, and the present life. Donnelly shows how Calvin lived an authentic and transparent Christian life, which inspired thousands in the sixteenth century and continues to inspire people in our day.
Additionally, Donnelly shows readers how Calvin lived in constant fellowship with the Lord and submitted daily to his lordship. “We are God’s,” writes Calvin. This acknowledgment was the very essence of Calvin’s Christian life. Also, Calvin was committed to mortifying idolatry and serving other people.
Over the years, I have read dozens of books about the French Reformer, John Calvin. This book is among the best. Thomas and Tweeddale should be commended for assembling such a worthy team of writers who celebrate a man who continues to wield a great deal of influence on individual lives and the church of Jesus Christ
The most recent and comprehensive offering is an edited volume by Derek W.H. Thomas and John W. Tweeddale. This massive volume that spans over 600 pages includes contributions from well-known scholars which include the likes of Stephen Nichols, Steven Lawson, Burk Parsons, Paul Helm and others. The afterward by R.C. Sproul is a fitting conclusion from the man who should be credited for restoring an interest in Reformed theology in the twentieth-century church. Sproul’s words are especially moving and significant, since this is is last published writing before his death in 2017.
John Calvin: For a New Reformation is arranged in two parts. Part 1 explores the life and work of John Calvin. The contributors share a wealth of biographical information on Calvin including his early years, conversion, and friendships. Especially significant is the piece by Steven Lawson that summarizes the expository preaching of Calvin.
Part 2 explores the teaching of John Calvin. The contributors weigh in on several doctrinal subjects including the providence of God, the person and work of Christ, predestination, the sacraments, perseverance of the saints, and Calvin’s approach to eschatology. Edward Donnelly’s chapter, The Christian Life stands out the most. Donnelly helps readers see the pastoral heart of Calvin, which is undergirded by four central features of the Christian life: self-denial,cross—bearing, meditation on the future life, and the present life. Donnelly shows how Calvin lived an authentic and transparent Christian life, which inspired thousands in the sixteenth century and continues to inspire people in our day.
Additionally, Donnelly shows readers how Calvin lived in constant fellowship with the Lord and submitted daily to his lordship. “We are God’s,” writes Calvin. This acknowledgment was the very essence of Calvin’s Christian life. Also, Calvin was committed to mortifying idolatry and serving other people.
Over the years, I have read dozens of books about the French Reformer, John Calvin. This book is among the best. Thomas and Tweeddale should be commended for assembling such a worthy team of writers who celebrate a man who continues to wield a great deal of influence on individual lives and the church of Jesus Christ
April 19, 2023
Such a well written book by so many great authors. What I would consider a beginner's guide to Calvin's "Institutes of the Christian Religion". The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was because my own brain had a hard time grasping or focusing throughout certain chapters. Not a fault of the writing or content.
November 4, 2022
Excellent book. Gave me much more appreciation for Calvin and his work. Also got me started reading the Institutes.
May 7, 2024
Reading for a second time
Initial review: Fantastic book. Seven chapters devoted to his life, thirteen to his teaching. I found the first eight chapters captivating and then it felt a bit slower (I was listening by audiobook). I was struck by the many hardships of his life yet the faithfulness he had to his ministry and his deep zeal for God. Being awed by his story and encouraged by his passion made me think how sad it is that Calvin is given a hard wrap in the minds of many: how uncharitable we can be...
Initial review: Fantastic book. Seven chapters devoted to his life, thirteen to his teaching. I found the first eight chapters captivating and then it felt a bit slower (I was listening by audiobook). I was struck by the many hardships of his life yet the faithfulness he had to his ministry and his deep zeal for God. Being awed by his story and encouraged by his passion made me think how sad it is that Calvin is given a hard wrap in the minds of many: how uncharitable we can be...
October 6, 2020
When it comes to the life and teachings of John Calvin, of course there is no shortage of books. This means that all readers inevitably have choices to make: which ones will you read? Compounding the reader’s choice is the reality that edited books with multiple contributors can often be hit or miss. More often than not the reader has a few chapters or contributors that interest them while the rest inevitably end up being neglected.
Ultimately though, the quality of the book inevitably hinges upon the passion and expertise of the contributors. The quality of the book mainly hinges upon something besides the contributors that is less appreciated by readers, however, which is the arrangement of topics. I am pleased to say that Thomas and Tweeddale have done us all a great service by giving about a third of the book to the Life of Calvin (7 chapters), and then the other two thirds to the Teaching of Calvin (13 chapters). As somebody who has imbibed and appreciated the doctrine of Calvin for some time I benefited a great deal from much of Part 2 of the book (particularly Guy Waters’ chapter on the Law of God, Derek Thomas’ chapter on Knowing God through Adversity, and Ted Donnelly’s chapter on the Christian Life).
For me, however, the area where I inevitably, as a pastor, find the most nourishment and encouragement ends up being the biographical portion of books like this. I was especially captivated by Doug Kelly’s firsthand study of the minutes of the Genevan consistory and Steve Lawson’s discussion of the pulpit ministry of Calvin. These are simply my personal highlights, and I suspect different readers will have their own preferences. I really am not exaggerating to say that this book has something for everybody. Some books feel like a bit of a chore to read; they can be a lot of work and heavy lifting. This is not one of those books. It is rich but not overbearing. When it comes to a book that you can open, read, and just know you’re going to get something rich each time, this book is currently at the top of my list. I’m grateful that we have it.
FTC Disclosure: I received an electronic review copy in exchange for an agreement to provide a written review of this book.
Ultimately though, the quality of the book inevitably hinges upon the passion and expertise of the contributors. The quality of the book mainly hinges upon something besides the contributors that is less appreciated by readers, however, which is the arrangement of topics. I am pleased to say that Thomas and Tweeddale have done us all a great service by giving about a third of the book to the Life of Calvin (7 chapters), and then the other two thirds to the Teaching of Calvin (13 chapters). As somebody who has imbibed and appreciated the doctrine of Calvin for some time I benefited a great deal from much of Part 2 of the book (particularly Guy Waters’ chapter on the Law of God, Derek Thomas’ chapter on Knowing God through Adversity, and Ted Donnelly’s chapter on the Christian Life).
For me, however, the area where I inevitably, as a pastor, find the most nourishment and encouragement ends up being the biographical portion of books like this. I was especially captivated by Doug Kelly’s firsthand study of the minutes of the Genevan consistory and Steve Lawson’s discussion of the pulpit ministry of Calvin. These are simply my personal highlights, and I suspect different readers will have their own preferences. I really am not exaggerating to say that this book has something for everybody. Some books feel like a bit of a chore to read; they can be a lot of work and heavy lifting. This is not one of those books. It is rich but not overbearing. When it comes to a book that you can open, read, and just know you’re going to get something rich each time, this book is currently at the top of my list. I’m grateful that we have it.
FTC Disclosure: I received an electronic review copy in exchange for an agreement to provide a written review of this book.
August 22, 2020
I throughly enjoyed this book. John Calvin has had a huge impact on my life and my conformity to Christ. If you want to get an actual understanding of who John Calvin is and what the Lord used him to do then this book is for you.
I will let R.C. Sproul's words say the rest.
The general ignorance that the church suffers from in church history has cost the church an accurate appreciation for how God used John Calvin. Would that the preachers of our day might learn from Calvin in his biblical exposition and in his passion for biblical truth that the church could once again experience the breakthrough of a modern Reformation. In our day, as it did in antiquity, and again in the sixteenth century, the church stands between Migdol and the sea. Behind us, pursuing us to the death, are the chariots of Pharaoh, hostile to the things of God, motivated to destroy them from the earth. In front of us stands the impassable sea. We need a Moses. We need a Calvin, who in this generation will raise his arms to the heavens, so that the Lord God Almighty will open the seas afresh that the people of God may pass through on dry ground into safety. Our debt to John Calvin is considerable. We must be mindful of his work, as God continues to use Calvin's teaching to lead the church to truth and out of the abyss of error.
I will let R.C. Sproul's words say the rest.
The general ignorance that the church suffers from in church history has cost the church an accurate appreciation for how God used John Calvin. Would that the preachers of our day might learn from Calvin in his biblical exposition and in his passion for biblical truth that the church could once again experience the breakthrough of a modern Reformation. In our day, as it did in antiquity, and again in the sixteenth century, the church stands between Migdol and the sea. Behind us, pursuing us to the death, are the chariots of Pharaoh, hostile to the things of God, motivated to destroy them from the earth. In front of us stands the impassable sea. We need a Moses. We need a Calvin, who in this generation will raise his arms to the heavens, so that the Lord God Almighty will open the seas afresh that the people of God may pass through on dry ground into safety. Our debt to John Calvin is considerable. We must be mindful of his work, as God continues to use Calvin's teaching to lead the church to truth and out of the abyss of error.
October 11, 2023
Honestly, I didn't particularly enjoy this book. As much as I'm at one theologically with Calvin in most areas, there are a couple of things that meant I didn't enjoy this book. It is one of these books where a different author has written each chapter, thus leading to little continuity. Often a chapter is taken from somewhere else that the author has written, which is fair enough but when you've read the other source reading it again isn't very worthwhile. Secondly, it's just too long. Near enough 600 pages is fair enough but most chapters are just quote after quote from Institutes or his commentaries or sermons. Long chapters and a long book. It took me a month and a half to read through it and I didn't look forward to the next chapter. I'd find it hard to recommend to somebody unless they're totally unfamiliar with Calvin - but even then I'd direct them to the Little Book on the Christian Life and a short biography like that of Beza or Grier before this book. It's a good book but not one that I particularly enjoyed.
June 9, 2023
Biographical, theological, pastoral and practical. This book is a great primer to one of the greatest, most influential, most misunderstood and caricatured Reformer, and his works. Highly recommend this book before picking up Calvin's Institutes. This book is wholesome in that it is intellectually stimulating but also practically edifying.
The book provides a thorough analysis of Calvin's theological beliefs and corrects a lot of the false assumptions about Calvin that came with the neoorthodoxy in the early 20th century. Furthermore, brings a lot of new scholarly light and broader context into the situation of the Genevan council, which is often used by others to demonise Calvin.
As R.C. Sproul writes at the end of the book, John Calvin's life and works will be crucial for a new Reformation.
The book provides a thorough analysis of Calvin's theological beliefs and corrects a lot of the false assumptions about Calvin that came with the neoorthodoxy in the early 20th century. Furthermore, brings a lot of new scholarly light and broader context into the situation of the Genevan council, which is often used by others to demonise Calvin.
As R.C. Sproul writes at the end of the book, John Calvin's life and works will be crucial for a new Reformation.
August 1, 2023
Audiobook Review
Comprehensive dive into various aspects of Calvin’s life and doctrine. A go-to reference for “what did John Calvin think about…?” covering the Institutes and his various sermons and commentaries.
Once again, I walked away with a greater recognitions of my weakness, appreciation for God’s grace through Jesus Christ, and fired up to worship Him in every aspect of my life and preach His gospel.
Comprehensive dive into various aspects of Calvin’s life and doctrine. A go-to reference for “what did John Calvin think about…?” covering the Institutes and his various sermons and commentaries.
Once again, I walked away with a greater recognitions of my weakness, appreciation for God’s grace through Jesus Christ, and fired up to worship Him in every aspect of my life and preach His gospel.
May 26, 2025
If you’re looking for a more biographical book on Calvin this is not your book. While the first have gives a good history of his life, each chapter is written by different people and they often repeat many things that each other have already said. The second half is just a summary of his institutes, better to just read them directly in my opinion. Definitely going to look for a better biographical study on Calvin.
November 7, 2025
I liked the biographical/historical essays quite more than the theological ones, and unfortunately they make up a much smaller portion of the book. The theological essays erred too far on the side of summary, and ended up feeling like reading a bunch of Wikipedia articles. I do appreciate the clarity and approachability, but was looking for something much deeper and challenging.
Full video review here: https://youtu.be/9-DGHvJkcEg
Full video review here: https://youtu.be/9-DGHvJkcEg
February 1, 2023
Great survey of Calvin's life and teaching. A couple of times I began to be concerned that we were about to light some incense to Saint John of Geneva, but the fanboying was minimal and the work as a whole is as balanced as can be expected from a group of authors so positively impacted by Calvin's legacy.
Well worth the read
Well worth the read
June 3, 2024
I was looking for a book which might provide a more detailed background on the life of John Calvin and his works, and this book did just that. This book outlined the theology expressed through Calvin’s published writings and many sermons while also demonstrating its application throughout his life in a way that humanized him with high esteem and respect.
October 21, 2023
Calvin is even more impressive than I thought. The way that he was a shepherd of the people rather than just a theologian locked away in some room is often lost in conversations about him. Great book, but does get a bit long winded in part two.
March 2, 2024
Very informative and encouraging. It's a good overview of Calvin's teaching, is well written, and truly strengthening to me as a believer.
The only negative I see is that it doesn't look at Calvin very critically. There is no discussion except in passing about Cervetus.
The only negative I see is that it doesn't look at Calvin very critically. There is no discussion except in passing about Cervetus.
June 19, 2023
Better than some in terms of biographical work. After a few chapters it just turns into a quasi-Institutes.
September 7, 2023
Most biographies cover the facts of someone's life. This book goes beyond that. It doesn't you Calvin for his ideas, impact, and identity. Very well done!
October 12, 2024
I expected a bit more biography, but a very able collection of essays that will better introduce you to Calvin.
February 13, 2025
This is a collection of articles on John Calvin from a group of Calvin scholars. The scholarship is top notch. The articles are of mixed usefulness.
December 30, 2020
Important secondary work on Calvin. Contains primary sources that has not been produced before especially Calvin's part in city council.
March 13, 2020
To anyone who is looking for a good introduction to the life, ministry, and theology of John Calvin, this is it. These essays are masterfully written and are abounding with outstanding scholarship. If you get the chance, read it.
November 1, 2019
This is a comprehensive and erudite book about John Calvin. It encompasses his life, his work as a pastor and in his theology. The many -often well known- contributors write about one aspect of John Calvin. Here it is praiseworthy that often more neglected issues are dealt with, for example role of Christ, importance of Holy Spirit and role of faith among others.
Not all contributions are equally easy to understand as it is written for pastors and layperson. Nevertheless, I, as a layperson, found in each chapter something which I learned and the many citations and references to the scripture and Calvins writings make it easier. I found the book a pleasure to read. I also agree with one author that Calvin was in a sense very forward looking as he dealt with several, almost modern, issues.
This is not a book which should be read and then forgotten, it should rather be revisited again and again for deeper understanding.
I found this book enriching and the goal of the editors to have 'a primer and a resource' is amply fulfilled. Therefore, I would recommend it for any layperson who wants to deepen his/her understanding of Calvin and at the same time marvel at the intellectual might of this thinker.
Not all contributions are equally easy to understand as it is written for pastors and layperson. Nevertheless, I, as a layperson, found in each chapter something which I learned and the many citations and references to the scripture and Calvins writings make it easier. I found the book a pleasure to read. I also agree with one author that Calvin was in a sense very forward looking as he dealt with several, almost modern, issues.
This is not a book which should be read and then forgotten, it should rather be revisited again and again for deeper understanding.
I found this book enriching and the goal of the editors to have 'a primer and a resource' is amply fulfilled. Therefore, I would recommend it for any layperson who wants to deepen his/her understanding of Calvin and at the same time marvel at the intellectual might of this thinker.
December 6, 2019
John Calvin by Derek H. W. Thomas is a very solid and interesting book. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to most people, the extensive footnotes mean that anyone who seeks more depth can easily find it whilst the person who wants to skim along the surface will leave each chapter with enough information to keep them going
January 30, 2020
Good collection of essays on Calvin by this group. Was personally more intrigued by Part 1 (The Life and Work of John Calvin) than Part 2 (The Teaching of John Calvin). Part 1 is more biographical and pastoral in nature, while Part 2 is more of an overview of Calvin's theology. Great resource to have.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews