John Calvin and the Righteousness of Works

John Calvin's understanding of works-righteousness is more complex than is often recognized, with him affirming it within the context of faith-righteousness and teaching a form of justification by works. He ascribes positive and soteriological value to believers' good works, addressing current debates in Calvin scholarship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 209 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2021
Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co KG

John Calvin's understanding of works-righteousness is often overlooked, as it is more complex than commonly perceived. While he occasionally denounces it, he also affirms it in certain contexts. This study reveals that Calvin embraces works-righteousness when faith-righteousness is already established, and he even teaches a form of justification by works. Calvin assigns not only a positive role to good works in terms of divine acceptance but also soteriological value to believers' good works. This study substantiates this claim by examining Calvin's theological anthropology, his understanding of divine-human interaction, his teachings on the nature of good works, and his understanding of divine grace and benevolence. Additionally, it addresses ongoing debates in Calvin scholarship by exploring topics such as union with Christ, the relationship between justification and sanctification, the connection between good works and divine acceptance, the significance of good works in the Christian life, and the content of good works.

Calvin's theological anthropology is crucial in understanding his views on works-righteousness. He believed that humans are created in the image of God, but are fallen and sinful due to the original sin. However, Calvin also held that God's grace is sufficient to save sinners and that salvation is by faith alone, not by works. This means that while good works are important, they cannot save a person on their own.

Calvin's understanding of divine-human activity is also important in understanding his views on works-righteousness. He believed that God works through both the natural and supernatural means to bring about salvation. This includes the work of the Holy Spirit in regenerating and saving sinners, as well as the work of humans in obeying God's commands and living a righteous life.

Calvin's teaching on the nature of good works is also significant in understanding his views on works-righteousness. He believed that good works are not merely a means of earning God's favor but are a reflection of the believer's faith and love for God. Good works are also necessary for the believer's growth in holiness and for their ultimate salvation.

Calvin's understanding of divine grace and benevolence is also important in understanding his views on works-righteousness. He believed that God is gracious and loving towards all people, and that he desires to save them through his grace. Calvin also held that God's grace is sufficient to cover all of a person's sins and that they can be saved by believing in Jesus Christ alone.

In conclusion, John Calvin's understanding of works-righteousness is more complex than is often recognized. While he occasionally denounces it, he also affirms it in certain contexts. Calvin embraces works-righteousness when faith-righteousness is already established, and he even teaches a form of justification by works. Calvin assigns not only a positive role to good works in terms of divine acceptance but also soteriological value to believers' good works. This study demonstrates such by exploring Calvin's theological anthropology, his understanding of divine-human activity, his teaching on the nature of good works, and his understanding of divine grace and benevolence. Additionally, it addresses ongoing debates in Calvin scholarship by exploring topics such as union with Christ, the relationship between justification and sanctification, the connection between good works and divine acceptance, the significance of good works in the Christian life, and the content of good works.

ISBN-13: 9783525558669