In today’s reading from John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion (Book 1, Chapter 5, Sections 5–8), we confront the limits of natural reason and the depth of God’s self-revelation in both the human soul and the created order. Calvin argues that the soul’s powers—its reasoning, creativity, moral judgment, and even its activity during sleep—cannot be reduced to bodily function, but bear the unmistakable imprint of God’s image. From there, he moves outward to creation and providence, showing how God’s power, eternity, justice, mercy, patience, and wisdom are displayed not only in the heavens and the earth, but in His ongoing governance of human affairs (Psalm 145:9; Psalm 107; Psalm 113:7; 1 Corinthians 3:19). Yet Calvin presses the sobering conclusion: although God’s works surround us, true understanding requires rare wisdom, for many wander blindly through this glorious theater without recognizing the Creator. This reading challenges us to see that what the world calls chance is, in fact, the careful and fatherly hand of God at work.

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Creation leaves us without excuse, but it does not leave us with clarity—and John Calvin explains why God never intended nature to stand alone as our guide. In today’s reading from Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 1, Chapter 6, Calvin shows that although God’s glory shines clearly in the heavens and the earth, the human mind is too corrupt, forgetful, and inventive to remain anchored there. Without Scripture, we wander into superstition, false religion, and confusion; with Scripture, God gathers the scattered impressions of His majesty, speaks with His own voice, and leads us safely through the labyrinth of error. From the patriarchs to the prophets to the Psalms and the words of Christ Himself, this reading argues that true knowledge of God—whether as Creator or Redeemer—begins, grows, and endures only where God has chosen to reveal Himself: in His Word (Psalm 19:1–9; Psalm 93:5; John 4:22; Romans 10:4; 1 Timothy 6:16).

Readings:

John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book 1, Chapter 6

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