Reconsidering John Calvin

Book Description

This thoughtful exploration invites readers to encounter John Calvin through fresh eyes, moving beyond traditional interpretations to discover overlooked dimensions of his theological vision. Randall C. Zachman creates an illuminating dialogue between Calvin and influential spiritual thinkers across centuries, including Pascal, Kierkegaard, Julian of Norwich, and Karl Barth, revealing unexpected connections and insights.

The book unveils Calvin's profound engagement with astronomy and his invitation to contemplate our place within the vast cosmos. This cosmic perspective becomes a pathway to genuine humility, as readers discover how recognizing our smallness before the infinite can awaken authentic wonder and reverence. Zachman demonstrates how Calvin viewed this astronomical awareness as essential for moving beyond self-deception toward true self-understanding.

Through careful examination, the author reveals Calvin's nuanced approach to judgment and love, particularly through Kierkegaard's insight that love, rather than condemnation, serves as the most powerful mirror for self-discovery. The exploration extends to Calvin's understanding of divine election and the Jewish people's relationship with God, while addressing how the call to love our neighbors can be complicated by human tendencies toward exclusivity and alliance-building.

This scholarly yet accessible work offers spiritual seekers and theology students alike an opportunity to reconsider familiar religious concepts through a more expansive and compassionate lens, encouraging deeper reflection on themes of cosmic humility, authentic love, and genuine spiritual transformation.