In the Power of the Spirit
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What were Calvin’s final meditations on Christ? In The Power of the Spirit, Banner of Truth presents John Calvin’s 18 sermons on the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). Translated from the French of 1562 by Robert White, these sermons offer profound theological and spiritual reflection on the life and teachings of Christ, synthesizing the accounts of the gospels to present a compelling portrait of the Savior.
These sermons were the last Calvin preached on a New Testament text, marking the culmination of his ministry. They reveal not only his deep knowledge of Scripture but also his pastoral heart and commitment to proclaiming the gospel in a clear, accessible way.
Theological and Spiritual
Calvin’s approach to the gospels is theological and spiritual. He excels at explaining the deep things of God and revealing the realities of the spiritual world, while remaining firmly grounded in the text. He carefully examines the characters in the narratives, paying close attention to their actions and words, and often dwelling on the drama of the gospel story. Calvin highlights important lessons from Christ’s life and draw out significant theological implications.
A recurring theme throughout these sermons is the kingdom of God. Calvin speaks with clarity about the sovereignty of God and His rule and reign over all things, emphasizing that the coming of God’s kingdom. At the same time, Calvin passionately calls for repentance, challenging his listeners to recognize their need for salvation. He champions the free grace of Christ, and while he does not shy away from calling sinners “senseless rebels,” he also points to the hope of redemption found in Christ alone.
Faith and Salvation
Faith and Salvation are central to each sermon. One aspect of his preaching that stood out to me was his emphasis on baptism. Calvin encourages believers to take baptism seriously, understanding it not just as a ritual but as a sign of God’s covenantal grace. He calls Christians to stand guard over their souls, to be vigilant in their faith, and to remain steadfast in the promises of God.
As I read through these sermons, I gained a renewed appreciation for Calvin not only as a theologian but also as a pastor and preacher. His ability to blend theological depth with pastoral care is evident throughout the work, and these sermons offer a window into his heart as a shepherd of God’s people. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your understanding of Scripture or simply wish to hear the gospel proclaimed with clarity and conviction, The Power of the Spirit is a timeless resource that presents Calvin as a lover of Christ and his church.
I received a media copy of In the Power of the Spirit and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.