John Calvin's Ecclesiology

This is an excellent book, offering a varied and original range of perspectives on the historical and contemporary interpretation of Calvin's ecclesiology. The book gives an exemplary introduction to some of the ways in which Calvin's ecclesiological ideas have been and might be appropriated and applied. The volume suggests that Calvin offers a theologically profound, Catholic, pastorally concerned and ecumenical ecclesiology. As a reformer, Calvin was concerned with the renewal of the face of the church as a whole, not with the founding of a new tradition. In this sense, his work is part of the inheritance of the all denominations; it is a rich resource for thinking about the Christian life, church-state relationships, ecumenical dialogue, church order, worship and many other of the issues that have been perennial challenges to the churches. It is to be hoped that this book will help Christians of all traditions to an appreciation of Calvin as a fellow pilgrim and a perceptive teacher who has much to say that is of continuing relevance. -- Rev Adam Hood, The Queen's Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education, UK
Much of John Calvin's life and work was dedicated to the upbuilding and unity of the Christian church in Geneva and elsewhere across Europe. Deriving from the quincentenary celebrations in 2009, these essays now provide us with a rich series of reflections on his ecclesiology. They offer a valuable point of reference for further work in this field. -- David Fergusson, Professor of Divinity and Principal of New College, University of Edinburgh