This unique book is an introductory guide to the life and theology of John Calvin (1509-64). Calvin's theology has been highly significant as a major expression of Protestant theology. Reformed churches throughout the world appropriate Calvin's theological understandings and find his work provides important insights into Scripture and communicates a vibrant Christian faith. The first part of this book describes events in Calvin's life that helped shape his major work, the Institutes of the Christian Religion. The second part follows the flow of the Institutes and provides a narrative exposition of this major work, with numerous quotations of Calvin's own words. This enables readers to hear Calvin's voice as his views are explained. This close reading of Calvin opens the door to further, more thorough Calvin studies.

Donald K. McKim is Professor of Theology at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, where he joined the Faculty in 1981. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Westminster College (Pennsylvania), his Master of Divinity magna cum laude from Pittsburg Theological Seminary and his PhD from the University of Pittsburgh in 1980. Dr. McKim is the author or editor of six other books and numerous articles and book reviews in the fields of Christian Theology and the History of Christian Thought. He is married to Dr. LindaJo McKim and they are the parents of Stephen and Karl McKim.