- 1. The 'Institutes of the Christian Religion' by John Calvin is a seminal work of Reformed theology that was first published in 1536 and has undergone numerous revisions, culminating in the monumental final edition of 1559. This profound text serves as a comprehensive exposition of the beliefs and doctrines that underlie Calvinist thought, emphasizing the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the concept of predestination. Calvin's work is organized systematically, addressing a range of theological issues such as the nature of God, the fall of humanity, the role of Christ as the Redeemer, and the means of grace through the sacraments. With its rigorous logical structure and clear articulation of complex theological ideas, the 'Institutes' not only influenced the Reformation of the 16th century but also laid the groundwork for Protestant theology, impacting countless denominations and theological discussions in the centuries that followed. Calvin's insistence on the necessity of faith and the grace of God in the process of salvation continues to resonate in Christian thought today, making the 'Institutes of the Christian Religion' not only a historical document but also a living testament to the implications of Reformed doctrine for the faith and practice of believers.
Which doctrine is emphasized as central in Calvin's theology?
A) Sovereignty of God
B) Papal authority
C) Free will
D) Transubstantiation
- 2. What does Calvin argue about the role of scripture?
A) It is not necessary for understanding God.
B) It can be supplanted by tradition.
C) It is the ultimate authority in matters of faith.
D) It should be interpreted by the Church hierarchy.
- 3. According to Calvin, how should Christians live?
A) In strict adherence to tradition.
B) In pursuit of individual pleasure.
C) In accordance with God's commandments and faith.
D) By following church leaders blindly.
- 4. What does Calvin say about the sacraments?
A) They are signs of God's grace.
B) They should be regarded as mere symbols.
C) They are essential for salvation.
D) They must include elaborate ceremonies.
- 5. Which city was central to Calvin's Reformation efforts?
A) Geneva
B) Wittenberg
C) Zurich
D) Paris
- 6. Calvin's view on the Lord's Supper is that it is a:
A) Symbolic act only.
B) Ritual without real significance.
C) Spiritual, not physical, presence of Christ.
D) Merely historical remembrance.
- 7. What does Calvin say about civil government?
A) It is ordained by God to maintain order.
B) It should enforce religious law only.
C) It is inherently corrupted and unnecessary.
D) It is irrelevant to Christian life.
- 8. How does Calvin view human nature after the fall?
A) It is totally depraved without divine grace.
B) It is essentially unaffected by sin.
C) It is capable of achieving salvation on its own.
D) It retains the capacity for good.
- 9. What is the purpose of the Christian life, according to Calvin?
A) To attain personal happiness.
B) To glorify God.
C) To gain knowledge and wisdom.
D) To establish worldly power.
- 10. How did Calvin categorize the commandments of God?
A) Into seven distinct laws.
B) As obsolete for New Testament believers.
C) Into three groups: moral, ceremonial, and civil.
D) Into two tables: duties to God and duties to neighbor.
- 11. What does Calvin say about prayer?
A) It is a ritual to be performed without thought.
B) It is optional for Christians.
C) It is only for special occasions.
D) It is essential for communion with God.
- 12. What role does faith play in justification, according to Calvin?
A) It is generally insufficient without the law.
B) It is primarily an emotional experience.
C) It is secondary to good works.
D) It is the means by which we receive Christ's righteousness.
- 13. How does Calvin interpret the Old Testament law?
A) As a historical artifact with no spiritual value.
B) As a guide for righteous living, fulfilled in Christ.
C) As a set of rules with no applicable meaning.
D) As irrelevant to Christians today.
- 14. In which year was the first edition of the 'Institutes' published?
A) 1536
B) 1541
C) 1529
D) 1559
- 15. Calvin's theological system is often summarized by which acronym?
A) FIVE
B) TULIP
C) FORCE
D) GRACE
- 16. Calvin had a significant influence on which movement?
A) The Renaissance
B) The Enlightenment
C) The Reformation
D) The Counter-Reformation
- 17. What significant theological term did Calvin popularize?
A) Predestination
B) Epiphany
C) Incarnation
D) Transfiguration
- 18. Calvin emphasized the importance of which practice within the Christian life?
A) Relics
B) Pilgrimage
C) Prayer
D) Meditation
- 19. Calvin's 'Institutes' were primarily written in which language?
A) German
B) Greek
C) Hebrew
D) Latin
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