by John Calvin
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Divine Election & Reprobation Explored
Translated into English by John Fielde
"Sermons Concerning Jacob and Esau: Divine Election & Reprobation Explored" by John Calvin explores the profound themes of divine sovereignty, election, and grace as illustrated through the biblical narrative of Jacob and Esau in Genesis 25-27. Calvin, with unparalleled theological depth, examines the covenantal promises of God, showcasing His unmerited favor towards His elect and His righteous judgments. Translated from French to English for broader accessibility, this collection aims to comfort and edify Christians by reflecting on God's inscrutable wisdom and the unsearchable riches of His decisions. Originating from sermons preached by Calvin, this work remains a significant contribution to Reformed theology, emphasizing the importance of faith, perseverance in prayer, and the assurance of God's promises.
Calvin emphasizes that the foundation of the Church and the believer's salvation originates from God's sovereign election, not from human effort or merit. This principle underlines the Reformed understanding of sola gratia (grace alone), where salvation is entirely a work of God's free grace.
This insight encourages believers to rest in the assurance of God's sovereign grace. It offers comfort to those struggling with doubts about their salvation, reminding them that their relationship with God is secured by His initiative and purpose. Pastors can teach on the humility that comes from recognizing our salvation as a gift, leading to a deeper gratitude and worship towards God, who chooses and saves out of His mere good pleasure.
The sermons also unfold the notion that being chosen by God is not for boasting in one's status but for living a life of holiness and gratitude towards God. The election is meant to lead believers into a life that reflects the character of Christ, highlighting the transformative power of God's grace in a believer's life.
Understanding that their election is a call to sanctification can motivate Christians to live lives that are pleasing to God, actively participating in their spiritual growth while depending on the Holy Spirit. Pastors can use this to exhort the church to practical godliness, stewardship of grace, and active love towards one another, as tangible evidence of God's electing love.
Calvin points out that the depths of God's decisions in election and reprobation are beyond human comprehension and should lead us to worship and awe rather than speculation. This mystery underscores the greatness and otherness of God, inviting believers to trust in God's wisdom and justice, even when His ways are inscrutable.
In counseling and preaching, pastors can emphasize the importance of faith and trust in God's character, especially in times of doubt or suffering. By acknowledging the mystery of God's will, believers are encouraged to lean not on their understanding but to trust in the Lord's goodness and sovereignty. This approach fosters a humble dependence on God and a peace that transcends human understanding, as believers are reminded that God's plans are always for their ultimate good and His glory.
Calvin's sermons on Jacob and Esau thus offer rich theological insights for pastoral care, emphasizing the grace of God in election, the call to holiness, and the mystery of divine mercy, all of which are crucial for nurturing a faith that is deeply rooted in the sovereign grace of God.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To the Right Honorable and my very good Lord
The First Sermon Concerning Jacob and Esau - Genesis 25:12-22
The Second Sermon Concerning Jacpb and Esau - Genesis - 25:20-22
The Third Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 25:21-22
The Fourth Sermon of Jacob and Esau, Genesis 25:24-28
The Fifth Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 25:29-34
The Sixth Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 26: 1-5
The Seventh Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 26: 6-10
The Eighth & Ninth Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 26: 11-21
The Tenth Sermon of Jacob and Esau, Genesis 26: 26- Genesis 27:2
The Eleventh Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 27: 3-9
The Twelfth Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 27:13-21
The Thirteenth Sermon of Jacob and Esau - Genesis 27: 31-38
An Answer to certain slanders and blasphemies