No man is excluded from calling upon God, the gate of salvation is set open unto all men: neither is there any other thing which keepeth us back from entering in, save only our own unbelief.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
But those who wish to prove to unbelievers that Scripture is the Word of God are acting foolishly, for only by faith can this be known.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
Men are undoubtedly more in danger from prosperity than from adversity. For when matters go smoothly, they flatter themselves, and are intoxicated by their success.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
Our prayer must not be self-centered. It must arise not only because we feel our own need as a burden we must lay upon God, but also because we are so bound up in love for our fellow men that we feel their need as acutely as our own. To make intercession for men is the most powerful and practical way in which we can express our love for them.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
We should ask God to increase our hope when it is small, awaken it when it is dormant, confirm it when it is wavering, strengthen it when it is weak, and raise it up when it is overthrown.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
Only those who have learned well to be earnestly dissatisfied with themselves, and to be confounded with shame at their wretchedness truly understand the Christian gospel.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
The excellence of the Church does not consist in multitude but in purity.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
Whoever is not satisfied with Christ alone, strives after something beyond absolute perfection.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
The Lord has not redeemed you so you might enjoy pleasures and luxuries or so that you might abandon yourself to ease and indolence, but rather so you should be prepared to endure all sorts of evils.
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)
The happiness promised us in Christ does not consist in outward advantages-such as leading a joyous and peaceful life, having rich possessions, being safe from all harm, and abounding with delights such as the flesh commonly longs after. No, our happiness belongs to the heavenly life!
John Calvin (French Theologian, 1509 – 1564)