John Calvin’s main role in the development of the reformed faith was his influential publications which laid the foundation for what we call the Reformation or the Protestant religion. His Institutes of Discipline laid the cornerstone for what we know as Confession, Articles of Religion, and Anabaptism. These three books were also the foundation of what became the Roman Catholics confession, the Nicene and Post-Nicene Creeds. The Reformation fathers under John Calvin formed the majority of the leaders of the reformed churches.

One of the most important aspects of Reformation doctrine is the concept of sanctification or salvation. The idea that salvation is a free gift from God was a modification of traditional Christian thought under the papacy. Traditional Christians, led by John Calvin saw salvation as something that is achieved through good works by individuals. The unmerited suffering of Christ at the hands of His disciples was seen as an example of this. For John Calvin, salvation is not only a principle of the Gospel but a principle of human dignity as well.

The teachings of John Calvin and his followers were the catalyst for the reformative movement. They taught that salvation is not through our good works but through our faith alone. For Calvin, the end result of faith alone will be heaven. Calvin’s works are essential to understanding the Reformation doctrine and are needed for Reformed worship.

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