Critical Review of Simon Kistemaker’s “Calvinism: Its History, Principles and Perspectives"

Kistemaker's booklet has four major sections. The discussion on history has two sections: the biography of John Calvin himself and the development of Calvinism beginning from 16th century until the 20th century.

The summary of Calvin's life story was divided into two periods: development both as a person and as a thinker and years of ministry. Kistemaker noted Calvin's superior intellectual ability in educational engagement. Calvin was also familiar to the world of aristocracy during his younger years. In his university training, he learned the skills in writing and debating. He possessed a legal mind. He was adept in humanistic writings. All these influences prepared him in the formation of a consistent Christian philosophy that molds the mind of succeeding generations. 

Calvin's period of service was not always characterized by warm acceptance. There were times that he was hated. His experience in Geneva testified about this. The reformation brought about by Calvin in Geneva brought changes in matters of polity, worship, and social transformation. His greatest contribution is through the formulation of his commentaries and the Institutes of Christian Religion and the establishment of Geneva Academy. 

The historical development of Calvinism began in 16th century. Kistemaker mentioned Switzerland first. For him, the reformation in that country can be traced from several personalities such as Calvin, Luther, Zwingli, Bullinger, and Beza. Next in line is the reformation in France, which was characterized by intense persecution. The unforgettable St. Bartholomew’s day is remembered as a day of massacre committed against thousands of Huguenots. In Germany, Heidelberg played a very strong influence in reformation. Kistemaker designated the city as the second Geneva. In England, the character of reformation has a unique character. It was more political than religious, and as a result, the Anglican Church was established. In Scottish reformation, John Knox provided the necessary leadership. 

In the 17th century, the most notable events happened in the Netherlands where Arminianism began. Kistemaker asserts that this theology mothered rationalism, deism, and modernism. In England, the role of the Puritans and the Westminster Assembly were the notable features of reformation. In France, the migration of half million of Huguenots due to political oppression brought the weakening of the nation. 

In the 18th century, the turn of events focused on the development in the New England, America. The American Revolution and the Great Awakening were the two momentous events happened in that period. The latter event was led primarily by men of Calvinistic persuasion.

The 19th century in Switzerland signaled the replacement of Calvinism with Rationalism. Voltaire was a popular atheist. Through him, Geneva as the city of God became a godless city. In France, the tide was changed in favor of Protestantism due to the rise to power of Napoleon Bonafarte. The Netherlands during this time produced a man who was used of God to revive Calvinism in the person of Abraham Kuyper.

The 20th century is but a continuation of the previous century and the challenges to Calvinism are still with us. 

The principles of Calvinism center on two dominant themes: the sovereignty of God and sphere sovereignty. God’s sovereignty is affirmed by the fact that God created the entire universe and therefore the existence of God and the authority of his word are inescapable realities in human life. Man can never escape God. God is sovereign in all aspects of life. 

Sphere sovereignty is another form of cultural mandate. Man is ruling this world under God. Jesus is the only legitimate King and Ruler of all things. He is sovereign in “art, science, education, politics, economics, and society.” 

The perspectives of Calvinism are extended elaboration of the principles of Reformed faith. The focuses are on the political task, educational task, and the social task of the people of God. The political task is rooted in the firm belief that even in the field of politics, the authority of God's word must be recognized. The relationship between the church and the state is clearly defined. The duties of the government, of the citizenry and of the Christian community are set forth as mandated by the word of the Lord. In the educational task, the myth of neutrality was dismantled. Christian can never be neutral even in matters of educating their children. Parental responsibility is primary in shaping the minds of their children in the word of the Lord. It is the right of parents to choose the kind of education that would help them to achieve their goals in raising God-fearing children. Hence, the need of Christian schools is crucial. In social task, the community of faith is called to be an agent of change in their society in whatever capacity or in any organization they were involved. 

The book ends with a challenge to utilize all kinds of communication and social functions to propagate the Reformed faith. Both the suffering and the present government of Jesus must be emphasized in our witness both as an individual and as a community. 

The booklet is orderly arranged and the information is clearly presented. For a beginning student of Calvinism, the book serves as a good introduction. It is a good start to acquire basic ideas of what Calvinism is all about. However, if one wishes to appreciate the depths of Calvinism, he must consult other books on Calvinism to have a wider perspective about the subject. The journey might be intimidating at first, but as you move on, you will find it both rewarding and comforting.

Intended Learning Outcome: To have an overview of the history, principles, and perspectives of Reformed theology.

Guide Questions for Discussion:

1. Briefly explain the historical section of the booklet.

2. What are the two dominant principles in Calvinism? Briefly explain each.

3. How about the perspectives of Calvinism? Explain them in your own words.