“How is it possible to know anything at all?” John Calvin gives his answer to this timeless question in Chapters 1-3 of his Institutes. His theory of epistemology is based on his belief that humans are naturally aware of God. He also asserts two fundamental knowledges- God and self- and he elaborates upon the relationship between the two.
I. Biography of John Calvin
A. Birth and childhood
B. Schooling and further education
C. Early works and accomplishments
II. How is it possible to know anything?
III. John Calvin
A. brief introduction of the Institutes
B. Calvin’s theory of epistemology
1. Humans have a natural awareness of God.
a. our minds
b. nature
2. knowledge of God
a. requires holiness
b. requires knowledge of self
3. knowledge of Self requires knowledge of God
a. man in comparison to God
b. evil vs. good
IV. Conclusion
John Calvin, born in 1509 in Noyon France, played a very significant role in the Protestant Reformation.1 Today Calvin is recognized as one of the most influential persons in the Reformation, aside from Martin Luther. He was born into a family of the Roman Catholic Church in northern Europe, where his father, Gerard, worked for many years in multiple positions in the church, eventually moving into an office under the bishop as his secretary.2 It is no surprise then, that Calvin also became very involved in the church.
Calvin got his education from ...