As a major theologian John Calvin is often the subject of widespread misunderstanding and misinterpretation, and this new "Guide for the Perplexed" will provide an ideal introduction to his thoughts and views.John Calvin is a major theologian of the Christian Church, but one who is also the subject of widespread misunderstanding and misinterpretation. He is also a figure whom other theologians either seek to 'capture' to endorse their own (often very different positions) or whom they seek to vilify. His situation in late medievalism is often overlooked. So there is an important need to re-situate Calvin."Calvin: A Guide for the Perplexed" attempts to do this in the context of providing a 'middle level' introduction to his thought. The need for such re-situating will be stressed in the first Chapter, 'Orientation'. As befits the series, attention will be focussed on Calvin's thought, not on his personal character or career, though reference will be made to these as necessary, and the Introduction will include a brief overview of his life and times. Attention will be made not only to Calvin's theological positions, but also to the philosophy intertwined within them, the significance and interest of which is often overlooked."Continuum's Guides for the Perplexed" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material.

As a major theologian John Calvin is often the subject of widespread misunderstanding and misinterpretation, this new Guide for the Perplexed will provide an ideal introduction to his thoughts and views.

About the Author
Paul Helm is J. I. Packer Professor in Theology and Philosophy at Regent College, Vancouver, Canada.

Reviews
"Paul Helm's guide to Calvin's thought provides an ideal beginning for those wanting to tackle the thought of the great Genevan Reformer for the first time - particularly those interested in the philosophical-theological ideas informing Calvin's system. Sure-footed and careful in exposition, and characteristically clear and generous in style, Helm brings to bear his considerable knowledge of Calvin's work in this short introduction. Students and scholars alike will greatly benefit from it." Oliver Crisp, Bristol University, UK
Paul Helm has provided us with a first class introduction to Calvin's thought in all its grandeur and breadth. There is certainly more to Calvin than predestination. He gives us invaluable insight into the nature of biblical revelation, the Trinity, and Christ in his offices of Prophet, Priest and King. His teaching on salvation through union with Christ, and the gift of 'double grace' in him, is especially helpful. What he has to say on living the Christian life is full of practical wisdom. This guide will help the perplexed. I hope that it will also stimulate the reader to get better acquainted with the theological legacy of John Calvin, great Genevan Reformer. -- Guy Davies, The Exiled Preacher Blog
Mention -Book News, February 2009
Helm has the ability to write concisely and accessibly about difficult theological problems. Reading his thoughts on Calvin, I sometimes had the impression that it would have been helpful if Calvin had been able to read Helm. Maybe he would have understood himself somewhat better... These latter remarks are intended to underline the quality of Helm... philosophical-theological introduction to Calvin. -- Journal of Reformed Theology 4



Book Information
ISBN 9780567032027
Author Paul Helm
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint T.& T.Clark Ltd
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 242g