Creator and Creation according to Calvin on Genesis

by Rebekah Earnshaw

Book cover: Creator and Creation according to Calvin on Genesis

Extent: 229 pages

Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht

Subjects: Religious Studies

Series: Reformed Historical Theology

Series volume number: 64

Language: English

Hardback (Published)

(July 2020)

ISBN: 9783525540831

6.06 x 9.06 inches

Price: $94.00

Out of stock

There are four chapters of theological analysis: The Creator, The Agent and Act of Creation, Creatures, and Providence. Calvin on Genesis gives unique insights into each of these. First, the Creator has priority in Calvin’s thought. Second, the agent of creation is triune and the act of creation is from nothing as well as in and with time. Third, Calvin affirms creaturely goodness and order. The relation of humans and animals illustrates Calvin’s holistic view of creation as well as the impact of corruption and disorder. Fourth, fatherly governance for the church is presented separately and demonstrated by Calvin’s treatment of Abraham and Joseph.


There are four chapters of theological analysis: The Creator, The Agent and Act of Creation, Creatures, and Providence. Calvin on Genesis gives unique insights into each of these. First, the Creator has priority in Calvin’s thought. The Creator is l’Eternal, who is infinitely distinct and abundantly for creatures in his virtues. Second, the agent of creation is triune and the act of creation is from nothing as well as in and with time. This is a purposeful beginning. Third, Calvin affirms creaturely goodness and order. The relation of humans and animals illustrates Calvin’s holistic view of creation as well as the impact of corruption and disorder. Providential sustenance and concursus are closely tied to the nature of creatures and the initial word. Fourth, fatherly governance for the church is presented separately and demonstrated by Calvin’s treatment of Abraham and Joseph. Calvin is a biblical theologian, pursuing what is useful from scripture for the sake of piety in the church.

  • By (author) Rebekah Earnshaw