Overview of Calvinism and Distinction from Catholicism

The discussion begins with a critical comparison between the belief systems of the Catholic Church and John Calvin’s interpretation of Christianity. The Catholic Church emphasizes that individuals have a role in their own salvation, which contrasts sharply with Calvinist doctrine.
Calvin’s significant theological position asserts that salvation is predetermined, indicating that individuals do not possess the ability to influence their salvation through their actions. This doctrine is known as predestination.

Calvin’s Doctrine of Predestination

Calvin's primary belief revolves around the concept of predestination, which posits that God has already determined, or predestined, who will be saved and who will not. This belief leads to two groups:

  1. The Elect – Those who are chosen for salvation.
  2. The Non-Elect – Those who are not chosen for salvation.

The Questions of Assurance

A key concern that arises from predestination is how individuals can ascertain whether they belong to the elect. This question leads to rigorous discussions within Calvinist communities regarding the assurance of grace and the workings of God’s will.

Iconoclasm in Calvinism

Calvinism is also characterized by a strict aversion to religious images, known as iconoclasm. Calvinists strongly oppose the use of religious imagery in worship, which is evident in their actions against churches where they strive to eliminate depictions and representations of religious figures.

  • This includes actions like destroying images and effectively whitewashing church interiors to eliminate visual representations deemed inappropriate or distracting in worship.

Representations in Art

  • The discussion includes references to works by artists like Rembrandt, who painted religious themes. In this case, although the painting of an anatomy lesson by Rembrandt is mentioned, it is used to illustrate a point about Calvinists’ perspectives rather than their approval of religious art.

Spread of Calvinism

Calvinism's expansion leads to its establishment in various regions, with key areas of influence being:

  • The Netherlands
  • Scotland (where the Presbyterian Church emerges)
  • France (home to the Huguenots)

Different Calvinist Groups

  1. Presbyterians are identified as Scottish Calvinists, characterized by a governance structure lacking high-ranking bishops and instead utilizing councils of elders.

  2. Puritans emerge as English Calvinists, reflecting a desire for ritual and church reform within the Church of England.

  3. Huguenots are recognized as French Calvinists, who faced persecution and conflict leading to their migration and establishment of churches in places like the Hudson Valley in New York State.

Influence on Religious Conflict

Throughout history, these groups, while embracing Calvinist doctrine, experience significant conflict, often engaging in religious wars, reflecting the deep-seated divisions within Christianity.

The Role of Henry VIII

The discussion transitions to Henry VIII, a pivotal figure in English history, particularly regarding the formation of the Church of England.

  • A notable painting gives a visual representation of Henry VIII during his later years, where he appears wealthy and distinguished, albeit affected by health issues such as gout.

Historical Context

Henry VIII is portrayed not only as a monarch but also as a man who embodied the Renaissance ideals of strength and artistry in early life. He is described as fit and handsome in his youth, where he actively participated in sports like tennis, showcasing a vibrant royal presence.
However, later injuries and illnesses impacted his health, leading to altered behavior and physical degeneration over time.

  • His jousting accident, where he was knocked off a horse, is noted as consequential, leading to long-term injuries that affected his mind and body, alongside the more minor effects of gout.