John Calvin (1509-64) was a key figure in what we now call the European Reformation; but his influence extends to the twentieth century, most notably through the theology of Karl Barth. Outstanding as biblical scholar, preacher and practical Church reformer, Calvin intended all his work to be service of the Word of God. Although couched in sixteenth-century terms, his theology drew on the wealth of previous Christian thinking and possesses an enduring quality which makes it relevant to the situation of the Church today. This book provides a solid and comprehensive introduction to the whole range of Calvin's theology. Concentrating on Calvin's major work, The Institutes of the Christian Religion, it explains what he has to say to all Christians at all times. It leads readers through the text of the Institutes in a new and original way that will give them a serious sense of Calvin both as a Christian and as a thinker.