Calvin, John (1509-1564)
Place of Birth: Noyon, Picardy, France
Occupation: A reformer and theologian
Education: Studied the humanities at U. of Paris
Early Christian Experience: Experienced a dramatic conversion (1533); impressed with God's sovereignty and the necessity of living according to His will
Experience of Persecution: Wrote Protestant-sounding inaugural address for friend chosen rector of U. of Paris; both were forced to leave Paris after vigorous rejection by Catholic clergy
Writings: Went to Basel where he wrote Institutes of the Christian Religion (1536) emphasizing grace
Notable Accomplishments: Settled in Geneva, which he made a church-state, the “Rome of Protestantism”
Influence on Others: His Institutes became the guide for all Reformed churches
