John Calvin was one of the later leaders of the Protestant Movement, In this context, the given headings are explained as follows:
(a) Calvin’s Teachings: Calvin insisted upon the strict interpretation of the Bible. He enjoined upon all his followers a strict Code of Conduct. Places of worship were made as simple as possible and many amusements and leisurely activities were forbidden.Calvin’s important teaching was that of the Doctrine of Predestination, which he popularised in his book ‘Institutes of the Christian Religion’. This work was dedicated to the French King, Francis I. The Doctrine of Predestination stresses that it is divinely ordained that God has chosen His own Elect and man’s good works in themselves are not sufficient to ensure the Granting of Grace. God will grant righteousness to those who believe in Him, for it is by the Grace of God that man is saved.
(b) His large Following in Europe: Calvin’s ideas and doctrines spread widely. He founded the University of Geneva. The distinguished scholars, who studied at this University spread Calvinism to Netherlands, Hungary, France, England and Scotland. Calvin’s teachings became the basis of the Presbyterian Church in Scotland. The followers of Calvin were the first English Puritans. “In their zeal for a simple form of Church service”, said Dr. Tickner, “they objected to surplice or fasting, to the use of marriage ring or baptismal cross…… or to music or procession.” Calvin was so intolerant, he persecuted and severely punished those who were free-thinkers and did not agree with his doctrines. The religion, which Calvin established, did not bring religious liberty to Europe.
