Calvin for the World

My friend and former teacher Ruben Rosario Rodriguez joined us to talk about his new book, Calvin for the World.

Show Notes

Summary

In this conversation, Ruben Rosario discusses his new book, 'Calvin for the World,' exploring the enduring relevance of John Calvin's political, social, and economic theology. He highlights Calvin's experiences as a refugee and his advocacy for social justice, drawing parallels to contemporary issues surrounding immigration and refugees. The discussion delves into Calvin's theology of public life, his influence on liberation theology, and the implications of his ideas in modern political contexts, particularly in Latin America and South Africa. The conversation concludes with reflections on how Calvin's teachings can inform our understanding of marginalized communities and the need to differentiate between Calvin's original ideas and later interpretations of Calvinism. In this conversation, Ruben Rosario discusses the complexities of John Calvin's legacy, particularly in relation to urbanization, social welfare, and the infamous case of Miguel Servetus. He emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context and encourages critical engagement with theological figures, advocating for a nuanced approach to reading and interpreting their works. The discussion also touches on the relevance of Calvin's ideas in contemporary society and the need for ongoing reflection and retraction in theological discourse.

Takeaways

• Calvin's experience as a refugee informs his theology.

• The state should be a vehicle for God's kingdom.

• Calvin's theology emphasizes social justice and public life.

• Calvin's ideas influenced liberation theology in Latin America.

• The anti-apartheid movement drew on Calvin's teachings.

• Calvin recognized the importance of cultural diversity.

• Calvin's legacy is often misrepresented in modern contexts.

• Understanding Calvin requires historical context.

• Calvin's doctrine of the imago Dei affirms human dignity.

• Distinguishing Calvin from Calvinism is crucial for accurate interpretation. Urbanization in the Reformation era led to new social issues.

• Calvin's reforms were not innovative but a response to existing problems.

• The case of Miguel Servetus highlights the complexities of Calvin's legacy.

• Historical context is crucial for understanding theological figures.

• Critical reading allows for a balanced view of past thinkers.

• Future generations may look back and question our current beliefs.

• Engaging with historical texts can reveal unexpected connections.

• Theological education should encourage wrestling with difficult ideas.

• Calvin's social welfare initiatives were compassionate and systematic.

• Understanding the mystery of faith is more important than explaining it.

Sound Bites

• "Calvin was a refugee, political refugee."

• "If French blood must be spilled, let it be mine."

• "The state becomes the vehicle for building God's kingdom."

• "Calvin built a whole system of social welfare networks."

• "Calvin did not hold public office."

• "Context is everything, right?"