Psalm 119 Sermon Series #2 (Psalm 119:9-16) by Reformer John Calvin | International Christian Classics

This is John Calvin's second sermon on Psalm 119, John Calvin focuses on verses 9-16, which speak about the importance of cleansing one's way by keeping God's word. Calvin emphasizes the need for inward purity and a sincere desire to obey God's commands. He argues that true righteousness is not just a matter of outward conformity to the law but a genuine desire to please God from the heart. Calvin also stresses the importance of prayer and meditation on God's word in achieving this inward purity. He argues that we should not just read the Bible but should also meditate on it and pray for God's help in obeying it. By doing so, we can deepen our understanding of God's commands and apply them more fully to our lives. Calvin also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in enabling us to obey God's commands. He argues that our efforts to live a righteous life are not sufficient on their own, but must be accompanied by the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Thus, he encourages his listeners to pray for the Holy Spirit's help in overcoming sin and living a righteous life. Calvin's sermon emphasizes the importance of inward purity and a sincere desire to obey God's commands. He stresses the importance of prayer and meditation on God's word, as well as the role of the Holy Spirit in enabling us to live a righteous life. JOHN CALVIN John Calvin (1509-1564) was a French theologian and reformer who played a major role in the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century. He is best known for his influential work, "Institutes of the Christian Religion," which served as a systematic theology for Protestantism. Calvin was born in Noyon, France, and studied law and theology in Paris. While studying, he became influenced by the teachings of Martin Luther and other reformers, which led him to embrace Protestantism. After being forced to flee Paris due to his beliefs, Calvin settled in Basel, Switzerland, where he began writing his famous "Institutes." In 1536, Calvin was invited to Geneva, Switzerland, to help reform the church and establish a new Protestant government. During his time in Geneva, Calvin implemented many reforms in the church and worked closely with the state council representatives. Calvin's theology emphasized the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the authority of Scripture. He also believed in the necessity of living a righteous life and living in accordance with God's law. He was very pastoral and sent many missionaries around the world including France and Brazil. Calvin's influence spread throughout Europe and beyond, with his teachings shaping the development of Protestantism and contributing to the rise of Puritanism in England and America. He is considered one of the most important figures of the Reformation and his ideas continue to have an impact on Christian theology today, particularly the Reformed and Presbyterian churches.